Janel Schermerhorn, former President of the American Women’s Club of Berlin, extends warm Thanksgiving wishes to AWC members and reflects on the spirit of gratitude that unites women across continents.
As November settles in, I find myself thinking fondly of my years with the American Women’s Club of Berlin — the laughter that echoed through gatherings, the shared meals, the meaningful conversations that stitched our community together one connection at a time. Though I now write as a former president, my heart remains deeply entwined with the women who continue to make this organization a source of belonging for so many.
Gratitude Across Continents
For many of us Americans living abroad, Thanksgiving has always been more than a holiday — it’s a bridge back home. The scent of pumpkin pie, the chatter of friends gathered around a mismatched table in Berlin, the exchange of family traditions from across the States — these moments remind us that gratitude can take root anywhere.
This season, as members of AWC Berlin celebrate Thanksgiving in their own homes and neighborhoods, I’m reminded of what this community represents: generosity, resilience and the shared joy of women supporting one another in a foreign land. Even when the skies turn a bit greyer and the air a little colder, the warmth of friendship within this club continues to shine.
Building on a Legacy of Connection
I want to send my warmest well wishes to the current president and all members — for your dedication, creativity and the grace you bring to everything you do. The club’s spirit has always been about empowerment through connection: a welcoming space for learning, for laughter and for meaningful exchange. It’s been wonderful to see how that legacy continues to grow and evolve with each new season.
The AWC community has long been a blessing for women from all walks of life — those who arrive in Berlin seeking friendship, cultural understanding and a place to belong. Every shared story, every volunteer effort, every event attended builds on that foundation.
In the Spirit of Thanksgiving
Whether your November includes a home-cooked feast, a cozy dinner with friends, or a quiet moment of reflection, I hope it’s filled with gratitude for the people and experiences that shape your life here in Berlin.
To all of you — thank you for keeping the AWC spirit alive. Your energy, kindness and camaraderie remind us that home isn’t just where we come from — it’s what we create together.
With heartfelt thanks,
Janel Schermerhorn
Former President, American Women’s Club of Berlin
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