Volunteers 2,376 Hours In 2018-19
With the volunteer logs submitted and fundraisers complete, the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield (JWL) has reported the results of its 2018-2019 league year, during which it donated more than $24,500 to community organizations and volunteered more than 2,376 hours toward the betterment of Johnston County.
“Through our two signature fundraisers, Touch-A-Truck and Big Night Out, we were able to give $8,500 to the Miracle League of Johnston County and $15,000 to Smithfield Rescue Mission,” stated Kelly Blanchard, VP of Fund Development. “Through our Letters from Santa initiative, we were also able to give $1,050 to Interfaith Food Shuttle to sponsor Backpack Buddies for three Johnston County children for an entire year.”
“JWL members volunteered throughout the year in many different ways, whether assisting with the construction of Habitat for Humanity homes, as baseball buddies for Miracle League players, packaging food for Backpack Buddies, assisting with Interfaith Food Shuttle’s mobile market, and at events like 5Ks and galas hosted by our partner organizations,” stated 2018-2019 VP of Community Outreach & Engagement Austin Yansom. “When you consider that volunteer time is valued at $25.43 per hour, that’s an additional more than $60,000 impact that JWL has had on Johnston County since August 2018.”
Outside of the hours volunteered, members have also contributed in other ways, including school supply and coat drives for the children at My Kid’s Club, the donation of items for families that Me Fine Foundation is serving, and providing food for the women and children at Harbor and the clients and visitors at the SECU Hospice House.
“Our members have worked tirelessly this year to meet the needs of the community,” stated Cat Webster, 2018-2019 President. “However, we must also thank the many individuals and businesses in our community who have supported our efforts by attending our events, stepping up as sponsors or donors, and wholeheartedly embraced JWL and its mission.”
JWL is accepting applications from prospective new members
ages 22 and older who have an interest in serving Johnson County until August 1. For more information about joining the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield, please visit www.jwlsmithfield.com.
