GFWC Nebraska Sisters,

I am honored to serve as the 67 th President of the Nebraska Federation of Women’s Clubs. My theme for this administration is “Choose Kindness”. I know that Nebraska Clubwomen choose kindness every day as they support their communities, state, and people all over the world with their generosity. We remind ourselves to “forget not to be kind” every time we recite our Club Collect.  My hope for the theme is that it will remind us of the purpose of our volunteering, and encourage us to spread kindness out from ourselves like ripples in a pond.

At the recent international convention in Chicago, GFWC signed an agreement with its newest Affiliate Organization: the Alzheimer's Association. This could not be more timely as I have chosen Alzheimer's Awareness as my President’s Special Project. Alzheimer’s disease has directly affected my family, and so many more across our state and the world. I am looking forward to seeing what projects the various Nebraska clubs come up with.

Thank you to all of the Officers, Board members and Club Presidents for lending their time and talent to our state organization for these next two years. The state federation does not work without you, and I really appreciate all you do!

I picked up a cute little book, 365 Days of Kindness by Vicki Vrint. In it, the author tells us that,

An act of kindness can transform someone’s day, and its effects may be even more far-reaching – cheering them up when they’re at a low point in their life or inspiring them to pay your act of generosity forward. The good news gets even better: carrying out compassionate acts will benefit you as much as the recipient. Acts of kindness give you a sense of purpose and belonging, and also release feel-good chemicals in the brain, triggering a warm glow of contentment. Kindness and gratitude go hand in hand… By practicing gratitude you’ll get a better perspective on your day. Self-compassion is an important skill that can affect your well-being on every level.

So go ahead and take time for a walk on a lovely day, have that cookie you deserve, or get your yearly mammogram. Choose kindness as you interact with your world, but also be kind to yourself!

Kathy Huggins

Dear Fellow Members,

I am so excited to welcome you to the 2024-2026 administration. I am deeply honored to serve as your 55 th GFWC International President during this pivotal period, in which historic progress can and will be made. I encourage you to take full advantage of the numerous opportunities available to you.

Service and personal development have been central to our mission for 134 years. Through these lies the concept of the "circle of influence"– a dynamic sphere within which our actions radiate outward, touching lives and effecting change. Within this circle, as symbolized on our emblem, we find our power to transform, uplift, and inspire. As members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, each of us occupies a unique position within this circle, endowed with the capacity to enact meaningful change and to leave an indelible mark upon the world.

Under the banner of "Educate, Engage, Empower" let us work to empower individuals from all walks of life, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to shape our future.  Through education, we open the doors to opportunities and encourage a culture of lifelong learning. Increased engagement creates meaningful connections and fosters a sense of belonging. Empowerment encourages others to become catalysts of change, amplifying the scope and impact of our collective endeavors.

As we step into this new administration, our Strategic Plan has been meticulously crafted to guide our focused efforts. Our leaders have prepared an incredible Club Manual, a treasure trove of ideas, tools, and tips for grassroots involvement. Take full advantage of this powerful resource to aid our growth and development.

Together, as we embark on this new chapter, hold fast to the values that define our organization—camaraderie, collaboration, and commitment to changing lives through volunteer service. Celebrate our diverse perspectives and experiences, recognizing that it is through our differences that we find our strength. Our potential for undefined progress is limitless when we unite and advocate with one voice and excellent clarity. Be bold as we reimagine all that GFWC can become.

Together In Living the Volunteer Spirit,

Suellen B. Brazil

GFWC International President