Welcome from the President It is with great pleasure and excitement that I welcome you to the Junior League of Dallas’ Centennial Gala! For 100 years, the JLD has striven to be the premier organization to connect and develop women to be change agents in the Dallas community. In 1922, 40 women came together to give their time, talent and energy to positively impact the lives of Dallas’ growing population. Initially supporting hospital patients and individuals with disabilities, the group leveraged the power of women as trained volunteers, which gave rise to the Junior League of Dallas. Just a few years after the League began its work in Dallas, members shifted their focus and immediately responded to combat the economic crisis and work with the unemployed during the Great Depression. And in the 1940s, members of the JLD answered the call by serving in war-related projects in addition to their regular service. Despite the challenging historic events occurring through the 1930s and 1940s, the JLD continued to grow reaching 510 members entering into the 1950s. Today, the JLD has grown to more than 4,400 members and continues to transform Dallas by training members for effective participation in the community and through its dedication to the belief that volunteer service is an essential part of responsible citizenship. As we emerge from recent challenging historic events, the Junior League of Dallas remains a catalyst for positive change, giving women from diverse backgrounds and perspectives unique opportunities to grow, learn and serve. And after our members complete their years of Active service, the League’s training propels them to continue their impact in the community by serving in nonprofit and board leadership roles, leading within corporate organizations, holding political offices and creating nonprofits themselves. From its inception until now, the JLD has given more than $40 million to local nonprofit agencies and has provided more than nine million volunteer hours to promote quality health services, awareness and prevention; strengthen the security and stability of individuals and families; and promote excellence in education and inspiring creativity. To our donors, members and friends, we are truly grateful to you for believing in the transformative power of our mission and supporting this legacy of leadership that has been devoted to Dallas for a century. Thank you for celebrating this milestone evening with us! Yours in service, Christa Sanford President 2021 – 2022
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