What to Expect: Joining NCL

The 2012-2013 school year has been my first as a ticktocker. I had never heard about the National Charity League before this past year. As a sophomore, I joined three years later than most members do and I'm the only ticktocker in my high school so this gives me a pretty unique perspective. I'd been engaged in service projects before and loved the experience, so when I heard about NCL I was immediately interested.

As a new ticktocker, I had a vague idea of what I was getting into last spring. Being introduced to the other ticktockers, I had an overwhelming feeling of intimidation- I felt completely inadequate to be a part of an organization like this. Every member seemed to be so beautiful, confident, friendly, and sophisticated. It looked to me like everyone's hair was perfect and everyone knew exactly what to say. Even though everyone was nothing but nice to me, I felt embarrassed. At the same time, it made me excited to belong to this group. If I stuck with NCL, would I end up like these girls? 

Well, after nearly one year of working in NCL, I've learned a few things. NCL isn't some kind of debutante making-machine. It's an organization that encourages girls to challenge ourselves in new ways. You have to put in the work and effort yourself to learn from the experience. It takes self-initiative and a dedication to fit into your own schedule. You have to step forward, volunteer, speak up and voice your own opinions. You have to choose when and how you're going to contribute to and learn from your community on your own time. You have to incorporate what you learn into your life instead of leaving it at the doorstep after a meeting.

So far, I've had an unbelievably positive experience with NCL. It's drawn me closer to my mom and sister and taught me so much about my community. I've been so grateful for the opportunities to serve and the feeling that I get when I do. NCL isn't something to put on your resume, or some kind of step-by-step how-to on becoming Miss USA. It's an experience and lifestyle that I hope stays with me for the rest of my life.

February General Meeting- What'd you miss?

Ticktockers and patronesses who arrived early at the February general meeting got the opportunity to assist in a TLO project for Primary Children's Hospital arranged by Ticktockers Avery and Sarah.

In the meeting, we got the opportunity to hear a presentation by Madi Palmer on Backyard Broadcast, a youth movement to spread awareness and prevention of child trafficking. She shared great information on how to stay safe and inform others, as well as how to start a chapter of Backyard Broadcast at your own school.

Click this text to go to the Backyard Broadcast home page, learn more about their mission, how to apply, and specifics.

If you see more of their mission, check out this video- a survivor's story of a young woman who now works with Backyard Broadcast promoting their cause.

Hope to see you all at the March general meeting!