Oh, the irony of trick or treating. 364 days of the year we warn our children not to talk to strangers and certainly not to accept candy from someone they don’t know. Yet each year, on October 31st, we send our children out in the dark and encourage them to approach houses illuminated by a porch light to accept treats from perfect strangers. Now how confusing is that to a small child? Sure we carefully peruse their goodies upon returning home but are we searching for pins and poison or do we really want to claim the Reese’s peanut butter cups for ourselves? One might argue it’s a bit of both.
 
Instead of scaring our kids let’s support them by providing safe and nurturing environments at home, in school, and in our communities. Hilary Rodham Clinton, love her or hate her as you will, is well known for her “It Takes a Village” speech made in 1996. A woman perhaps ahead of her time, Eleanor Roosevelt, was known for her many contributions to society as a teacher, newspaper columnist, author, diplomat, and, of course, wife and mother. Although in the public eye she led an interesting life, her private family life was perhaps not necessarily so charmed. Read more about the loss of her parents early in life, her children, her husband’s infidelity, and her support for women in politics at a time when it was unconventional. Both these women, along with countless others to be sure, have contributed immeasurably to child health and safety on a global basis.
 
Although there is much to be done to help children around the world let us start here at home. What can you do to make a difference in a child’s life? Can you volunteer an hour or two at a local nonprofit organization? Perhaps be a coach or mentor to a child in need? Have your children outgrown toys which could be enjoyed by others? Need ideas on getting involved in our community nonprofit organizations? Visit our list of nonprofit agencies in the NEWS Member Directory to learn more.
 
Eleanor Roosevelt was not only a woman of great intelligence and compassion, she was also a woman of great wit. Here are some memorable quotes:
 
“Great minds discuss ideas; Average minds discuss events; Small minds discuss people.”
 
“Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.”
 
“I once had a rose named after me and I was very flattered. But I was not pleased to read the description in the catalogue: no good in a bed, but fine up against a wall.”

Marketing to today’s female consumer is critical to the success of your business. Women are the CPOs (Chief Purchasing Officers) in our society and are likely to buy based on relationships, information, and a positive experience. Do you want to learn more about reaching women’s economic clout and influence? NEWS4Women can help.  Click here to read more in the current issue of the Women’s Journal.