In a networking session last Thursday evening, Rochester Women’s Club Co-Presidents Marsha Hartley and Nancy Boutin reviewed the club goals accomplished in 2011. Completing two-thirds of an ongoing roofing project was first on the list.
“We plan to finish the back part of the roof this year… We’re proud of the fundraising and community work we’ve done so far,” said Ms. Hartley.
The meeting recapped some of the community service efforts, including helping a local family by purchasing, wrapping and delivering toys and clothing. Gift certificates to a local grocery store and restaurant were also provided. “We’ll do it again in 2012,” said Ms. Hartley.
The club sends get well cards to locals who are ill, provides a place for the Girl Scouts to meet, took a trip to Boston, sold Rochester afghans (only two left), had a pie sale and appeared on ORCTV to give Season’s Greetings to friends and neighbors.
“This year we’re planning a breakfast for our veterans,” said Ms. Boutin. The group plans to make soup, to take out, on Sundays.
Following the business meeting, a networking session followed, with women speaking about their business and answering questions raised by the group. Jane Taylor, a long time club member spoke about her career as an early childhood coordinator in the ORR School District. Ms. Taylor’s career evolved into a consultant for game brands Milton Bradley and Parker Brothers’. “You’ve got to put it out there,” said Ms. Taylor, ”think about what you want to do.”
Ms. Taylor said she was inspired by the book What Color is Your Parachute, which helped direct her in branching out from her former position into a new and exciting area of children’s books and toys.
Asta Muldoon handed out “dream books” and talked about her financial consulting business. “Older men dominate this business… I want to work primarily with women,” said Ms. Muldoon. The book presented questions about retirement activities and asked readers to project where they wanted to be in 10, 15 and 20 years. “It’s a way to ask you what makes you happy, and there is power in writing it down… once you write it down, you’re more motivated to save for that outcome,” said Ms. Muldoon.
Ms. Hartley and Ms. Boutin own a cleaning business using natural household products. Ms. Hartley also teaches pilates and yoga. Ms. Hartley told the group that she was recently certified by the Arthritis Foundation and plans to work with seniors to improve strength and flexibility. “I’m passionate about it and see what it can do for people to improve their daily lives,” said Ms. Hartley.
“I think this is a great way to connect,” said Robin Martin, a manager of a local bank. “I’ve learned a lot about some of our members tonight.”
The club plans another networking session in March.
The club meets on the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm at the clubhouse located on Route 105 near the town center. Dues are $20 per year and new members, from any town, are welcome. For more information, contact Marsha Hartley at 508-322-0998.
By Joan Hartnett-Barry
