The Federated Women’s Institute of Prince Edward Island has adopted a new strategic plan to guide its activities over the next five years. The strategic plan sets out ten goals which were developed by the provincial board of directors.
“Women’s Institute is committed to involve its membership in strategic and dynamic activities to enable us to enrich and revitalize our communities,” said Marie Kenny, WI president. “This organization has long been the focal point of many Island communities, and the new strategic plan will help us to direct our energies and resources to better meet local and province-wide needs.”
Among the new goals adopted by the Women’s Institutes are promoting a greater understanding and appreciation for the importance of the agriculture industry through initiatives such as support for the purchase of local products; the promotion and expansion of creative arts and handcrafts through exhibitions; and increasing awareness of environmental issues through activities such as the annual roadside cleanup and the new partnership with Maritime Electric to promote the use of energy efficient bulbs. Other goals include promotion of issues such as health and safety, legislation that impacts women and children and partnering on literacy initiatives.
“As the nature of our communities continues to change and evolve, so too must Women’s Institutes if it is to remain a relevant and proactive organization,” said Kenny. “Women’s Institutes have long made a positive contribution to so many needs and we will continue to focus on those issues that affect the well-being of our communities and our province.”
Kenny said the strategic plan is encouraging the establishment of new branches in urban, suburban, and rural areas, and existing branches to increase their membership.
It also plans to promote activities that celebrate special events such as tours and gala dinners.
There are currently 112 WI branches across Prince Edward Island with more than 1400 members, the second largest membership in Canada. The first branch was organized in 1911.