Draft:Thanks 1

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Original Thanks! Plain and Simple, Inc.™ Formation: June 16, 2006 Founder: Anne Montague Type: Charitable Organization Tax ID no.:  421684691 Legal Status: 501(c)(3) organization Purpose: To Unify Americans to complete needed projects Headquarters: Charleston, WV Region Served: National/International President: Michael Kindred Executive Director: Anne Montague Main Organ: Board of Directors Website: https://americanrosiemovement.org

Thanks! Plain and Simple, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established in June 2006, recognized by the US IRS. Since 2008, its primary focus has been on honoring and working with women who contributed to the home front during World War II, commonly known as Rosie the Riveter, although they prefer to be referred to as "Rosies". The organization aims to illuminate the real stories of these women's lives, guided by the standards they upheld, and to leave lasting records of their contributions. This endeavor is undertaken through collaborative efforts with Rosies and various partners, with projects ranging from small-scale initiatives to nationwide endeavors, mirroring the incremental efforts of the Rosies themselves.

The American Rosie Movement™

The culmination of the efforts led by "Thanks!" and its partners has resulted in the establishment of The American Rosie Movement™, a national and international initiative. Unlike movements centered on blame or protest, it encourages public participation in projects of varying scales, often at the local level, which collectively contribute to a broader national effort. The movement strives to foster cooperation and continual improvement, with the aim of long-term impact and community empowerment. Anne Montague, the founder of "Thanks!", emphasizes the importance of collective action, stating that the goal is not to boast about being first but to set an example for collaborative achievement.

Mission

The mission of "Thanks!" is to initiate projects deemed essential for America and execute them to such a high standard that they attract widespread participation. This inclusive approach welcomes diverse participants, including students, educators, veterans, project managers, civic organizations, persons of color, seniors, and religious institutions. The sectors involved encompass nonprofit organizations, government entities, for-profit enterprises, educational institutions, and the military. Notably, "Thanks!" operates as a service-oriented entity rather than a membership organization, serving both the general public and interest groups.

History

Earliest work:  2006–2008 - Training Veterans to Create Projects

"Thanks!" initially focused on training veterans to conceptualize and manage projects addressing pressing needs within America. However, the organization's direction shifted when it became evident that a crucial project lay in recognizing and honoring the contributions of America's Rosies in more comprehensive ways. Early interactions with Rosies underscored their pride not only in their wartime efforts but also in the unity and collaboration they fostered. Thus, "Thanks!" transitioned from training veterans to amplifying the stories and legacies of the Rosies, reflecting their ethos of collective action and resilience.

2008-Present: Developing the American Rosie Movement™ in Three Phases

Each interview with a Rosie revealed a wealth of unexpected insights and stories, such as those of the Magliano sisters who ventured alone to coastal Virginia to join the ranks of the Rosies and encountered Italian prisoners of war. As "Thanks!" delved deeper into these narratives, it became evident that the Rosies' experiences were not only diverse but also emblematic of a shared commitment to unity and cooperation in service of a common goal – the pursuit of freedom.

Early interactions with Rosies highlighted the collaborative nature of their work, transcending geographical, cultural, and ethnic boundaries. Many expressed a desire for their legacy to reflect their collective efforts and dedication to producing high-quality work. Recognizing the intricate coordination required for the wartime efforts on the home front, "Thanks!" acknowledged the need for meticulous planning and coordination in preparing for the American Rosie Movement™.

In response, the organization embarked on a structured approach, dividing the development of the movement into three distinct phases. This deliberate strategy aimed to ensure effective coordination and preparation, mirroring the meticulous planning that characterized the efforts of the Rosies during World War II.

Phase I.  2008 – 2019: Learning from Rosies and Many Partners

• 2008:The organization conducted an interview with Garnet Kozielec, a Rosie whose riveting work on airplane wingtips in Michigan and California coincided with her fiancé's activities repairing the same planes in France.
• 2009 to 2011: "Thanks!" produced a documentary film titled "We Pull Together: Rosie the Riveters Then and Now," featuring 31 Rosies recounting their diverse roles during the war, including piloting airplanes, inspecting lenses, and manufacturing essential supplies.

• 2012: Rosies were instrumental in designing and opening a park dedicated to their contributions, leading to the designation of Memorial Day as Rosie the Riveter Day by the West Virginia State Legislature. The planting of a dogwood tree, symbolizing the Rosies, further commemorated their legacy.

File:Rosie the riveter Park.jpg

Rosies chose the oval as the focus of the park because an oval represents democracy. Two years after this photo was taken in 2012, the marker was installed.

The Rosie Park Dogwood Tree, planted on July 4th, 2010, within the Rotary Park in St. Albans, WV, holds profound symbolic significance as a tribute to the contributions of "Rosies" and veterans during World War II. Initiated by the Rosies themselves and supported by Medal of Honor recipient Hershell Woodrow "Woody" Williams, the tree represents resilience, unity, and gratitude. Its delicate yet resilient nature mirrors the courage and perseverance of those who worked tirelessly on the home front and served on the front lines. As a living symbol of remembrance, the Rosie Park Dogwood Tree stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of sacrifice and service, ensuring that the stories of Rosies and veterans are honored and remembered for generations to come.

• 2013: The first government building in America was named after a Rosie, and a permanent display of art glass depicting a Rosie working on the railroad was installed in Huntington, West Virginia. Initial plans were drafted for the three-phase development of the American Rosie Movement™, culminating in the establishment of a national monument.

• 2014: Anne Montague, the founder of "Thanks!", delivered a speech at the WWII Memorial in Washington, DC, while Girl Scouts initiated the tradition of ringing bells for Rosies in Glenville, WV, later evolving into the national and international Ring a Bell for Rosies event on Labor Day.

• 2015: Collaborative events with the Netherlands, including embassy-hosted gatherings and meetings with the Dutch royal family, highlighted international recognition of the Rosies' contributions. Additionally, Rosies participated in ceremonies at the WWII memorial in Washington, DC.

• 2016: Projects initiated during this year began to be replicated across different locations, alongside efforts to locate Rosies of color throughout the United States.

• 2017: Rosies embarked on a second trip to the Netherlands, attending events at the Freedom Museum and participating in memorial unveilings. Recognition of Rosie contributions extended to national platforms, including the National Association of Manufacturing's Step Ahead awards.
• 2018: Cultural tributes included a performance by the Philadelphia Girls Choir and the expansion of the Ring a Bell for Rosies event to four countries. "Thanks!" also visited the Presidents’ Church in Quincy, MA, on Labor Day.
• 2019: Labor Day celebrations included a gathering at the Taft Carillion near the US Capitol, with speakers from the Mayor's office and two Rosies in attendance.

Phase II.  2020 – 2025: Launching the American Rosie Movement™

• 2020: "Thanks!" facilitated the addition of Rosies to the U.S. Department of Labor's Honor Roll of Labor History Leaders, with a representative speaking on behalf of all Rosies.
• 2021: An event at the National Naval History Museum honored Rosies over 100 years old who served in government offices during WWII, with Bill Kammer as Master of Ceremonies.

• 2022: The first school room in America named for Rosies was established at Gilmer County Middle and High School, with a celebration attended by Wiel Lenders, Ph.D., Director of the Freedom Museum in the Netherlands. The Rosie Summit convened approximately 40 individuals who contributed to the American Rosie Movement™.

• 2023: The annual Ring a Bell for Rosies event in Philadelphia was hosted by the Chapel of the Four Chaplains, with participation from Mexican and Dutch consulates and Girl Scouts from multiple states.
• 2024: "Thanks!" is actively documenting the collaborative endeavors of its partners, locations, and projects, with a primary goal of raising awareness and encouraging widespread participation. Multiple books are currently in progress to further illuminate the movement's achievements and aspirations. One such ambition includes the establishment of a Rosie trail's spanning across several states, symbolizing the enduring legacy and impact of Rosies nationwide.

Phase III.  2025 into the Future

With the help of old and new partners, "Thanks!" hopes to create feature films, books, and articles about different Rosies and the projects they and many others have helped to complete.  The goal of Phase III is to continuously improve the process of guiding people to unify by creating community projects that fit into a larger whole.

Summary of Work since 2008

• Beyond 2025: "Thanks!" aims to produce feature films, books, and articles showcasing different Rosies and their contributions, while continuously refining the process of guiding communities to unite through collaborative projects. The goal is to perpetuate the spirit of cooperation and collective action championed by the Rosies for generations to come.

Projects

• "Thanks!" has spearheaded approximately 20 projects, each designed to be replicable by diverse groups across different communities.
• Examples of projects include naming spaces for Rosies, planting dogwood trees as symbols of endurance, creating original Rosie-themed music, installing public displays, and commissioning murals.
• Transparency about both successes and challenges is emphasized to facilitate learning and progress.

Events

• The organization has orchestrated various events, including the grand opening of a Rosie park, ringing bells for Rosies annually, working with the interdenominational Chapel of the Four Chaplains in Philadelphia, and gatherings hosted by embassies or consulates.
• Rosies have been honored through ceremonies at national landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Arlington National Cemetery.
• Collaborations with international partners, including trips to the Netherlands and meetings with foreign dignitaries, have highlighted the global impact of the Rosie legacy.

Awards

• "Thanks!" has recognized individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to the Rosie movement, spanning diverse sectors and regions. Awards have been conferred to entities such as cities, schools, civic leaders, and community organizations for their sustained efforts in promoting Rosie's legacy.
• Montague has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the West Virginia Woman of the Year by Gannett Publishing, recognition as a Distinguished West Virginian, and the Martin Luther King Award for her dedication to celebrating diversity.

Other Accomplishments

• Over 180 Rosies have been interviewed, contributing to a rich archive of oral histories and testimonials.
• The organization has collaborated with over 50 Rosies to plan and execute projects, leveraging their expertise and experiences.
• Initiatives include the creation of lesson plans, the production of original music and artwork, and the documentation of Rosie-related activities through photography and videography.
• Educational efforts have extended to securing trademarks, copyrights, and developing curricular materials approved by state educational departments.

Organizational Structure and Strategy

The American Rosie Movement™ is a grassroots initiative driven by in-kind and volunteer contributions, underscoring the readiness and capability of individuals to initiate Rosie projects within their communities and connect them on a national and international scale. Participants often echo the sentiment, "The whole is greater than the sum of its parts!", recognizing their collective efforts as part of a unified, meaningful, large-scale endeavor.

The movement operates within a three-phase structure outlined by the "Thanks!" initiative, offering a flexible model for diverse participants to cultivate a nationwide effort qualifying as a "movement". Despite the extensive literature on movements, the question of how people can collaboratively construct positive initiatives across various boundaries remains largely unaddressed.

The three phases of the movement are as follows:

Phase I (Past Work): The initial phase focused on laying a robust foundation for the movement, involving the identification, engagement, and creation of projects with Rosies. Concurrently, the initiative aimed to assess internal strengths and weaknesses while identifying external opportunities and threats.

Phase II (Present Work): This phase entails ongoing efforts across diverse locations, with projects increasingly visible to the public and leaders. The incorporation of ideas and initiatives from the public is integral to this phase.

Phase III (Future Work): Post-2025, "Thanks!" will evaluate past achievements and future prospects in collaboration with other stakeholders. The primary objective will be to refine the process of unification, fostering collective human potential.

In contrast to traditional protest-oriented movements, The American Rosie Movement™ emphasizes constructive creation within a nationwide framework, showcasing the collective achievements possible through unity. Moreover, the movement distinguishes itself by prioritizing long-term cooperative actions and project management alongside historical preservation.

Key findings since the movement's inception in 2008 highlight five essential factors driving individual and community participation. Notably, storytelling emerges as a potent tool for connection, encompassing both the captivating narratives of Rosies' lives and the evolving stories shaping the national movement.

The movement's strategic plan involves continual adaptation to accommodate expansion, drawing upon diverse expertise as needed. Despite potential changes, the enduring power of storytelling to foster connections remains a constant, as recognized by leading experts.

While the headquarters of "Thanks!" is anticipated to remain in West Virginia, the collective knowledge and experiences of collaborators worldwide will continue to guide initiatives in numerous locales.

Challenges: "Thanks!" acknowledges the various challenges it faces in transitioning to a full-scale social movement and outlines strategies to overcome these hurdles:

1. Collaboration with Potential Partners: Building alliances with like-minded organizations is crucial for amplifying the message of unity. "Thanks!" aims to collaborate with partners who share its vision and can contribute resources without compromising the mission.

2. Resource Acquisition: Finding new funding sources and partners is essential for expansion. The organization seeks resources that align with its values and goals, ensuring that financial support does not compromise its mission.

3. Educating Rosie Communities: Engaging both new and existing Rosie communities is vital for sustaining momentum. "Thanks!" plans to educate these communities about their significance in the movement, fostering a sense of ownership and pride.

4. Personnel and Skills: Identifying individuals with the right mix of internal and external skills is critical for advancing the movement. "Thanks!" seeks team members who promote innovation, cooperation, and goal sharing, fostering a collaborative environment.

5. Media Representation: Overcoming incomplete news narratives and highlighting the contributions of all participants is essential. The organization aims to counter media biases by promoting positive stories of cooperation and productivity by people with diverse backgrounds and interests.

6. Leadership and Participation: Leveraging collective intelligence and balanced participation are crucial for effective leadership. Drawing from recent research on leadership, "Thanks!" prioritizes prosocial character over specific skills, fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.

7. Management and Planning: Efficient and effective management skills are essential for navigating the complexities of a social movement. The organization recognizes the need to incorporate traditional management principles with modern tools and technologies to drive productivity and collaboration.

8. Academic Collaboration: Engaging academic leaders in management can provide valuable insights and expertise. While many academic institutions focus on profit-driven research, "Thanks!" seeks collaborators who understand the unique challenges of non-profit ventures and can contribute to its mission of unity and cooperation.

By addressing these challenges head-on and implementing strategic initiatives, "Thanks!" aims to broaden the concept of nonviolence to encompass cooperative productivity and foster widespread pride in collective achievements. Through innovation, collaboration, and shared goals, the organization endeavors to build a movement that unites diverse people, places, and partners in pursuit of a common vision.

Criticisms: 

• Critics argue that limited resources, media coverage, and public interest may hinder the success of the American Rosie Movement™.
• Concerns are raised about the scalability of the initiative, recognition of "Thanks!"'s contributions, and the broader societal willingness to prioritize the legacy of older and deceased women.
• Skepticism exists regarding the need for charismatic leadership, financial incentives, and government support in driving the movement forward.
• The organization remains committed to overcoming these challenges and broadening the definition of nonviolence to encompass cooperative productivity and community pride.

Summary

"Thanks!" is dedicated to fostering unity among Americans, including other Rosie groups, by emphasizing practical actions over abstract ideals. It serves as a model for collaborative projects and aims to inspire others to follow suit. Rather than aspiring to be a large organization with limited public engagement, "Thanks!" strives to embody Bo Burlingham's concept of a "small giant" — an entity that prioritizes lasting impact and meaningful interactions with the community. Through its focus on tangible initiatives and role modeling, "Thanks!" seeks to cultivate a culture of cooperation and productivity, ultimately contributing to a more united and empowered society.

See also

Allied Nations

American Rosie the Riveter Association

Balanced Participation

Chapel of the Four Chaplains

Collective Intelligence

Collaborative Intelligence

Community Development

Conserving during World War II

Freedom Museum, Netherlands

Great Depression

Home Front During World War II

Horizontal Integration

Human Potential

Labor Day

Learning by Doing

Role Models

Movements

National Movements

National US Navy History Museum

Non-violent change

Oral Histories

Partnership Development

Role Modeling

Project Management

Program Management

Rosie the Riveter

Rosie the Riveter Day

Rosie the Riveter World War II Historic National Park

Senior Citizens

Shared Value Initiative

Social Entrepreneurship

Six Forces Model

The Arts (visual, performing and literary)

US Department of Labor Hall of Fame

Veterans History

Victory Europe Day

Victory Japan Day

Wiel Lenders, Ph.D.

Women’s History

World War II

Wreaths across America

Yankee Museum

Youth Education

References

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2.    Montague, Anne. Speech given at the World War II Memorial, Washington, DC, hosted by The Spirit of '45, August, 2014. Lincoln Today.

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