Jacqui Gore, President

It is truly an honor to serve as the 2010-2011 President of the Junior League of Odessa, Inc. This outstanding organization has a strong history of tackling vital social issues affacting Odessa families.

From the Odessa Day Nursery to Teen Court to Food 2 Kids, the Junior League of Odessa, Inc., has truly touched the heart of Odessa for over 60 years.

This year, I am pleased to lead the Junior League of Odessa, Inc., as we tackle the issues of hunger, literacy and senior support with our three projects Food 2 Kids, Literacy and Parks Methodist. Our membership of over 350 active and sustaining members, work tirelessly on our community projects and fundraisers to rally around these causes.

This year we have budgeted nearly $200,000 in financial support for our three projects and our Community Assistance Fund. We are able to tackle these issues through proceeds from our successful fundraisers Merry Marketplace and the Blue Denim Cookbook Sales.

As we work in the community this year as JLO members have for over 60 years, we are touching people and making a difference. The Junior League of Odessa volunteers may not completely eliminate issues affecting Odessa families, but we strive to make a difference - one person at a time. What we as Junior League volunteers are doing reminds me of the Starfish Story:

One day an old man walked up a shore littered with thousands of starfish, beached and dying after a storm. A young man was picking up and flinging them back into the ocean.

 “Why do you bother?” the old man scoffed. “You’re not saving enough to make a difference.”

The young man picked up another starfish and sent it spinning back to the water. “Made a difference to that one,” he said.

The Junior League of Odessa makes a difference every day and I am honored to be a part of this team.

Sincerely,

Jacqui Gore

President, 2010-2011

Junior League of Odessa, Inc.