State Public Affairs (SPAC)
A history of advocacy and awareness
Over the last century, individual Junior Leagues have played an active role in educating the public on the pressing issues of the day and advocating for change, legislative or otherwise, on behalf of those who don’t have a voice.
The Junior League of Gainesville’s State Public Affairs Committee (SPAC) strives to educate and take action on public policy issues that impact women and children.
Becker Holland (center) received the Junior League of Florida’s Berta Bleke Award for Outstanding Efforts in Legislative Advocacy. With her are April Tisher (left) and Jenn Garrett (right).
Actions
Bring awareness to the membership regarding current state and local legislative issues related to the JLG’s mission.
Strengthen relationships with local legislators, state legislators and federal legislators by cultivating relationships locally.
Provide opportunities for members to reach out to the community to advocate on behalf of an issue related to the JLG mission, such as cohosting a human-trafficking awareness event with ACCAHT at Santa Fe College and fitting bike helmets for children at our Miracle on Main Street event.
Cultivate relationships with the local school board, as well as county and city commissioners, to educate them on the role JLG plays in the community, by inviting them to events such as the human trafficking symposium or Miracle on Main Street, and providing education and training.
Junior Leagues of Florida Position Statements for State Public Affair Committee (PDF)