A new article for our newsletter starts this year on membership. Our chair, Christine Donahue will bring you information about this important part of our organization. If you have questions or information to share, please contact Christine at donahueptr@aol.com

As a member of the Staten Island chapter I think you would agree that it is important to maintain and grow membership. Increasing our membership will give the chapter more opportunities to help the community, women, and their families. In numbers, we will increase our visibility and receive additional support on future initiatives. Yes, you can be a part of this goal. Simply!

Invite a friend to one of our events. Send a note with an application asking for support. Discuss how our chapter has been so successful in reaching out to the community. SPREAD THE WORD! As you can read below, membership has so many benefits:

Friendship: Membership brings many rewards but the most lasting and meaningful are the lifelong friendships. Through participation in our many activities and programs, you will form supportive friendships as well as important business relationships. There is nothing quite like the feeling you get in a roomful of powerful women all focused and energized on a common goal. Whether it is laughing together or working together, members know how to have fun and to get the job done.

Opportunity to Serve: The Staten Island Chapter works with the community. Through initiatives that address the needs of women and their families, members experience the fulfillment that comes from giving back to the community. In 2010 the chapter also established the “Sisterhood,” which is composed of 19 local women’s organizations. Each year the organizations unite and approach a pertinent issue with one voice.

Personal Growth and Development: Membership in the chapter ensures continuing personal and professional development. Leadership, public speaking and communication, organization and planning, team-building, fundraising, and teaching are just a sampling of the skills that can be exercised and enhanced through our organization.

Networking: Exchanging ideas, exploring business opportunities, and sharing common goals with other working women is an excellent way to network. These relationships can lead to connections that will help you advance your career or help you to make important career decisions.