Groundhog Volunteer Hero: Juli Jordan

Our spotlight of gratitude shines this month on the dedicated, hardworking Little River Arts Council President Juli Jordan. And she’s the Groundhog Hero for another reason, but we’ll get to that later.

Juli grew up in Gadsden, Alabama. One evening, she was in town staying at her family cabin when she heard music coming from the Linger Longer Pavilion.

“I heard a band playing and followed it to the Mentone Inn and LRAC’s free summer concert. I couldn’t believe it! I always loved the tour of homes and made a point to be here, not just for the tour but for the art auction. When I officially moved to Mentone in 2020, Kelly Leavitt invited me to join LRAC. I liked what they were up to and spent the first year digging into their history. I think it’s important to learn about the beginnings of an organization and the people that shaped it along the way.”

Juli’s been president of LRAC since 2022. The best part of being involved in the organization, she says, is the people. “We have the most supportive, kind, and creative board members. The Little River Art Gallery has really made our connections stronger and created an opportunity to get to know our wonderful volunteers and artists. LRAC was my way into this precious community. And for that I am so grateful.”

Speaking of groundhogs, the town has a new mascot — the animated and adorable Lookout the Groundhog. Who’s the hero who relishes putting on that costume and engaging with anyone who crosses her path? One Juli Jordan, that’s who!

“Being Lookout the Groundhog is the most fun,” she says. “I never really grew up, so it’s a perfect pastime for a goofball like me.”

Thanks, Juli, for all you do to enrich the lives of so many!