Catherine Sopko Background Information
I became involved in The Girls’ Friendly Society when I was five years old. I found GFS as a place that I could be myself, a place where I developed friendships, I learned confidence and the meaning of the GFS motto – Bear Ye One Another’s Burdens.
I was already involved in my church community, but GFS took me to a different level. Our campaign to raise awareness of violence against girls and women, personal hygiene collections for the battered women shelter and many other community service projects has made me truly thankful for what I have and inspires me work for others less fortunate.
Through the years, I have been proud to represent Girls’ Friendly Society, first as the GFS-USA Youth Delegate and now as the Junior Delegate and at ECW National and local events, diocesan conventions, GFS World Council. I had the opportunity to create a program to encourage reading literacy and I visit parishes to encourage them to start a GFS branch. I credit GFS for my understanding that surrounded by the love of Jesus, we can come together and make a difference in our communities and in the world.