Civic Engagement and Outreach

“TRUE PATRIOTISM SPRINGS FROM A BELIEF IN THE DIGNITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL, FREEDOM AND EQUALITY NOT ONLY FOR AMERICANS BUT FOR ALL PEOPLE ON EARTH. ” – ELEANOR ROOSEVELT

The GFWC Civic Engagement and Outreach Community Service Program reminds members that each of us is a part of a larger society and is responsible for undertaking actions that will create a better quality of life and foster a sense of community; locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. The “broad strokes” of this effort include: 1) Citizenship; 2) Crime Prevention, Safety, and Disaster Preparedness; 3) The Needy, Hungry, and Homeless; 4) Our Military Personnel and Veterans and 5) Support and Aid Women Veterans. Below are resources and project ideas to support civic engagement and outreach.

2024-2026 GFWC-NC Civic Engagement and Outreach CSP Chairman: Sherri Seagroves

2024-2026 GFWC-NC Civic Engagement and Outreach Junior CSP Chairman: Heather Massengill

COMMUNITY CONNECTION INITIATIVE: Preparation Saves Lives

Civic engagement is the process of connecting individuals in society with one another, to share common interests, and work for the common good. (www.study.com)

GFWC clubs are encouraged to focus efforts on giving thanks and advocating for the essential workers in the community. Essential workers in the community include many fields of work not only medical care providers and first responders, but also the many 911 dispatchers, teachers, civil service employees, farmers, truckers, utility workers, pharmacy providers, bank employees, delivery services, sanitation employees, and military personnel as examples. To be involved is to care about your community and working with others to make it a more positive place to live, work, and socialize.

Ways in which you can advocate for their efforts on behalf of your community:
• Present a Proclamation for “Essential Workers Week.”
• Deliver food to their place of business.
• Distribute care packages the first of every month.
• Display GFWC “Essential Workers – Keep Our Country Moving Forward” on car windows and mailboxes.
• Throw a neighborhood or community parade and showcase essential workers of all fields.
• Highlight an essential worker in your club’s newsletter and partner with local PR to ensure that the community is aware of these individuals.
• Create signage for your Main Street to highlight the companies and/or individuals who are working to make your community a better place.

PROJECT IDEAS

Educating club members and your local community on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and voting.
Advocate for civics education in schools, ensuring students acquire an understanding of government.
Promoting projects that address crime prevention, safety, and disaster preparedness.
Organizing projects to assist the needy, hungry, and homeless by donating food and necessities at a local food pantry or other support organization.
Work with the VA to determine which active-duty military personnel or veterans to determine who needs household supplies, furniture, or other assistance.
Support and thank local Police and Fire Departments for keeping the community safe. Deliver snacks, cards, or a meal to thank them for their service.
Contribute to Wreaths Across America by sponsoring wreaths or volunteering at Veteran Cemeteries to place or remove wreaths.
Volunteer to work on a much-needed housing project with Habitat for Humanity in your local community.
Support our military personnel through organizations like USO, American Legion and Fisher House.

HISTORY

1945 – A total of 24 fighter planes and bombers were bought by selling war bonds. NC club women sold over 12 million in war bonds and purchased the hospital ship, Larkspur.
1954 – GFWC began Community Improvement Program and offered $60,000 in prizes.
1963 – The Federation Drive for Seat Belts won the Governor’s Outstanding Service Award in the field of Traffic Accident Prevention.
1999 – Supported Special Olympics World Games held in Raleigh.