Launches the RJO Foundation 100+ Club
(MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.) – The RJO Foundation debuted the 100+ Club at the Summer Buying Show in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The RJO Foundation 100+ Club is a group of RJO members committed to impact the RJO Foundation Endowment Fund to ensure the Foundation’s continued success. Club members are dedicated to raising money to award scholarships exclusively to RJO member and vendor applicants wanting to further their education in the jewelry industry. The RJO Foundation is proud to have members willing to work together to make real changes for those working within the organization and wanting to grow their knowledge through education.
The RJO Foundation Board of Directors.
To become part of the 100+ Club members make a financial commitment of $200 each year, $100 semi-annually. Members are recognized with a 100+ Club membership window cling to display in their store, acknowledged on special signage at each RJO Buying Show and given a recognition lapel pin to wear or place on their show badge. Currently the 100+ Club has nearly 50 Pioneer Members.
100+ Club Pioneer Member, Kymberlee Setterberg stated: “My husband and I joined the RJO 100+ Club because we wanted to make a difference in our industry. As fourth generation owners, we understand the importance and necessity of jeweler education. But more importantly we understand continuing education takes time and money. Being able to provide a scholarship via the RJO Foundation will allow these individuals to focus on their education by taking away the stress of how to pay for these courses. It’s a win-win! But the best part and reason to join the RJO 100+ Club – it’s super easy! All we have to do is send in a check twice a year, it’s that simple.”
RJO Foundation Executive Director Sarah Streb agrees with Setterberg’s statements. “The RJO Foundation President Mike Pribyl, Cahill-Pribyl Jewelers, first approached me about the idea of the 100+ Club in late 2017. The concept allowed us to easily create a way for our generous members to support the Foundation. In turn we can provide valuable resources to promote continued education and learning in the industry. It is incredibly encouraging to see the dedication of our members and their willingness to help their fellow members.”
Fall scholarship applications are currently being accepted through the Foundation. Scholarship opportunities range from beginning coursework such as diamond and gem identification to advanced work like diamond grading and stone setting to business courses at local colleges or universities. Providing funding for these educational opportunities will help secure the future of our industry by creating a knowledgeable workforce. RJO members and vendors can apply at https://www.rjomembers.com/media/cms/1__Scholarship_Application__Revised_C79CC73D3F972.pdf.
If interested in joining the RJO Foundation 100+ Club please e-mail Connie Miller, connie@rjomembers.com or for more information visit https://www.rjomembers.com/newsletter-preview/388/09AF4D245A0F68B5D2EC85084FBD392C/
Started in 2015, the RJO Foundation has given nearly $18,000 in scholarship funds to almost 40 RJO members. The RJO Foundation supports the advancement of the jewelry industry by providing scholarship to RJO retail owners, vendor owners and their employees.
Visit www.rjomembers.com for more information.
