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Women Of Impact: Civic Crusaders
They are Atlanta's civic crusaders. They may not have a cape like Superman (it may be more like a tasteful twin set) Meet six women who believe in helping others and giving back to the community – and they don't mind rolling up their sleeves to get the job done.
October 23, 2007
President John F. Kennedy's words ring as true today as in 1961 when he uttered them. "And so, my
fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you-ask what you can do for your country.)"
And, today, President Bush and retired Gen. Colin Powell talk about the need for volunteerism in
this country.
The messages are the same. We, as individuals, are not the center of the universe. We are put
on this earth to help others, and in a strange way, by helping others we help ourselves. There
aren't that many actions we can do that are as selfish as helping others. That's right – selfish.
When we reach down to help a child, or to comfort a woman who is spending her first night in a
shelter for battered women or simply pass out cake for the holiday party in our kid's homeroom, we
are benefiting. There is a joy in giving and in making things happen. We may say we're giving, but
we're getting just as much back – if not more.
Oftentimes, those who give – the volunteers of the world – get overlooked. But they do an
incredibly important job. From recognizing a need, organizing the troops and making sure the
rewards go to those in need, volunteers are like the Marines, swooping in and getting the job done.
Atlanta Woman magazine salutes our volunteers. From Dorothy Jordan who started Camp Sunshine
25 years ago, to the Girl Scout leaders throughout Atlanta, the contributions may vary in size and
scope – but not in importance.
To those who have ever baked a cupcake for a bake sale, organized a book drive, walked for
breast cancer or oversaw a massive gala, we thank you. Without you, our quality of life would be so
much less.
