Just one year ago a handful of Spovangelites cemented my resolve to start a (mostly) young women’s group called the Spokane Shrinking Violet Society. It is startling what has grown in its place since that time. Hundreds of participants, dozens of lifelong friendships, and nearly 80 events later, we have firmly established what we set out to create: a micro-community, a social co-op, a whatever YOU want it to be, fill-in-the-blank here.
We’ve pumped thousands of dollars back into Spokane’s own local economy, preferencing businesses with sustainable and socially responsible practices. We swapped closets, made our own deodorant, and helped to inspire and support new community groups. We even went on a retreat and drafted a mission statement:
The Shrinking Violet Society is a dynamic social co-op of fresh-minded individuals sustaining creative endeavors. We are dedicated to:
- Promoting Localism
- Building Intentional Friendships
- Affirming Sass & Independence
- Nurturing Artistic Abundance
- Circulating Our Passion
At its core, the Shrinking Violets are a group of people learning to genuinely trust and value each other. Slowing down and taking time to be accountable and present with anyone who seeks out their company. In our crazy-making world this is often easier said than done. But something about the resolve of this group makes it possible. There are no committees, no obligations, and no structure that binds the organization together. It is simply a longing for a functional community in which to contribute and become enriched.
You are invited to celebrate this venture with the Shrinking Violets at our first annual Birthday Bash. Tickets can be purchased online and RSVPs can be made here and on Facebook. Think of it as Spokane’s own Ladyfest.
The event will feature an art show, local vendor fair with over 30 businesses, nonprofits and artisans represented, live entertainment, free child care and delicious home made cupcakes, all in the funky warehouse space at Silver Auctions. We hope you will be able to join us for this special occasion!
Tags: Community · Local Art · Local Fashion · Local Music · Non-Profits · Spokane Pride · Sustainable Development · Young People8 Comments
8 responses so far ↓
Hooray for the Violets!
Congrats on a successful annum, may it be only the beginning.
We need more of this community spirit in Spokane. Way to keep it real and make it real for so many others!
Pre-event booster article from the Inlander:
http://www.inlander.com/content/arts_culture_shrinking_violets_society_spokane
Excellent party coverage from Down To Earth:
http://www.downtoearthnw.com/stories/2010/mar/09/shrinking-violets/
You are a great asset for the community and especially your efforts to bring young adults together.
Thank you also for pushing the envelope when it comes to using social media to communicate. Some of us in my generation are still being dragged kicking and screaming into the world of Facebook, Twitter, texting, etc.!
I am really excited about all the initiatives in the community that will help people become more engaged in elections, public policy and also servant leadership.
Keep up the good work and I hope our paths will cross often in the future.
In depth reporting on our group dynamics by Jennifer LaRue for the Spokesman:
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2010/mar/13/a-blooming-blast/
[...] sure that bright young people were well represented on his campaign team. Then he showed up at the Shrinking Violets Birthday Bash, a social event chalk full of younger folks who weren’t necessarily your usual political [...]
Hi! I’ve been reading the Spovangelist blog (amongst other Spokane-oriented blogs), which linked to your website recently. I’m hoping to join your mailing list? Or get involved somehow?? I’m moving to Spokane next week from Los Angeles and don’t know a soul!! I’m a 29 year-old librarian (very good at book clubs!!) and have lived in the Northwest before (Missoula and Seattle). I’ve always loved Spokane, and this seems like a great way to get involved with a group of other like-minded women!!