Blog – Junior League of Springfield, MO

JLS is Seeking New Members for the 2024-2025 League Year

Mary Galaska — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 18:24:11 +0000

A note from Tara Benson – Current Co-Leader for the JLS Provisional Class of 2023-2024

“Early in my Junior League membership years, I was given the opportunity to attend an Organizational Development Institute (ODI) sponsored by the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI). There, I met a number of women working their way into leadership roles within their local leagues and hearing from long time members giving us their greatest advice. One speaker said words that resonated with me and still do. “Junior League was never a waste of my time”. Those words still ring true today. I have do not regret joining or being an active member of Junior League for 13 years. I have met some great women, connected with the community and leaders in ways I never expected, learned valuable leadership skills I use in my job and in other community roles. Everyone’s journey as a member may look different, but the opportunities are present to make big changes for yourself, your community and your life if you are willing to step into some unknowns.

As a provisional member, we aim to make the unknowns known through an educational series of meetings, events and projects. You along with other new members will get to know one another while serving on a JLS committee. One of our most popular provisional member events is the Know Your City tour where we go on a tour of Springfield and hear about all the ways Junior League has impacted our community. Plus, there is always time for a social gathering at a local coffee shop, making crafts or a Little Debbie Wine Pairing Party.

If you are ready to try something new, get into something a little unknown and have some fun while learning new skills, then JLS is for you. Please e-mail provisionalmember@jlspringfield.org to get on our interest list for upcoming events and socials.”

Check out the Join JLS page for information on upcoming informational meeting information as well as to complete a Member Interest Form

Charity Ball – 2024

Mary Galaska — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 17:42:50 +0000

Please join us for the 64th Annual Junior League of Springfield Charity Ball

20 April 2024

Hickory Hills Country Club

If you are interested in sponsoring this event – please click here to view the 2024 sponsorship packet and reach out to the Charity Ball Committee at Charityball@JLSpringfield.org.

Purchase individual tickets to Charity Ball.

Purchase a Maxon Necklace Raffle Ticket.

Purchase one of the Charity Ball Floral Arrangements.

Become a sponsor at Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze levels.

International Find the Good Day

Mary Galaska — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:02:42 +0000

Welcome to Find the Good Day, a celebration of compassion, community, and positive change! Join us in embracing the spirit of kindness and empowerment as we commemorate this special occasion that echoes the core values of the Junior Leagues across the world.

The history of Junior Leagues dates back to the late 19th century when visionary women recognized the need for organized efforts to address pressing social issues. Inspired by a shared commitment to effect positive change, they established the first Junior League in New York City in 1901. Over the years, Junior Leagues have proliferated across the United States and beyond, becoming a transformative force for good.

At the heart of every Junior League lies a profound dedication to empowering women to become catalysts for change. Through training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, Junior League members evolve into confident leaders who drive meaningful transformations in their communities.

Find the Good Day is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a movement that reflects the timeless spirit of Junior Leagues – a legacy of kindness, empowerment, and community transformation. Together, we aim to make a difference by embracing the power of unity and positive change.

As we commemorate this extraordinary occasion, we extend an open invitation to all passionate individuals who wish to be a part of this impactful movement. Whether you’re an experienced advocate or a budding philanthropist, there’s a place for you in the Junior Leagues.

Join hands with us on Find the Good Day, and let’s create a legacy of compassion and positivity that will resonate for generations to come. Together, we can find the good in every day and make a real difference in the lives of others.

Celebrate Find the Good Day with us, and together, let’s continue the inspiring journey that began over a century ago, leaving a legacy of compassion for generations to come.

In conjunction with the Association of Junior Leagues, International, we are hosting an International Find the Good Day event! This is a day to celebrate all the forces for good in our communities and lives.

We will also be hosting a fundraiser in partnership with the Kendra Scott store in the Battlefield Mall! 20% of sales during the special event will benefit the Junior League of Springfield and our nonprofit mission. The in store event will be held from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. The online event will be for 48 hours with code GIVEBACK-ETGVL.

JLS Provisional Class 2023-24

Mary Galaska — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:39:30 +0000

The JLS Provisional Class for the 2023-24 League year had their first orientation on 8/5/2023. This vivacious group of women was excited to get the year started and see what was in store for their first year with the League. Provisional Co-Chair Tara Benson noted “We are thrilled to see so much enthusiasm in this provisional class. They are ready to do great things in JLS!”

Provisional Assistant Chair Bethani Cunningham said “I am looking forward to a year of growing and learning with our provisional class. We have a dynamic group of ladies and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish this year with the League.”

There is still time to join this provisional class! New members will be welcomed to the 2023-24 class through September 1, 2023.

For more information visit: Join JLS and Make. A. Difference

Or email: provisionalmember@jlspringfield.org

JLS Office Relocation

Mary Galaska — Sat, 05 Aug 2023 00:44:07 +0000

We have moved from the historic building on Bennett Street, that we have called home since 1983, in order to better meet the needs of the organization and community. After much deliberation and investigation, the 2022-23 JLS Board of Directors voted to approve the sale of the JLS building. The building was listed with Jeff Childs, SVN Rankin Company, LLC and was sold to New Moon Studio Spaces, LLC which will utilize the building to create dedicated studio space for local artists. This cultural and economic development will enhance Springfield in a spirit that aligns with the JLS commitment to our community. The sale of the building closed on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.

On July 17, 2023, we signed a one-year lease with Ozark Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America. This moved our offices to 1616 South Eastgate Avenue, in Springfield. While we will still have office, meeting, and storage space, the move provides additional perks with an ADA-compliant and technologically advanced facility. This offers JLS enhanced opportunities for collaboration, networking, and innovation. We believe this move will further strengthen our organization and enable us to continue making an impact in our community. The BSA has been a delight to work with and are equally excited about this new-found partnership; they, too, view this as a chance to positively influence both organizations, and as an ongoing alliance. “Partnering with Junior League of Springfield to share office space is a win for both organizations. We share the same values and work to grow our members in leadership and service to community. I can’t think of a better group to be associate with,” said Ozark Trails Council Scout Executive/CEO John Feick.

Like other nonprofit organizations in our area, JLS has changed over the years, and will continue to in the years to come. The decision to move the JLS Headquarters was made to optimize efficiency, enhance capabilities to better serve members and fulfill the mission, and ensure spaces are accessible for everyone in the community. We are genuinely excited about this relocation and the breath of fresh air it presents for the League and our members.

2023-2024 JLS Leadership

Mary Galaska — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 23:06:27 +0000

With the recent organizational changes comes a opportunity to return to being led solely by a Board of Directors. After a vote by the general membership of the Junior League of Springfield the following individuals will comprise the 2023-24 JLS Leadership.

2023-24 JLS Board of Directors’ Officers:
Samantha Williams, President
Rachel Fuhrman, President-Elect
Rachel Fortenberry, Secretary
Teresa Ollis, Treasurer
2023-24 JLS Board Members:
Jennifer Growcock, Sustainer Director
Rebecca Perkins, Nominating Chair
Lisa Longwell, VP of Communications
Daphne Stewart, VP of Community Impact
Heather Trinca, VP of Fund Development
Michaela Steinmetz-Benton, VP of Membership
Ann Marie Baker, At-Large Sustainer Member

Current JLS membership totals 403 women from the Springfield metropolitan area that are committed to upholding our mission:

The Junior League of Springfield, Missouri, Inc., is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

10th Annual Fall Home Tour – 2023

Mary Galaska — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 01:11:10 +0000

10th Annual Fall Home Tour!

Saturday, October 7 2023

Presenting Sponsor and Designer for all 2023 Tour Homes:

Interested in showcasing your home, business, or restaurant at a future event? Email us at hometour@jlspringfield.org.

Proceeds support the Junior League of Springfield’s mission to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.

Rummage Sale on Saturday, May 6

Lauren Troy — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 11:28:29 +0000

The Junior League of Springfield is hosting a one day indoor/outdoor rummage sale in partnership with the Plaid Door! Shop our members’ donations on Saturday, May 6 starting at 7 a.m. through 1 p.m. You will find clothing, toys, furniture, and more! All proceeds benefit the Junior League of Springfield and our support of community partners.

Merry & Bright Holiday Lights 2022

Lauren Troy — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 16:02:39 +0000

Junior League of Springfield’s Merry & Bright Holiday Lights tour kicks off December 6th and runs through December 27th! Grab your family, get in the car and get ready for a fun night of tradition with all the lights, trimmings and memories that comes with this magical time of year!

When you purchase our Merry & Bright Holiday Lights Tour, you will receive a map of homes and areas around Springfield that you can tour at your leisure during any night of the nights listed, a link to holiday music that everyone loves this time of year and a few extras you’ll just have to wait and see! Pack the whole tour into one evening, spread it out over several memory-packed evenings, or revisit our locations as many times as you can before the 27th.

Maps will be sent to purchasers using the email address they provide at checkout with 24 hours of purchase starting on December 6. If you need your map sent faster than that, please call or text Morgan Boyd, Finance Manager, at 417.838.0454.

Make memories with your family this holiday season while supporting the Junior League of Springfield!

For questions, please email financecouncil@jlspringfield.org

Donate for Giving Tuesday on November 29

Lauren Troy — Sun, 09 Oct 2022 22:55:40 +0000

The Junior League of Springfield (JLS) is joining #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide.

In honor of #GivingTuesday, on Nov. 29, JLS will celebrate being an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. By kicking off the holiday season with a campaign to collaborate and improve the local community, locals can give back in impactful ways to the charities and causes they support.

Organizations that have benefited from JLS’s presence in the community include Isabel’s House–Crisis Nursery of the Ozarks, the Discovery Center, Ronald McDonald Tooth Truck, Boys & Girls Club, Leadership Springfield, and the biannual Community Report Card.

Those who are interested in joining the Junior League of Springfield’s #GivingTuesday initiative can visit our donation page here or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.