By Amy Wolff
Charity work is an integral part of life for Jennifer Meyer and her daughter, Reese. For more than five years, they’ve been active members of the Arrowhead chapter of the National Charity League (NCL), each holding leadership positions and winning awards for their hours of volunteer work.
Recently, the Meyers were honored with Congressional Recognition from U.S. Rep. Debbie Lesko for their incredible impact in the District 8 community.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by Congresswoman Lesko for something we enjoy doing together,” says Jennifer. “Being part of the National Charity League has provided countless memories for us and brought us closer together over the years. The amount of intrinsic value and joy we get from dedicating our time to nonprofit groups around the Valley is indescribable. It’s a special time we spend together making memories and filling our hearts. As Reese gets ready to graduate and go off to college, my husband and I hope she continues her charity efforts.”
The ceremony honoring the Meyers was delayed earlier this year because of the governor’s stay at home order to combat the spread of COVID-19. After several postponements, the ceremony took place at the U.S. House of Representatives offices in Surprise last month.
“Receiving this award helps remind me that Reese and I are making an impact with our efforts,” says Jennifer. “I will continue seeking new ways to volunteer on my own when Reese is away at school because every time we volunteer, we leave knowing our efforts have benefited someone in our community.”
NCL has chapters across Arizona providing mothers and daughters opportunities to volunteer with dozens of organizations. The group also helps young ladies become strong, independent leaders who appreciate the value of giving back to those in need.
Each year, NCL requires mothers and daughters to volunteer a minimum number of hours in the community. For two consecutive years, Jennifer and Reese exceeded the volunteer hour requirements for NCL and set a record for the Arrowhead chapter for number of hours served.
Over the years, the Meyers have volunteered with the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree, St. Mary’s Food Bank, and the Back to School Clothing Drive. In 2020, finding volunteer opportunities has been more challenging because of the global pandemic, but many nonprofit groups have worked with NCL to create projects that members can do from home. Examples include Operation Gratitude, which provides comfort items to military service members, and The Kindness Campaign, an organization that provides emotional support tools for kids at home and school.
For more information about the National Charity League, visit arrowhead.nationalcharityleague.org. The Annual NCL Membership Drive takes place from now through January 15, 2021.
