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Meet Your Neighbor: Laura Weylie
By Callie Thomas
“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.” – Helen Keller
Laura Weylie dreams of possibilities. As a result, the American Sign Language Interpreter has had a helping hand in not only giving those who cannot hear a way to communicate, but she has given other women and children hope, encouragement and the tools they need to make their dreams become a reality.
The Texas A&M graduate put her degree in Early Childhood Education to the test by immediately teaching elementary school in Texas by day and taking classes to learn sign language and interpretation by night. After moving to Las Vegas with husband Brian three years ago, she has made it a full-time profession. Her compassion and commitment has also been put to use in southern Nevada through her involvement with the non-profit organization called the Women’s Club of Summerlin (WCS).
The organization, which was founded in 2001, provides support through volunteer activities and fundraisers to meet the needs of at risk women and children. Weylie has also been instrumental in coordinating the group’s annual charity event. This year’s event benefits the Dare to Dream Grant Program, which encourages women to achieve their goals such as continuing education, starting a new business or skills training to enhance their lives and the lives of others in the community. Each year, the group gives recipients a hand up with up to a $3,000 grant to make their dreams become a reality. We had an opportunity to talk with Laura about her work with the Women’s Club, how it has inspired her own life and why she believes in making dreams come true.
Why did you join the Women’s Club of Summerlin?
“When I first moved to Las Vegas, I decided that since I didn’t know anyone yet, other than my husband, this would be an opportunity to get to know the area, help others and make new friends. Little did I know that I would become a board member just a few months later and eventually the president. I just love being a part of an organization that makes such a positive impact on our community.”
How has WCS assisted the community?
“To date, WCS has donated over $350,000 in cash and items to local charitable organizations with the largest donations coming from annual charity events. The recipients must coincide with the mission and vision of WCS to help needy women and children. Shade Tree Shelter, Child Focus (programs for children in foster care), CHANGE (clothing and personal items for children at Child Haven) and S.A.F.E. House (women and children who are victims of domestic violence) have all been recipients.”
You’re getting ready for the Annual Charity Event this October.
“Yes, the Dare to Dream Grant Program will be the recipient of the fundraising efforts this year to help provide the grants to deserving women. It is on October 18th at the J.W. Marriott. There will be live entertainment, dancing, a raffle and silent auction.”
How has the Dare to Dream Program inspired you?
“It is so inspiring to see the pride and determination in each recipient’s face as they are honored. Their enthusiasm and aspirations about bettering their own lives and others in our community always makes me so proud to be a part of this organization.”
Giving back is important in your life.
“I’ve always been passionate about giving back. As a high school graduate, I received the Community Service Award. What good are our talents and skills if we keep them to ourselves?”
You’ve been instrumental in granting others’ dreams, but what might be one of yours, if you weren’t in your current career?
“I love what I do, but it would be great to have Samantha Brown’s job on the Travel Channel. She gets paid to travel the world, stay in amazing places and experience new things!”
