Page 15 - California Woman Fall 2022
P. 15

We received special recognition by the California State Assembly via Assem-
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         blymember Laura Friedman, 43  District, in honor of our 100  anniversary.  The
         Federation was also recognized by the California State Senate via State Senator
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         Anthony Portantino, 25  District, for the 100  anniversary.


                   In March 2022, Burbank club member Gloria Salas was recognized as Woman
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         of The Year for the 43  State Assembly District by Assembly-member Laura Fried-
         man, for her stellar community advocacy.


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                   The highlight event of the reporting period was the celebration of our 100
         anniversary.  It was delayed due to the pandemic in 2020 but  fortunately an in
         person gala was held in 2021.  Two-time Past State President Trudy Waldroop com-
         piled our 100 year history in booklet form to preserve our legacy.  It is our hope
         that future members will build on that legacy and bring new skills to encompass
         diversity, global connectivity and human rights advocacy.


                   The Federation has tied programs and projects to the Sustainable Develop-
         ment  Goals.    Historically,  the  Federation  has  emphasized  legislative  advocacy.
         Perhaps due to the pandemic, or because of the age and interests of newer mem-
         bers, community service and support is high on the action agenda.


                   The Burbank club organized a statewide drive to procure backpacks for fos-
         ter  youth  moving  onto  college  campuses.    This  was  prompted  when  members
         learned many foster youth simply move from placement to placement with only
         shopping bags.  In addition, we asked our members to donate school supplies and
         other items to the children of Dominica after they lost everything due to natural
         disasters.  Both efforts related to Goal #4, Quality Education.


                   Public relations and communications are provided via our California Woman
         newsletter.  Thanks to Michelle Husby, Sandy Thompson and Monique Lee for their
         editorial skills.  Our  website, managed by Bev Young and Linda Wilson, provides
         updated information to potential and current members and to interested commu-
         nity members.


                   We are proud to mention the California BPW Education Fund (CEF) which
         provides interest free loans to members and their immediate families.  The loans
         may be converted to scholarships based on certain criteria.  The Fund is supported
         mainly by member donations and has a balance of approximately $25,000.  Three
         women  are  currently  enrolled  in  University  programs  with  the  Fund’s  help.    A
         fourth one has received her degree and is now employed and beginning repayment
         of her loan.  This also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal #4, Quality Edu-
         cation.

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