As we kick off the final month of the year, we also want to take time to thank our AWAmazing Armed Women of America VOLUNTEER Chapter Leaders!

That’s right, AWA chapter leaders, close to 500 scattered across the nation, are all volunteers. Some have been serving since the organization was founded in 2013 and some have just stepped in to their new role. Regardless, they all have the heart and passion to help women in their communities gain the skills, knowledge and mindset necessary to be their own self-protectors, beginning with learning to safely, responsibly and competently handle a firearm.

They truly are our “boots on the ground” without whom, the work of the organization to fulfill our mission of enabling women to be their own self protectors would be impossible. It would also be impossible to provide a safe and comfortable environment for women to gather, learn, train, and discuss issues important to women gun owners. They are the reason that our chapters across the country offer a welcoming, non-intimidating place for women to learn more about the safe and responsible use of firearms, including firearms safety, personal protection, concealed carry, mindset and so much more. We are most grateful.

“As we celebrate Chapter Leader Appreciation Month, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you. As both your board president and a fellow volunteer chapter leader, I am continually inspired by the incredible work you do. Every time I see the posts in our leader group, read the stories shared in the newsletter, or review the monthly reports, I am reminded of the profound impact we are making together,” said AWA Board President Michelle Camp, also a volunteer serving on the board, as a state leader and chapter leader to two chapters in Utah.

“As we celebrate Chapter Leader Appreciation Month, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you. As both your board president and a fellow volunteer chapter leader, I am continually inspired by the incredible work you do. Every time I see the posts in our leader group, read the stories shared in the newsletter, or review the monthly reports, I am reminded of the profound impact we are making together.”

Michelle Camp, AWA Board President (also a volunteer)

AWA Chapter Leaders are dedicated, devoted, steadfast, creative, encouraging, inspirational, and caring and they are committed to their growth and development. We are thankful and most appreciative that they have chosen to invest their time and talents with AWA.

Michelle continued, “Your dedication to our mission—to enable women to be their own self-protectors—truly changes lives. In fact, it saves lives. What you accomplish in your chapters and across your states strengthens not only our organization but also the women and families we serve.  The time, energy, resources, and passion you pour into this work are invaluable. Thank you for all you do to champion the vision of Armed Women of America, creating safer communities and empowering women through knowledge and support. Together, we are making a difference!”

Board Secretary, Jamie Green, also a volunteer serving on the board and as a chapter leader, said, “Each time I read through the comments in our Facebook groups, both public and private, I am humbled to read how you support each other and create a haven for all.  It is such a blessing to know the training and support of our members rests in your capable and loving hands.  Thank you all for giving of your time and talents to help them be successful.”

Each time I read through the comments in our Facebook groups, both public and private, I am humbled to read how you support each other and create a haven for all.  It is such a blessing to know the training and support of our members rests in your capable and loving hands.  Thank you all for giving of your time and talents to help them be successful.

Jamie Green, AWA Secretary/Chapter Leader (also a volunteer)

Kari Ramsey, AWA Chapter Finances and Grants Manager, said, “Our chapter leaders are the heart and soul of Armed Women of America. Without the time, sweat, tears, and many other things that they give, this organization wouldn’t exist. I am grateful for and proud of their love and passion for helping women better protect and empower themselves. It truly is something amazing that they have, and this organization has!

AWA Customer Service Associate Monique Stumpf, who assists chapter leaders and members through phone and email added, “I would like to say a huge THANK YOU to all of the AWA Chapter Leaders! You all give so much of yourselves, and I am so grateful to be able to work with each of you on a regular basis. I know how much you all give of yourselves and the commitment that you have made to AWA and the chapters, and I understand the follow through that it takes to honor that commitment. You are all so amazing and our members are truly blessed to have you all! Thank you, AWA Chapter Leaders!

AWA members have also submitted their thanks and those will be shared individually with chapter leaders, but the following is just one example of the appreciation expressed, “Our chapter leaders continue to present us with meetings that expand not only our understanding about firearms, but they give us the confidence to expand our abilities. No question is ever dumb and they take the time to make even the newest members to shooting feel welcome to ask questions. They have turned our group of members into a united family. We all feel that we are growing and we feel compelled to help and include the newer members on their journey also. Thanks be to those who give not only their time, but their talents as well.”

Our chapter leaders continue to present us with meetings that expand not only our understanding about firearms, but they give us the confidence to expand our abilities. No question is ever dumb, and they take the time to make even the newest members to shooting feel welcome to ask questions. They have turned our group of members into a united family. We all feel that we are growing, and we feel compelled to help and include the newer members on their journey also. Thanks be to those who give not only their time, but their talents as well.

Anonymous Chapter Member.

Thank you, AWA Chapter Leaders. We appreciate, admire, honor and adore you!

Jan Ennenga on behalf of your AWA Board, Staff Team and our 5,000 plus members!