New Member Etta Hulcher Has a Backstage Pass in Her Community Experience

The Junior League of Washington focuses on literacy as our primary outreach, and JLW volunteers donate their time and talents in myriad ways to organizations like Iona Senior Services, Calvary Women’s Services, Bright Beginnings, National Museum of Women in the Arts, and the Folger Shakespeare Library. These community experiences serve to not only extend a hand into the DC community, but to empower our members as well.  JLW prides itself on building well-rounded leaders and positive role models.

Etta Hulcher, a JLW New Member, experienced the Folger Shakespeare Library Committee’s work through their efforts to help the theatre put on “Sense and Sensibility.” The Folger Shakespeare Library, located on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, is home to the world’s largest and finest collection of Shakespeare materials and two major collections of other rare Renaissance books, manuscripts, and works of art.

The Folger is known for its wide array of scholarly and public programs. These include plays, concerts, literary readings, family activities, and exhibitions, as well as numerous K-12 and college programs for students and teachers.

Folger Committee members usher for a wide variety of performances, including plays, poetry readings, PEN/Faulkner readings, and "Words on Will" lectures about Shakespeare. The committee also volunteers for the annual Shakespeare's birthday celebration at the Folger, which includes a number of games and activities for children and families.

When asked for a peek into her community experience with the Folger Theatre, Etta said, “My New Member community experience was at the Folger Theatre. Luckily, I found out from a new member email that the theatre had extended their showing of ‘Sense and Sensibility’ and needed volunteers! We helped organize programs prior to the show, helped guests to their seats, and helped with concessions. It was particularly exciting to learn that the volunteers are the face of the theatre and truly make the experience for most guests. It was really nice to be able to help make someone else’s evening that much more memorable and special with a positive experience. Not to mention I got to see the extended showing of ‘Sense and Sensibility.’ What a treat! The show was absolutely fantastic and hilarious. I would love to have another opportunity much like that one.”

Etta’s exciting experience is typical of the JLW’s community experiences and volunteer opportunities.  As Junior League volunteers, it is satisfying to know that we can enrich the lives of others while also enriching ourselves.