Despite all of the changes and unpredictability of this year, the Committees on the Community Council have been hard at work developing intentional and impactful programming to benefit the Norfolk and Virginia Beach communities. The month of October was especially busy for the Women’s Initiatives Committee (WIC), who tapped into their passion for mental health to host the Women’s Health Talk: Mental Health in the Time of Coronavirus. 

     Hosted on World Mental Health Day (October 10th), this virtual event brought together mental health experts who discussed the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on our mental health. They also discussed ways people can cope and take care of themselves, as well as community resources for those in need of support. Speakers included representatives from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the Virginia Beach Community Services Board, and local therapists. One of our own League members, Stef Cainto, also joined the group, teaching about mindfulness and leading participants through a guided meditation. 

    WIC’s first virtual panel event was a huge success, with attendees appreciating the opportunity to learn about a very critical and timely topic. Be on the lookout for another Women’s Health Talk early in 2021!

     WIC has also kept busy with their ongoing period packing project, this time partnering with the Girls Scouts of the Colonial Coast for a community service drop-off event. There is still a great need for accessible menstrual products in the communities the League serves, and WIC has remained strong in their commitment to meeting this need. 

     With the help of the Girl Scouts, WIC was able to assemble 400 Ipsy bags packed with menstrual products, which will be distributed to various Norfolk schools and other local groups. The Girl Scouts were so enthusiastic about this project and even had a wait list of girls who wanted to participate! WIC is excited to continue this partnership and plans to open up period packing opportunities for League members in the upcoming months. 

     WIC has much more in store for the rest of the League year, so keep an eye on Digital Cheetah for more upcoming community and training opportunities!