Community Impact

Since 1959, JLS has contributed over 1.3 million volunteer service hours and over $4.6 million to the community. On average, our members donate over 20,000 hours of volunteer service annually to the community.

In April of 2005, the General Membership of the Junior League of Springfield reviewed program focus areas resulting from two years of community assessment and research. The membership selected the program focus area of Child Abuse and Neglect.

For the next several years, the Junior League of Springfield will funnel its resources to address Child Abuse and Neglect in our community. It is alarming that child abuse rates in Greene County far exceed the state average; the Junior League will impact this issue through advocacy, direct service and volunteer time. We will collaborate with local experts to develop strong intervention programs, raise community awareness and be part of the solution.

With this focus in mind, the Junior League of Springfield is partnering with Burrell Behavioral Health, CoxHealth, Community Partnership of the Ozarks, St. John's Health System, Missouri State University, and United Way to develop a crisis nursery in Springfield. A crisis nursery is a proven child abuse prevention tool and a recognized community need.

The Crisis Nursery of the Ozarks provides 24/7 residential care for kids when there is trouble at home. Families in crisis receive education, respite, support, and counseling services. The Junior League opened the crisis nursery in Springfield in the spring of 2007. In addition, the Junior League of Springfield partners with several community agencies to support other initiatives aimed at reducing child abuse and neglect in our community.

Please contact Francine Pratt at francine@isabelshouse.org or 865-2273 to learn more about ways to get involved! Help us build a better community, one child at time!

Updated 03/15/10