Volunteers are the heart and soul of any volunteer organization, and the League of Women Voters of Alachua County (LWVAC) is no exception. While many volunteers are visible in their roles as leaders, advocates, and organizers, there are also those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the organization run smoothly. These unsung heroes often perform critical tasks essential to the success of the organization. As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, it is important to recognize and thank these dedicated individuals for their selfless service and the vital role they play in advancing the mission of the LWVAC. Without their hard work and commitment, the organization would be unable to achieve its goals and make a meaningful impact in the community.
During this Volunteer Appreciation Week, we thank all of our volunteers and would like to introduce you to:
These are just a few of the volunteers who you may not know but play an important role in LWVAC and the community. If you meet them, be sure to thank them for their service.
What to get involved? info [at] lwv-alachua.org (Contact us)!
Not a member yet? Join today!
Stefanie Gadalean
About
Stefanie is President and founder of UF league chapter. She works tirelessly to ensure encourage others to work alongside her in defending the integrity of the democratic process.
Favorite thing about the League
My favorite thing about the League is how this organization has allowed me to honor my immigrant background by defending the democratic process in our country.
Fun Fact
Stefanie’s cat, Sammy, is named after her favorite founding father, Samuel Adams
Elaine Francis
About
Elaine is a long time member of LWVAC who took on the task dispersing copies of I Can’t Wait to Vote by Tiffany Lanier. She is also a frequent tabler for voter registration and brings a wealth of knowledge about voting procedures to the Voter Services team.
Favorite thing about the League
So many look to us for information, knowing we work very hard to be non partisan. The people I have the honor of working with in the League continue to inspire me with their commitment to serving.
Fun Fact
Elaine trained for many years in Wado Ryu karate and now practices Tai Chi.
Alison Keel
About
Alison is an engaged and active member of our community and wears many hats. From LWVAC public rallies, to the GOTV postcard campaign, and even Voter Services tabling. She is a vivacious volunteer extraordinaire!
Favorite thing about the League
My favorite thing about the League is working with dynamic, smart, dedicated, passionate, tireless, and resourceful members towards a common goal of empowering democracy and informing voters.
Fun Fact
Alison likes baking all types of bread. In particular, it's fun to make animal shapes out of the dough so that we end up with "bunny bread" or "turtle bread."
Kathy Kidder
About
Kathy spearheaded our Returning Citizen postcard effort, which took place in 2 phases. She handled communication with the state League office & worked with 40 participating members to distribute, collect, and mail 4,600 postcards.
Favorite thing about the League
LWV has enriched my days with insights into politics and government, valued friendships, and challenging opportunities to work together for a better future.
Fun Fact
Last October, Kathy realized a lifetime dream - a ride in a hot-air balloon!
Laurie Shorter
About
As a life-long educator, Laurie values and appreciates the League’s focus on voter particularly through Vote411, debates, and forums. She is a vibrant member of the Voter Services commmittee.
Favorite thing about the League
My favorite thing about the League is it’s history. I love being one in the long line of women who value democracy and understand the importance of working to further it in the United States.
Fun Fact
Laurie participates in the Literacy Tutors program of the Alachua County Library system.
Baylee Van Doran
About
President of the LWV at Santa Fe College, Baylee has laid the groundwork for her chapter. She is currently working on a Get Out the Vote video & participated in Lobby Days in Tallahassee along with the Chapter Senator.
Favorite thing about the League
I love the community the League has nourished. Since joining in the Fall, I've never felt more accepted somewhere new than I have with this group! Everyone is so patient and kind, and it makes working with the League so much fun!
Fun Fact
Baylee works at a summer camp where she teaches kids how to sail on sailboats!
