The Communique
GFWC of Holden Beach
Volume 20, Issue 7
Member of the General Federation of Women's Clubs
Kelly Imbody GFWC-HB President kevnkell@hotmail.com
September 2025
Show up. Give of your time & talents. Give what you want, when you want.
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Giddy up gals! We’re back in the saddle again!!!
We moved the contents of our storage unit to a different facility. Many thanks to Cindy Lee and her husband Scott as well as Linda Sturgill, Holly Coleman, Amanda Rollins, Nancy McDevitt, and my husband Kevin. We made short work of it! As a reminder, please remember that your time is valuable and your time is priceless. The members of GFWC-HB are its biggest supporters. Throughout the year various CSPs, Advancement Plans and Special Projects request (prior Executive Committee approval required) various types of collections/donations. I encourage you to pick your passion. DO NOT feel compelled to address every request. No one is keeping track of who brings what. Do what you can. Do what you want. The collection/donation table will be in the foyer…drop off anything you have there. Again, not to beat a dead horse, but your time is valuable. It is enough. We are all volunteers. GFWC-HB is but one part of our multi-faceted lives.
Kelly Imbody GFWC-HB President
STOP Domestic Violence
I hope you all had a wonderful summer with friends and family. Though we technically had the summer off, I did see many of you. It has been a busy summer. The Bylaws Committee chaired by Debbie Yorio got to work reviewing our Bylaws and Standing Rules. Debbie was also busy planning our Summer Social at Le Volte. We had a great turn out and everyone had a wonderful time. Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP got busy planning a great project to help equip the kitchen of the new Holden Beach Fire Station currently under construction. (More on that later!) Jan Allen & the Cape Fear Women’s Club is spearheading a Domestic Violence workshop, and we are helping with that project. (More on that later!) Judi Stankowich and Kandace Hill have been planning the National Day of Service project. (More on that later!) Many of us will be going to the Boys & Girls Home GFWC Day on September 13th. It looks like it will be a fun, exciting and informative day. Hope to see you there! CSPs have been meeting to plan the coming club year which looks to be quite busy and productive.
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Don't miss these Articles
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Message from our President Kelly - page 2
Calendar - page 4
Message from President-elect Debbie - page 5
Message from 1st VP Kandace - page 6
Message from Membership VP Amanda - page 7
September Meeting - page 8
Club Information - page 9
Summer Social pics - page 10
Summer Concert - page 11
LEADS Information - page 12
International Day of Service - page 13
Illuminate to Eliminate - page 14
Domestic Violence 101- page 15
Arts & Culture CSP - page 16
Civic Engagement and Outreach CSP - page 17
Environment CSP - page 18
Education & Libraries CSP - page 19
ESO Corner - page 20
District 7 Fall Meeting - page 21
SER Conference - page 21
GFWC-NC News - page 22
GFWC-NC President's Project - page 23
Message from Karen GFWC-NC President - page 24
Legislative Achievements - page 25
GFWC Signature Program - page 26
The Purple Bag Project - page 27
In Memory - page 28
Final Thoughts - page 29
Club Meeting
Sept 27
Woman's Club of Raleigh Clubhouse Raleigh, NC
Illuminate to Eliminate Domestic and Sexual Violence See page 14
CCWC & GFWC-NC Fall Meeting
Roanoke Hotel Roanoke, VA
SeaScape Club House 700 Lagare Lane (use Construction entrance) 6:15 pm refreshments & Club Chatter 6:45 pm meeting hosted by Civic Engagement CSP
Nov 18
GFWC Day of Service
SER
Holden Beach Chapel 6:15 pm refreshments & Club Chatter 6:45 pm meeting hosted by Education & Libraries CSP
Oct 21
Oct 18
Nov 7-8
Sept 24
GFWC District 7 Fall Meeting
Domestic Violence Workshop Brunswick Community College 3:00-500 pm
Southport, NC 8:00 am
Sept 16
Oct 23-26
Watch out for these events!
Holden Beach Chapel 6:15 pm refreshments & Club Chatter 6:45 pm meeting hosted by Environment CSP
I hope everyone had a wonderful and relaxing summer! The Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee did an excellent job revising our rules. The committee met once by Zoom and were able to agree on several changes in two hours. We will be presenting these recommendations at either the September or October meeting, so please make sure you attend to participate in the process of adopting them. The Summer Social Committee also did an excellent job planning the Summer Social event that was on Sunday, August 17 from 4-7 pm at the beautiful Le Volte Restaurant on Ocean Isle Beach. The weather was perfect, the view magnificent, the food and beverages were delicious and of course, the camaraderie was exceptionally fun! There were 45 members, spouses, and guests that came to enjoy the event.
See page 10 for pictures
Debbie Yorio GFWC-HB President-elect
Kandace Hill GFWC-HB 1st VP
A Year in Monthly Purpose
September breathes resolve—a pledge to heal, Domestic violence faced with hope’s appeal, Civic Engagement helps with lights to shine As we illuminate to eliminate one life at a time. October rustles green beneath our feet, Native plants for our local gardens and yards, Environment’s protection, steady and neat, We learn of North Carolinas natural charm. November turns the page—new wisdom sought, In libraries, education’s lamp is lit, Ideas shared, enlightenment is taught, The mind, well-nurtured, grows bit by bit. December twinkles with the Christmas glow, Members will gather, with food, fun when We celebrate the holiday together once again. January’s art and culture paint the days, Creativity unfolds we’ll see the talent of all A tapestry of stories and displays, Shared with each other, pieces large and small. February calls for justice—coins amassed To honor women’s struggle, shining bright, Their suffrage carved in monument at last, Quarters echoing the march for right. March dances toward the gala’s grand affair, Hope and kindness in each festive stride, Fundraiser joy—community we share, Generosity, our banner and our guide. April leads with leaders, bold and wise, Advancement plans unfurl for all to see, The spirit of committee, goals that rise, In springtime’s light, we shape our legacy. May remembers what has come before, Past presidents return to gently steer, Their wisdom in committee, at the core, And gratitude for every passing year.
Amanda Rollins GFWC-HB Membership VP
Summer is so much fun with sun, sand, lots of company and living life at a (maybe!) slightly slower pace! But as fall approaches there is a wonderful air of excitement as GFWC of Holden Beach begins a new year of service and friendships. Some important information to keep in mind as we head toward our September meeting…. 1. A huge welcome to our newest members Anne Ring and Nicole Denny! Did you know that our club has gained 10 new members in the past year? Each new member brings their own unique talents and ideas to our amazing club and helps us grow in strength and diversity. Please continue to make them feel welcome at meetings, club events and CSP activities! 2. GFWC of Holden Beach is introducing a program of Federation Sisters to promote retention of new members and create supportive relationships with our new members in their first years of membership. There will be more information coming at our September meeting! 3. Our updated Club Handbook will be available mid-September. Think about the ease of having lots of pertinent club information available in one place. A special thanks to Kandace Hill and Lynn Crawford for all their help in this project! I am looking forward to a great year serving our community with the most amazing group of women….GFWC of Holden Beach~!!!
GFWC-HB Handbook
September 16, 2025 SeaScape Clubhouse 700 Lagare Lane (Use Construction Entrance) 6:15 Refreshments & Club Chatter 6:45 Meeting hosted by Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP
Don't forget to bring your light bulbs and quarters if you are collecting them and Wear Purple to the meeting
A presentation by the Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP on Domestic Violence Prevention Update on our handbook and member roster GFWC-HB Bylaws/Standing Rules Review update GFWC Day at Boys and Girls Home GFWC National Day of Service Domestic Violence Prevention Workshop District 7 Fall meeting GFWC-NC State President's Special Project Corporate Champions for Women and Children (CCWC ) and the GFWC-NC Fall meeting in Raleigh Southeast Regional (SER) meeting held in Roanoke, VA
Be at the September meeting to learn about...
September Meeting
Saturday, September 13, 2025 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
September Birthdays
Club Information
GFWC Day
Happy Birthday to:
September – Harvest and Harmony September’s name comes from the Latin “septem,” meaning seven—it was originally the seventh month of the Roman calendar. In the Northern Hemisphere, September marks the autumn equinox, when day and night are again in balance. In many places, September is a time of grape harvests and wine festivals. It’s also when Oktoberfest begins in Munich, Germany, even though the name suggests otherwise. The world’s largest beer festival starts in late September and continues into October.
Members of the Greater Federation of Women's Clubs of North Carolina will gather at BGHNC Lake Waccamaw campus to explore, tour and learn more about the organization that GFWC clubs have supported for many years.
Maureen Wright -- Sep 2 Julie Lopez -- Sep 4 Amanda Rollins -- Sep 12 Kris Thomas -- Sep 13
If you are attending --- have fun!
Members of GFWC-HB and friends supported Brunswick Community College Women's in Philanthropy Dinner for student scholarships.
Did you miss our Summer social?
45 members and guest attended. What a great time we had at a beautiful location. Thanks goes to Debbie and her Committee.
Summer Social cookies donated and made by Raysha, a Shallotte Junior, for everyone in attendance.
LeVolte Restaurant Sunday, August 17
Look at these 2 crazy members taking pictures of each other at the event.
We missed you at the HB Concert
Selling 50/50 tickets
Holden Beach Concert
Many thanks to Gail Clarke, Sandy Bosack, Patti Hogan, Holly Coleman, Pam Foertsch, and Linda Sturgill for selling tickets. Thanks to Kelly Imbody, Ann Landis and Kandace Hill for counting money and separating tickets for the drawing, Thanks also to Julie Lopez and Amanda Rollins for their support.
This was a fundraiser for our club. We met at Bridgeview Park on the Island and sold 50/50 tickets to the Islanders and guest who attended the concert.
We made $238 dollars which will go to a West Brunswick High School student for a Band Booster Scholarship.
Sunday, July 6th 5:45 pm Bridgeview Park
GFWC LEADS Program
Are you interested in LEADS?
GFWC initiated the Leadership Education and Development Seminar, LEADS, for the purpose of finding, training, and encouraging clubwomen from the grassroots level to pursue and accept leadership opportunities in their clubs, districts, and states. GFWC-NC LEADS was developed in 2002 to build upon GFWC’s goal of developing future leaders. Each district sponsors one member to represent them annually at the GFWC-NC LEADS seminar. This year’s seminar is held the day before the opening of GFWC-NC State Convention, LEADS is tentatively scheduled in 2026 for April 23rd. One District LEADS Representative will be chosen to represent North Carolina at the annual GFWC LEADS Seminar. GFWC does assist with some of the costs of attending this program at the national convention in Phoenix, AZ. Members wishing to learn more and develop their leadership skills but who are not necessarily interested in holding an office may attend GFWC-NC LEADS without being considered for selection as an Official District Representative. This seminar is perfect for those chairing committees or holding other leadership positions in the club. Please reach out to Kandace Hill, Kelly Imbody, Debbie Yorio, Diana Tabankin, Holly Coleman all of whom are our most recent representatives or Judi Stankowich, LEADS presenter/instructor if you have questions.
September 27
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) is united in its dedication to volunteer community service. For the third consecutive year, the 2025 GFWC International Day of Service (GFWC IDS), formerly the GFWC National Day of Service, is scheduled on Saturday, September 27. On this day and during the month of September, members from clubs around the world come together on one cooperative focus. The results of what can be accomplished, when a large group of women takes a stand on a single issue, has been staggering. In 2023 and 2024, the focus was on the fight against food insecurity and hunger. This year its focus is to increase public awareness about domestic and sexual violence across the United States and internationally. According to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that between 736 million to 862 million women, aged 15 years or older, have experienced domestic and/or sexual violence. Within the United States, based on research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 16 million people are affected every year. As of August 29th, the total count participating by GFWC comes to: 777 Clubs 41 State Federations 28 Districts 8 Regions 22 National Clubs 4 International Affiliates 879 Total of Registrants * 49 States and DC Represented
International Day of service
Get ready to flip the switch on domestic violence! The GFWC clubs in our area (GFWC Cape Fear Woman’s Club, Southport Woman’s club, GFWC South Brunswick Islands, GFWC Shallotte Junior Woman’s Club, GFWC Shallotte Juniorettes, GFWC of Holden Beach and GFWC North Myrtle Beach) are joining forces for the 2025 GFWC International Day of Service—and they’re lighting up the community in the brightest way possible. Gather your light bulbs, flashlights, lanterns, and night lights—let’s illuminate the darkness! Items will help Hope Harbor Home and Providence Home shine safe and bright. Can’t bring an item? No problem! Shine your support with a donation—write checks to GFWC of Holden Beach. Items can be dropped off at the September meeting or simply call Judi Stankowich or Kandace Hill—the “Light Brigade” to pick them up! But wait, there’s more! GFWC Cape Fear and GFWC of Holden Beach are rolling out the purple carpet for “Domestic Violence 101”—a power-packed event at Odell Williamson Auditorium on September 24, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 pm. Enjoy light refreshments, win a door prize, and be inspired by Karmen Custer of Hope Harbor Home as she spotlights: When Love Turns Violent Early Signs, Red Flags, Reach Out, and Services Available The Three R’s: Recognize, Respond, and Refer Want in on the brightness? RSVP to Teresa Nelson by September 17 to rednelson1@msn.com and let’s shine together! Thank you for being the spark that helps end domestic violence— one light at a time. SEE NEXT PAGE
Lighting the Way to a Safer Tomorrow
Kandace Hill & Judi Stankowich Co-Chairman
Illuminate to Eliminate . . .
Make plans to attend a very informative workshop about Domestic Violence. Bring friends! The Cape Fear Women’s Club along with our help is sponsoring “Domestic Violence 101”
Sponsored by GFWC Cape Fear & GFWC of Holden Beach
This 2-hour workshop will enable us to better understand this issue and be better prepared to Recognize, Respond and Refer. Here’s what you need to do: RSVP by September 17th to Teresa Nelson at: rednelson1@msn.com
Domestic Violence 101 Presented by Karmen Custer, Hope Harbor Home Executive Director
Recognize Respond Refer
Karmen is a graduate of Coastal Carolina University as well as being a graduate of the Wilma Leadership Institute. Hope Harbor Home is Brunswick County’s only shelter for victims of Domestic Violence.
Do You Know the Three R's
Wednesday September 24, 3-5 PM Odell Williamson Auditorium Virginia Williamson Event Center
domestic Violence 101
When Love Turn Violent
This workshop will not only explain how we can recognize Domestic Violence, but also what we can do to help someone who may be experiencing it. Domestic Violence has many different faces, takes many forms and often has a stigma attached to it that prevents victims from reaching out or seeking help.
Early Signs Red Flags Reach Out Service Available
Arts & Culture CSP
Categories range from short stories and poetry, to photography, Artwork, crafts of all sorts, and needlework. The entries need to be created this year from January 2025 to December 2025. The photography categories include : World in Pictures - our world up close (views of tiny images) Natural Wonders (landscape using wide angles, panoramas, and moody photos) Reflections (poignant memories or captures of a fleeting image in a reflection).
The Craft categories include : Crocheting Knitting Quilting Fabric Crafts Upcycling Visual arts in Oil, Acrylic, Pen & Ink and More
These are just a few types of art that you can submit. Get your projects ready to submit.
Ellen Hollis Chairman
The Art Festival is scheduled for our January meeting. January 20, 2026 Our hope is to get more participation from the club.
Civic Engagement and Outreach CSP
Lisa Holmes & Robin Langley Co-Chairman
Abusive relationships involve one person having power and control over the other person. An abuser uses threatening, hurtful words and behaviors to control a partner. Anyone who feels threatened, vulnerable or scared in a relationship needs help. In addition to potentially causing physical harm, domestic violence can lead to many other problems including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can also increase the risk of drug or alcohol misuse. DID YOU KNOW: 1/3 of domestic violence victims are men “Intimate partner violence” is the same as domestic violence The presence of guns in a home where domestic violence is a problem increases the risk of murder by 500% Abusive behavior often stems from a history of trauma A 2022 study of British adults found a strong link between intimate partner violence & self-harm, as well as suicidal thoughts and attempts Domestic violence against men is often under reported due to shame and/or embarrassment Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten 1 in 3 women victims of homicide was murdered by her current or former partner Intimate partner violence accounts for 15% of all crimes 200,000 phone calls are placed to domestic violence hot lines every year
Submitted by Kelly Imbody
Cindy Lee & Pam Foertsch Co-Chairman
Environment CSP
These are tiny plastic particles between 1 nanometer and 5 millimeters in size that have infiltrated our environment, including the food we consume. A 2025 study found that, on average, the human brain tissue contains about 4,800 micrograms of plastic per gram. That’s about the same amount of plastic that you would find in a plastic spoon. Research shows that the presence of microplastics contributes to cardiovascular events, inflammation, immune disorders, and metabolic disorders. To understand where exposure might be coming from, below are common foods and beverages from the lowest to highest measured microplastics per serving. Sea salt; Contaminated because of ocean waters. Instead, use Himalayan pink salt. Beer; likely introduced through contaminated water sources during brewing. Instead, support local breweries that prioritize sustainable practices and use filtered water. Bottled water; the plastic bottle says it all. Instead, opt for filtered tap water in stainless steel containers. Never drink from a plastic bottle if it has been in the sun. Shellfish; since these are bottom feeders, they accumulate microplastics from their environment.Instead, purchase sustainably sourced fish that have lower contamination. Rice; washing rice reduces contamination by 40%. Instant rice contains 4 times more plastic than uncooked. Instead, choose organic and rinse well. Apples and carrots; These are the top contaminated fruits and veggies because of the plastic packaging. Instead, opt for unpackaged fruit and produce.
Submitted by Cindy Lee
More helpful facts to follow in future articles to help you and the environment.
Have you heard about Microplastics???
is the vaccine for violence.
Kandace Hill & Nancy McDevitt Co-Chairman
Submitted by Nancy McDevitt
Domestic violence has a significant and often devastating impact on education. Studies show that education may be affected in the following key areas: Cognitive and Emotional Effects. Children may experience difficulty in concentrating, exhibit developmental delays and behavioral issues in response to the trauma. Academic Performance. Disrupted home environments make it harder to concentrate and retain information leading to lower grades and test scores, frequent absences and increased drop put risk. Social Impact. Unstable home environments may lead to poor peer relationships as trust and social skills may be underdeveloped. Children may experience bullying or being bullied. Long-Term Educational and Career Impacts. Interrupted schooling often means survivors don’t reach their full academic potential contributing to economic security. Schools are often the most consistent support system for children living with domestic violence. Teachers and counselors can play a vital role in identifying signs of abuse, offering emotional support, and connecting families with resources. One of the therapies that may be used in dealing with domestic violence is art therapy. Art therapy is a powerful and non-verbal approach often used with children who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence. It provides a safe space where they can express emotions, process trauma, and begin healing when words are too difficult or overwhelming. Studies have shown that art therapy can reduce PTSD symptoms in abuse survivors, improve emotional resilience and self-worth and offer long term coping skills. Brunswick County offers various domestic violence help services, including emergency shelters and advocacy programs: Hope Harbor Home, DomesticShelters.org, and Brunswick County Assistance.
Education & Libraries CSP
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini tells the story of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives are intertwined by war and fate. It portrays the abuse they endure in their marriages and the strength they find in their friendship.
Epsilon Sigma Omicron (ESO) is an honorary educational society open to all per-capita dues paying GFWC members. The purpose of ESO is to provide clubwomen with a structured reading program, which is educational and stimulates a desire for self-improvement. Are you an ESO member? If not, contact Judi Stankowich to get started. If you like to read, this is for you. The books listed below provide poignant insights into the realities of domestic violence, offering readers a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological impacts on individuals and families. Whether through gripping narratives or complex character studies, these works contribute to the conversation around domestic violence and its effects on society.
Drunkard by Émile Zola depicts the tragic life of an alcoholic laundress in Paris and her abusive husband, exploring the devastating effects of addiction and poverty on family life.
How many have you read?
ESO corner
Submitted by Judi Stankowich
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah follows the Allbright family as they move to the remote wilderness of Alaska in the 1970s. It centers on Leni, who witnesses her father's abusive behavior towards her mother.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty: Set in a picturesque seaside town, this story delves into the lives of three women whose seemingly perfect lives unravel to reveal dark secrets, including domestic abuse.
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins follows Rachel, an alcoholic woman who becomes entangled in a missing person's investigation. The story explores themes of trust, perception, and the complexities of relationships.
GFWC-NC District 7 Fall Meeting
Registration is $25 and includes lunch
Southeastern Region (SER)
Watch for the CALL with specific details
The GFWC Southeastern Region is one of eight regions in the General Federation of Women's Clubs. SER includes: KY, MD, NC, VA, WV, TN & DC
October 18, 2025
The CALL with specific details will be sent on September 8.
Hosted by Southport Women's Club Southport Presbyterian Church 1025 Moore Street
November 7 & 8 Woman's Club of Raleigh Clubhouse
GFWC-NC Fall Meeting
We will be gathering at The Woman’s Club of Raleigh Friday, November 7th from 5-7 pm to honor and recognize the following individuals and companies: Designed for Joy Dr. Antonio Ruiz J. Huffman’s Women’s Boutique NC State Employee’s Credit Union
GFWC-NC NEWS
Corporate Champions for Women & Children
Kandace Hill Chairman
Let’s keep the QuARTers for the Woman’s Suffrage Monument rolling in! Every time you count out those coins, you’re adding $10 to our contribution. We still have our coin purses for just $5. If you’re interested in one, let me know, I will have them at the meetings. But wait, there’s more! Our President’s Special Project has already raised over $18,000 for local arts partners, how wonderful is that? These funds will go to some truly inspiring creative projects in our communities. Does your CSP have a group or community partner who you could partner with? The funds will be distributed throughout the state so your project could win and a donation would be made from you to them.
GFWC-NC President's Special Project
Both contests wrap up in March, so there’s plenty of time to get creative. If you need help or a brainstorm buddy, just reach out to me.
We look forward to gathering this Fall at Club, District, and Region meetings! GFWC-NC’s Corporate Champions for Women and Children (CCWC) on November 7th and the GFWC-NC Fall Conference on November 8th are not to be missed. We are honored that GFWC President-elect Wendy Carriker will be joining us for both events. The CCWC Awards Presentation recognizes companies who have distinguished themselves through their support and assistance to women and children. We have four honorees this year; Designed for Joy, Dr. Antonio Ruiz of Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, J. Huffman, and State Employees Credit Union. Funds raised at the event will go to the CCWC fund, which is used to support activities throughout each two-year administration, and GFWC-NC Leadership speakers, expenses, and the LEADS seminar, held annually at the GFWC-NC Convention. Hosting CCWC the evening before the Fall Conference makes it easier for club women to attend and reduces expenses. Tickets are $75 each. The first hour will include cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, and a silent auction. The Awards Presentation will follow in the second hour. We are thrilled to announce that Anna Laymon, President & CEO of the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation, will be our Keynote Speaker at the Fall Conference! The President’s Special Project Contest supporting the National Monument is on a roll so save the date and your quarters! And new this Fall Conference; GFWC-NC Program Chairmen will host the Volunteers Connection Showcase, an interactive event designed to connect members with community service programs and advancement areas. Stop by and meet your GFWC-NC Chairmen to learn how your time and talents can support meaningful causes and get inspired by the incredible work happening across our state! We will conduct business, the 2026-2028 GFWC-NC nominees for the Executive Committee and Junior officers will be presented, the nominees for the 2026-2028 GFWC-NC Community Service Program Chairman will be presented and elected and… we will have plenty of time to visit with our Federation sisters from across the state. We have much to look forward to as we finish the 2024-2026 administration together on a high note! Be sure to save the dates for the GFWC-NC Arts Festival in Mebane on March 7, 2026, and the GFWC-NC Annual Convention April 24-26, 2026, in Durham, North Carolina. Find your Beat… Join the Rhythm! Karen Throckmorton GFWC of North Carolina President
Message from GFWC-NC President Karen Throckmorton
Historical Legislative Influence Since its founding in 1890, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) has united members in community activism to address pressing social concerns. Through the introduction and support of legislative resolutions, GFWC has played a vital role in shaping public policy and creating lasting positive change. Key Advocacy Areas Literature Ordinances: GFWC has persistently advocated for ordinances that limit the distribution of inappropriate material, such as publications about crime, sex, and horror, particularly those accessible to minors. Global Vaccination Access: The Federation has supported international efforts to improve the availability of vaccines for all. National Parks and Conservation: GFWC has promoted initiatives aimed at preserving national parks and protecting natural resources. Clean Water and Air: Advocacy for universal standards of clean water and air remains a core focus. Grassroots Legislative Action GFWC continues its commitment to grassroots activism by championing legislation on vital issues, including domestic violence, women’s suffrage, veterans’ rights, and vaccination programs. Legislative Efforts in the 118th Congress Rape Kit Backlog: The Debbie Smith Act provides renewed funding for law enforcement agencies to process untested rape kits using advanced DNA analysis. Status: Enacted as H.R. 1105, Public Law 118-72. Online Child Safety: The REPORT Act offers support to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. At the same time, the Project Safe Childhood Act requires coordinated efforts to locate and protect child victims. Status: Enacted as S. 474, Public Law 118-59.
submitted by Donna Geise
legislative Achievements
GFWC Signature Program
At the 2008 GFWC Convention, the membership voted to develop the GFWC Signature Program on the subject of domestic violence. Originally the goal of the GFWC Signature Program was to increase awareness of and help prevent the widespread occurrence of domestic violence in communities across the nation. Clubs across the nation joined forces with programs and projects benefiting survivors of and those affected by domestic violence. We lobbied for better laws, presented awareness programs to increase knowledge, and held fundraisers that benefited domestic violence centers. GFWC created and led education, public awareness, and service projects for club members and local citizens at the community level; collaborated with national domestic violence networks and organizations; supported existing activities and established programs; advocated for victims and survivors; and provided educational opportunities to survivors. As members became more involved in the goals of the project, support and new ideas increased. The Program was renamed: GFWC Signature Program: Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention. Areas of focus include Intimate Partner Violence, Child Abuse, Teen Dating Violence, Campus Sexual Assault, Elder Abuse, Violence Against Native American Women, Military Sexual Assault, and Human Trafficking. The GFWC Success For Survivors Scholarship was created in 2011 to lend a helping hand to those impacted by domestic and sexual violence who are pursuing higher education. The scholarship aims to provide survivors with a means to achieve both financial and personal independence. Since its inception, GFWC has awarded more than $97,500 in scholarship funds.
Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention
GFWC aims to be and is a powerful voice for victims and survivors.
Driven by Crown Royal’s ethos of generosity, The Purple Bag Project was born, turning their iconic purple bags into care packages for soldiers and veterans, reminding them of their support and thanks. Together with Packages from Home, their national charity partner, The Purple Bag Project has become a token of appreciation for those serving our country. Since 2010, they have packed and distributed over 1 million purple bags (and counting) to soldiers and veterans, providing them with essential care and comfort from home. They’re continuing the commitment to supporting military heroes with the goal of packing 2 million bags by 2030. You can be part of this project - it’s easy, FREE, and fast. Follow the link and fill a bag with your choices - Crown Royal buys the items, fills the bags, and sends them to our soldiers. You can include a message or not. I included the words: Thank you for your service from GFWC of Holden Beach, a group of women who appreciate your dedication to keeping our country free. Do it once a day or more. I did it five times today and it took less than five minutes. Share the idea with others. Keep track of how many you do so we can report it. If you would like me to track your participation, drop me an email and I will. Click on the words below to go directly to the website location and start today. https://pack.crownroyal.com/
submitted by Judi Stankowich
The purple bag project
Elene Busch
Elene McGee Busch, 81, of Holden Beach, NC, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, and raised in Fountain Inn. Elene was married to her best friend and soulmate, Henry Rudolf Busch, Jr. for 50 wonderful years. Together, they built a legacy of love, faith, laughter, travel, and a spirit of community that touched everyone around them. A lifelong educator, Elene devoted her career to teaching math and science to middle and high school students in Delaware, Virginia, and North Carolina. In retirement, she and Henry operated Fantasy Isle Ice Cream and Mini-Golf, continuing their tradition of nurturing and guiding youth through summer employment, friendship and example. She gave selflessly, always striving to brighten the lives of others. Energetic and spirited, Elene embraced every moment with joy. She was an active member of the Holden Beach Chapel, serving on multiple committees and organizations, singing in the choir, and playing hand bells. Elene was very active in our Woman's club. She was a charter member (2007) and held the position of Chaplain five times, club photographer and much more. She was also active in Arts, Education and Environment CSP. Her warmth, wisdom, and boundless generosity will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her. A celebration of life service will be conducted on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Holden Beach Chapel. A reception will be held following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Holden Beach Chapel, 107 Rothschild St., Holden Beach, NC, 28462.
With deep sadness, we share that Juanita Martin Bryant, beloved GFWC International Past President (1982–1984), passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 15, surrounded by her devoted family. Juanita was a guiding light in the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, known for her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering commitment to service. Her leadership left an indelible mark on GFWC, inspiring generations of clubwomen to lead with purpose and heart.
Juanita Bryant
We will miss you . . .
Prevention begins with empathy, action, and the courage to listen. By breaking the silence and building networks of support, we can dismantle cycles of violence and nurture futures full of dignity and hope. Remember that every story matters, and every person deserves a life free from fear.
Final Thoughts . . .