Wish 25th Celecbration Team Summary
This 125th anniversary year was a time to celebrate yesterdays Women Institutes’(WI) accomplishments, as our team discovered past WI’s achievements and tomorrow’s opportunities for the WI. Our non-WI team member, Patsy, thought “I was already going to join without the Wish project but being part of the Wish really helped me to feel part of the group. I was able to spend more time and make a lovely connection with you ladies. It was fun reconnecting with childhood activities. Great memories”.
Another team member, Myrna of 45+years involved in WI, wrote “I was happy I joined the team and took part in it all. Leaving No Rock Unturned clue was one of the best educational tools we covered and passed it forward to our local Egremont Community School class and teacher. The Lego was fun as we planned and built something that represented WI”. As we went forth and had a beverage in a local establishment, we paid it forward, not a monetary pay forward, but the opportunity to be part of a WI group that inspires and empowers women in a community. Clues were all different but allowed the team to have fun while working and learning together to complete the clue.
As our team researched or worked on a project to complete a clue, we excitedly spoke to co-workers and community members of our activities. There will be positive outcomes for WI membership, as the seeds have been planted and interested community members just need to be encouraged to join some meetings.
Over the last 125 years, children, teenagers, young adults, and adults had the opportunities to benefit and grow through the 4-H programs which were often led and sponsored by WI groups. Senior courses were offered and often led and sponsored by WI members. Each participating member was inspired to reach their potential through the educational programs while having fun and often developing and taking on leadership roles.
The WI leadership throughout the last 125 years, has recognized the importance of having the WI organization, which encouraged and was instrumental in empowering women. Their leadership allows “paying it forward” the opportunities WI provides.
