Calling on the White House

When Mary Dunphy (left) accepted the job of We Share Foundation Programs Manager, she never imagined it would take her to the White House.

But, by a unanimous vote of the Foundation staff, Mary was elected to head for one of the most famous and prestigious addresses in the world—1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C.—just 10 blocks from the offices of Quota International and the We Share Foundation! Although her task was not to take over the Oval Office of the President of the United States, Mary's mission was nonetheless crucial.

A Priceless Pouch

The official White House staff photographers had agreed to serve as judges for the first-ever We Share Foundation International Photo Contest. But not just anyone could handle the 41 precious entries sent from Quota clubs throughout the world. This was a hands-on task to be trusted to no one less than the best.

Mary and husband Michael Dunphy, a photographer, had mounted and labeled the pictures and accompanying stories with precision, so our top-notch courier knew the priceless nature of the picture pouch.

Even if we had wanted to send it by U.S. mail, judging was set for October 2001, when, sadly, post offices throughout Washington, D.C., were congested with anthrax. Courier companies even winced at the thought of delivering a package anywhere near an important building in the U.S. capital as military planes flew overhead on surveillance in the wake of the September 11 attacks on the Pentagon and the World Trade Center.

“…Should You Choose to Accept It”

Mary and the rest of us knew what had to be done. Deputy Executive Director Nancy Fitzpatrick handed Mary a card that read: "This is your mission, should you choose to accept it…"

Fearing the card might self-destruct in 60 seconds, the brave programs manager, expecting her first child in mere months, knew nothing could curb her dedication to excellence in service. She acknowledged the gauntlet thrown down before her and answered the call to action.

Nancy quickly called the cab that would deliver Mary safely at the gates of the White House. Once Mary and the pouch were ensconced in the back seat, she waved good-bye to her courageous colleague.

Mission (Almost) Impossible

The driver wished Mary luck as she exited his taxi and made her way through security checks to the doors of the President's home. Then, Mary wound her way around the White House…and around it…and around it. She couldn't find the way in, so she wandered the premises with our priceless pouch.

Where, oh, where was the door?

And where was a kindly Secret Service agent to help our expectant mother, bearing images of Quota kindness?

Finally, Mary located Marilyn Jacannan, the head of the White House staff photographers who organized the judging event there. And Mary was invited into the famous residence. "I was really made to feel welcome," Mary says.

Disclosing Valuable Information

Marilyn spent more than an hour with Mary, perusing each of the entries and commenting on the images of Quota service in action. "She asked many questions about the nature of Quota International volunteer service and the goals of our organization," adds Mary.

Mary disclosed valuable information about our impressive Quota membership and the ways that Quota makes a difference throughout the world. And when she returned to the Foundation offices to kudos all around, we knew the adventure hadn't begun to unsettle this steadfast Quota agent.

Move over, Cinnamon Carter. Mary Dunphy's got Washington covered.

—Mary Margaret Yodzis, Senior Writer
© 2002