Washington Island Women’s Club
April 21, 2015, I had the opportunity to speak to the Washington Island Women’s Club. The topic on the agenda was Sweet Mountain Farm. The club was interested in how Sweet Mountain Farm came to be and what we offer. It was a lively discussion about honey, maple syrup, and honey bees. I learned a lot about the club in a few short hours, enough heartwarming information that compels me to share it with you. The curiosity, kindness, and interest shown in learning and supporting Island businesses are top-notch. It was a privilege to speak about my apiary’s start-up.
A women’s club is a non-profit organization or a non-governmental organization however this club is far beyond any casual classification. It is a far-reaching philanthropic effort. Philanthropy is practiced by each member. Much like the story of the five loaves and two fishes, the individual and combined effort keeps giving-and-giving; one woman’s effort multiplied a hundred fold. The club supports many Island endeavors such as painting and redecorating senior housing, sponsoring high school scholarships, supporting the Islands recreational center and performing arts center. The breadth of undertakings is inspiring.
The philanthropy that I experienced while listening and participating in dinner conversation is neighborly help and thoughtful considerations. A historical paradigm to illustrate my point; many years ago, I asked my grandmother about how seniors managed financially before social security. Her answer was clear and plain, “we were neighbors, and we took care of one another.” The Washington Island Women’s Club is just that; neighbors that take care of one another.
The Washington Island Women’s Club fully understands philanthropic work. Philanthropy is all about that value-added service rudimentary to a value system that is simply, human kindness. It is an organization that responds based upon ethical behavior rather than profit motive. Most importantly, philanthropy is traced throughout history and is universal. Every religion has philanthropic references yet Washington Island Women bond here free from political or religious affiliation.
Sweet Mountain Farm did speak on how it came to be and what the farm does, but the bigger, more important, story is all about kindness and people helping people. The meeting itself is considered refreshment and renewal.