NAR Peace Garden
The NAR Peace Garden in Memory of Victims of Domestic Violence
Have you “liked” the NAR Peace Garden page on Facebook? If not, go do it! It’s the best way to stay informed of what’s going on there, and to see the latest pictures from the garden. Here is the name of the Facebook page for the NAR peace garden: “NAR Soroptimist Peace Garden in Memory of Victims of Domestic Violence”.
April 18, 2023
After hearing about Soroptimist for some time and wondering what a “Soroptimist” even was, fate had Peggy run into Soroptimist member Paula Austin at another community service group meeting. After connecting and attending a meet and greet for Soroptimist International of Cumberland County, NJ (SICC) (North Atlantic Region), Paula “became a member of what I feel is one of the most life changing decisions that I have made. Paula Austin became more than just my mentor, her and I have a very dear friendship, one that I treasure, and it began because of Soroptimist.”
Peggy has held several positions in her club throughout the 17 years she has been having fun as a member. These include serving as the president, vice president, and chair of several committees. One of her proudest memories while serving is the establishment of their SICC Peace and Tranquility Garden in remembrance of domestic violence victims and survivors.
As Peggy attended district meetings, conferences, and both SIA and SI conventions, her leadership in the organization flourished. She served as district II secretary, director, and governor-elect, and served as governor from 2018-2020 for the North Atlantic Region. Her growth as a leader was supported by friends Paula and Tammy Klotchbach, who guided her and led by example.
“My belief in the mission and the purpose of Soroptimist has given me enthusiasm about helping women and girls that no other organization possibly could have!”
In 2016, Peggy became a Laurel Society member to help further support the Dream Programs that are making a difference in the lives of many women and girls. She is currently at diplomat recognition level and is hoping to earn the ambassador pin this time next year. Peggy also serves on the Dream Big Campaign committee.
“I have made sincere and true friendships. What an experience to meet women with the same passion from my region, women from all over the United States, and I would have never dreamed that I would meet women from all over the world that help women and girls in so many ways!”
— PEGGY GENTILE-VANMETER
Peggy believes in the power of raising awareness and getting involved in public affairs. Soroptimist can be a voice for so many who are treated inhumanely. As a mother and grandmother, Peggy knows she is a role model for them and shares her compassion, empathy, and dedication to helping others with her children and grandchildren.
Now that Peggy knows what a Soroptimist is and does, she loves it! After 17 years, she is still learning every day. Her wish for Soroptimist’s future is growth and expansion to reach the next generations. The stars aligned for Peggy, and now she is instrumental in making dreams come true for the women and girls wishing on those same stars.
Peggy is continuing to elevate her leadership skills by attending SIA’s Leadership Round Table and Leadership Fellows Programs! She believes that “Leaders need to change as the world around us changes.” She is excited to learn more about SIA procedures and be a resource for upcoming leaders with her experience in several Soroptimist leadership positions.
Willimatic: We had so much fun raising money at the Toast to Women Gala. Such a great gathering of people dancing and laughing the night away to raise money for our programs to improve the lives of women and girls. Thank you Shaded Soul Band for the best music and fun, Willimantic Elks for the beautiful venue, Donna Murphy Wallace and her volunteer team for great food, and to Peter Polomski for capturing great memories to share. Our special thanks to President Maryann Gorgone, and Chair Bernice Szafarek and all our volunteers and sponsors for an amazing night. Check out our
website for more pictures coming soon and to see the sponsors and donors that helped make this a rewarding night for our community. On behalf of the women we serve, thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Soroptimist International of Wheeling WV has awarded our Live Your Dream Awards for 2023. The winners are:
$2000 to Crystal Steck
$1500 to Hilary Wurster
Crystal attends the BM Spurr School of Practical Nursing. Hilary is studying business through the SPOKES program and the University of Phoenix. They are now eligible to be considered for additional rewards on the regional level.
The Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award is given to women who provide primary financial support for their family while they continue their education. The award can be used for books, tuition, childcare, transportation, or household expenses. Applications are accepted August 1 to November 15 of each year. In August, we will post the link to the eligibility requirements and the application. Congratulations to the Winners.
Crystal attends the BM Spurr School of Practical Nursing. Hilary is studying business through the SPOKES program and the University of Phoenix. They are now eligible to be considered for additional rewards on the regional level.
The Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award is given to women who provide primary financial support for their family while they continue their education. The award can be used for books, tuition, childcare, transportation, or household expenses. Applications are accepted August 1 to November 15 of each year. In August, we will post the link to the eligibility requirements and the application. Congratulations to the Winners.
Hackettstown organized their first Dream It, Be It session with their local Girl Scout Troop. The girls made Dream Boards, learned about values, and took a career assessment. We were so excited to initiate this program locally.
Indian Rock February Internal fundraiser was a huge success, thanks to the large guest turnout and the wonderful production by television, stage and film actress, Linda Kenyon, with her amazing impersonation of Eleanor Roosevelt! Linda entertained us a few years ago, with her impersonation of Julia Child, and her “Eleanor “ was equally a hit. A huge thank you to Linda; as well as all of our members and guests for being such a great audience.
Women empowering women and girls through education!
SICJC is proud to recognize your continued efforts to reach your educational goals. Congratulations!
Phyllis Matseur, President, presented the award.