When I joined the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) in 2008, I was a newlywed with a busy life, traveling and working long hours. I was not thinking of pursuing leadership. At that time, the JLC was a very large group and I only knew a small handful of people. In order to get to know more people, I decided to attend every event that I possibly could. At one of those events, a sustainer mentioned she thought I would make a good leader and even had an idea of something I might like. Little did I know, this chance encounter would launch me into years of leadership in the JLC. Under her direction, I completed the Willingness to Serve and was asked to serve as the Vice Chair of a committee.
I loved my experience as Vice Chair and then Chair of that committee, as I have loved all my leadership roles in JLC. I have met many great women through leadership and learned that there is not a better way for me to feel connected to this organization and my community. Through leadership I have learned and accomplished so much and gained many skills. I continue to serve in leadership because of the great support and mentorship I receive and it makes me want to provide the same to other members.
I am so thankful that someone discovered the leader in me and now as a member of the Nominating committee, I look forward to discovering the leader in others. The Straw Ballot goes LIVE September 1st and will be open until September 23rd. I encourage active members to take a moment to complete the Straw Ballot when it goes LIVE. Think of all the women you know in the JLC and if you see a leader in them then speak up and encourage them to complete the Straw Ballot or nominate them for a leadership position. Discover the Leader in You and Others!
– Beth Bechhold
