Presidents' Welcome

Benton County Republican Women welcome women from all age groups and walks of life as key players at the political table on national, state and local issues. BCRW are members of the National Federation of Republican Women (NFRW) and the State Federation of Republican Women (OFRW). We are a part of America’s foremost political organization bringing women together to positively impact the direction of our nation. We come together as a collective force advancing the power of women through political access and participation.

The BCRW are active throughout the community using “Caring For America” and “No Child Left Behind” initiatives of the National Federation as inspiration and guidelines As a result, BCRW are currently involved with the “Dictionary Project”. We are in our 6th year of presentations. The number of 4th grade students that BCRW have served is close to 7,000. These dictionaries also stress American citizenship by including a copy of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Stella Guenther is heading this program and the development of a Constitution Center which is now in progress.

BCRW assist young women who need a fresh start in life and in their careers by donating neat, clean business type clothing to the Career Closet where women needing work clothes can find a free wardrobe. Our members also gather a wide variety of items for boxes, which are shipped to our fighting troops overseas. Kay Hunnemuller is in charge of this project. BCRW also supports Operation Homefront. Operation Homefront is a national organization that was set up for the task of helping the families at home state side, but nothing stops them from also providing for our military. Operation Homefront's Oregon President, Dale Clark, is an ever present member of our weekly rallies at 9th & Circle. Our motto is "Land of the Free because of the Brave."

The local chapter of BCRW contribute to three national scholarships for young women. The Betty Rendel Scholarship, The Dorothy Kabis Memorial Internship, and The Nancy Reagan Pathfinder Scholarship. Benton County Republican Women are very active in the OFRW 100% Club Essay Scholarship program. This program is unique to the state of Oregon. Those participating must be senior high school women. The theme for the essay is, "The Constitution-19th Amendment: The History of Women's Suffrage." We are in the seventh year of this program and for the last two years Benton County students have been the recipients of the $1000.00 scholarship prize.

Our monthly potluck luncheon meeting is the fourth Monday of each month. The group meets at the Republican Headquarters at 980 NW Circle Blvd (behind Citizens Bank) and start at 11:30am. Guests are always welcome to hear current speakers on political issues.

Please contact me with any questions you might have.

Louise (Lou) P. Copes
BCRW President 2008-2009