Festival of Trees
by Shirley Holly, NJSFWC President
The Festival of Trees held at Headquarters on November 30th was a great success! There were 14 trees donated, all with different themes. Clubs creatively used the Community Service Programs as inspiration for many of the trees. Arts & Culture, Civic Engagement & Outreach, Education & Libraries, Environment, Historian, and even Advocates for Children were the influence behind some of the theme trees. Several clubs and members came up with a variety of fun themes, such as Ruth Bader Ginsberg, the RGB tree, Headquarters tree, and more.
Forty-four wreaths were made, donated and beautifully decorated the foyer and Board Room. Everywhere you looked there were wreaths hanging which made it easy to visualize how it would look in your own home. This President gave some history behind Headquarters and small group tours were given at both sessions.
Laurel Dobalo, Headquarters Chairman, did an outstanding job, coordinating and bringing to life this President’s vision! Laurel and her committee were so organized. From greeters to hostesses with the food, to check out, every station was manned by a clubwoman. Metuchen Edison Women’s Club, where Laurel is a member, really supported Laurel by volunteering also. Joanne and Cindy – NJSFWC Headquarters Staff – thank you for your work helping club members!
This President would like to thank every club and member who participated. Whether you decorated a tree, wreath, donated food, volunteered your time, or attended the event, you all contributed to the overall success of the event. You, the members, are what make this Federation the outstanding organization it is! I am so proud to represent each and every one of you!
Truly, the best part of this event was the friendships and camaraderie that we talk about so much. One club worked on their tree as a club project. All the ornaments on their tree were hand made and each one different. Every club member made an ornament for the tree. These are the kinds of projects that develop those friendships. We don’t have a final tally on the amount raised, but Laurel has assured me that we exceeded my goal of $1,894! Thank you again to all who participated in some way.
Last Chance to Purchase Festival Tree Items!
Due to an overwhelming response from our members who were unable to attend, we have placed on reserve a limited number of wreaths. These wreaths will be available for viewing and purchase from Monday, December 4 through Thursday, December 7, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Headquarters. Cash, check or credit card, are accepted.
Headquarters is located at 55 Labor Center Way, New Brunswick, NJ, easily accessible from Route 1 or other major highways. Phone: 732-249-5474