The Junior League of Washington is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women ’ s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training
VISION
The Junior League of Washington strives to be a vibrant presence in the lives of the women and children in the greater metropolitan area of the District of Columbia, serving as a resource throughout the community to effect positive change, seek common ground, and inspire hope
FOCUS
The Junior League of Washington focuses our financial and volunteer resources on supporting pathways to opportunity across the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area. We have adopted a broad approach in response to evolving challenges facing our community, in order to produce real change Supporting Pathways to Opportunity includes supporting educational, professional, and financial programming and resources for children, adolescents, young adults, adults, as well as capacity building for community organizations
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
The Junior League of Washington welcomes all women who value our Mission We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations, and communities
OUR MEMBERS
At present, over 2,300 women in the Washington, DC, area are members of the Junior League of Washington (JLW) JLW organizes and trains these women for effective action and leadership in our community through orientations, seminars, and hands-on experience Throughout JLW history, we have provided millions of volunteer hours and more than $6 million to the community Membership in JLW today empowers all women to volunteer and help those in need through our selection of volunteer opportunities
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Kimberly Price
PRESIDENT
Charlyn Stanberry
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Mary Grace McCormick
TREASURER
Lauren Dudley
VICE TREASURER
Christina Babcock
SECRETARY
Raiko Dai
COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC RELATIONS COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Laura Shull
COMMUNITY AFFAIRS
COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Jacqueline “Jackie” Malkes
COMMUNITY EDUCATION
COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Kristyn King
COMMUNITY IMPACT COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Madeline Shepherd
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Ellen Locke
NEW MEMBERSHIP COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Tiffani Moore
NOMINATING CHAIR & DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE
Betsy Bennett
STRATEGIC SUSTAINABILITY COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Diane Miller
SUSTAINER CHAIR & DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE
WAYS & MEANS COUNCIL DIRECTOR
Kelly Hunter L E A D E R S H I P
NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Growth and Excellence: Celebrating JLW's 111th Year
Cheers to an extraordinary 111th year of growth and excellence with the Junior League of Washington (JLW)!
This year, we embraced our theme, Go & Grow, challenging ourselves to expand our impact, refine our efforts, and deepen our engagement within JLW and the D C Metro community Sometimes, growth requires us to simplify and edit to focus on what truly matters and invest our time and energy where it will have the greatest impact Together, we rose to that challenge, and the results speak for themselves
Our work was celebrated on a national stage as JLW received three prestigious awards at the Association of Junior Leagues International's (AJLI) annual conference: the DIE(A)B Award, the Leadership Development Award, and the inaugural Excellence Award These honors reflect our commitment to advancing women’s leadership and achieving meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training The Excellence Award especially underscores the power of our collective efforts and the unwavering dedication of our members.
We also made incredible strides locally, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to serving the community. This year, we raised $37,854.80 during our week-long Little Black Dress Initiative, shining a spotlight on housing insecurity in the D.C. Metro area. Through our grants program, we awarded $42,900 to organizations addressing critical needs, amplifying our mission to support the work of local organizations
We welcomed Olympic gold medalist, Dominique Dawes, as the keynote speaker at our annual Women’s Leadership Breakfast It was a moment that inspired and energized us as we continue to champion the power of women leaders in all areas of society From reimagining our signature fundraiser, The Art of Entertaining, to strengthening our partnerships with organizations like A Wider Circle, this year has been a testament to JLW’s ability to innovate and lead with purpose
None of this would have been possible without our 2,300+ members an extraordinary group of women whose passion, dedication, and leadership fuel our success Your commitment to service and your belief in JLW’s mission ensure that we continue to Go & Grow, while leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as JLW President this year. On behalf of the 2023-2024 Board of Directors, staff, and leadership, thank you for your vision, your hard work, and your unwavering support.
Thank you for embracing the challenge to simplify, focus, and Go & Grow and for planting the seeds of success that will sustain JLW’s bright future. I can not wait to see where we grow next!
In service and gratitude, Kimberly Price
2023-2024 JLW President
totaled OVER $110K
We had 1,453 DONORS across multiple fundraising initiatives including donations and ticket sales For
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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS’ ANNUAL NATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL (NBF)
Elizabeth Schock
Book lovers from across the country convened in Washington, DC for the annual National Book Festival The 2023 NBF occurred on August 21, 2023, at the Walter E Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC The theme was “Everyone Has a Story ”
“Every year, JLW volunteers show up with their white or black JLW hats, volunteer t-shirts, and smiles on their faces Every year, we help Festival-goers get their books signed by their favorite authors in organized lines, educate kids about our states' and territories' literary traditions in the Roadmap to Reading area, and ensure all Festival-goers have a wonderful experience,” says Amanda Claire Hoover, 2023-2024 LEP Vice Chair
In 2023, nearly 220 Junior League of Washington (JLW) members volunteered to support the Festival JLW actives, sustainers, and transfers all shared their time to ensure the success of the event Additionally, JLW provided over 1,200 service hours, the equivalent of nearly $60,000 of inkind support The committee hosted two training sessions to ensure that JLW volunteers were prepared
JLW has partnered with the Library of Congress for 21 years to support the NBF While the Festival has grown exponentially, one thing that has remained the same throughout the partnership is the commitment to literacy Literacy can open doors and create opportunities for all in our community Reading books with positive portrayals of characters that are similar to ourselves is empowering Through our partnership with NBF, and our commitment to literacy, JLW helps to open doors and empower women in our communities
Elaina Ateke, LEP Chair for 2023-2024 noted “It was wonderful to continue our partnership with the Library of Congress and be invited to attend the Center for the Book reception where we received recognition from the Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden for our continued efforts over the years ”
This partnership is the epitome of Go & Grow, because of all the members that have taken action to volunteer and build a decades long partnership to positively impact our community
M M U N I T
THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS
INITIATIVE (LBDI)
Elizabeth Schock
In November 2023, Junior League of Washington (JLW) members raised over $35,000 during the Little Black Dress Initiative (LBDI) LBDI is a social-media awareness campaign that highlights various concerns for women who face poverty in our communities, while also raising money to help address their immediate needs
Our community has some of the highest levels of income inequality coupled with a shortage of affordable housing When women have stable and affordable housing options, that helps to create stable communities To raise awareness, JLW members wore the same black dress (or outfit) for five days in a row
Jenna Artuso, a first-year active member and volunteer with Folger, said “Having to wash my dress each night opened my eyes to the added invisible labor women in poverty situations have to take on just to leave the house every day "
LBDI advocates also wore a button that said, “Ask me about my dress” and post on social media statistics, facts, and information that allow their followers to learn more about the importance of affordable housing and to donate to the cause
JLW Transfer, Tylin Woodstock, participated this year and shared that “Participating in LBDI profoundly impacted me by highlighting the strength of imperfect advocacy, as I was deeply moved by the unwavering support from my Promoter Miriam Pearsall, my LBDI Lead Mandy Asgeirsson, President Charlyn Stanberry, the women who shared their powerful personal stories, Cisco’s (my company ’s) immediate commitment to support, and the generous contributions from members ”
There were more than 400 donors from League members, friends and families, colleagues and employers The funds raised were for the 2024 Community Assistance grants that work to address homelessness and housing insecurity
Samantha Chavez, a new member, said, "Being a part of the Little Black Dress Initiative was an incredibly rewarding and educational experience I am so grateful to the JLW for giving me the opportunity to participate and help make my community a better place "
TOSSED & FOUND
Katherine Thordahl
The Junior League of Washington (JLW) boasts a rich history, unique events, and impactful charitable opportunities. One of our most notable charity events is the annual Tossed & Found.
Held each Spring, Tossed & Found is a one-of-akind fundraiser where gently used (and often incredibly valuable) items are sold to support the League’s community programs. Donations range from designer handbags and vintage furniture to brand new baby necessities, rare artwork, and antique jewelry. The event has become a cherished tradition for both League members and local bargain hunters - gaining a reputation as a place to find something special among items once tossed aside.
The Tossed & Found sale began as a creative way to raise funds for JLW’s programs and initiatives. Evolving from earlier rummage sales and donation drives, which were common fundraising methods for many Leagues. The sale set itself apart by emphasizing not just fundraising, but also environmental sustainability, community involvement, and inclusivity.
The event has become a beloved fixture in the DMV area. Known as a place where shoppers can find both exactly what they need and unexpected surprises League members race to try to get early volunteer shifts to get a first glimpse of what they hope they might be able to take home
"The Junior League of Washington’s Tossed & Found rummage sale has welcomed tens of thousands of shoppers over its 32 year history Proceeds from the sale are used to advance the League’s mission The sale has raised over $2 8 million, supported hundreds of community members through our Community Partner programs, and found new homes for thousands of items,” said Tossed & Found Co-Chair Kayla Connor
The 2024 Tossed & Found raised more than $150,000. It attracted over 1,000 attendees across the Children’s Trunk Show and Sale Weekend, and over 250 tickets were sold for the kick-off party, A Quality Occasion.
"Beyond raising money for JLW and our mission, Tossed & Found impacts the community in a number of ways. First, we provide community cash cards, $50 gift certificates to shop the sale, to individuals and community organizations. We also provide local community organizations with in kind donations of rummage, ” said Tossed & Found Co-Chair Cara Lasley.
Over the years, Tossed & Found has partnered with organizations such as the Washington School for Girls, New York Ave Presbyterian Church, and Women Giving Back, strengthening the League’s ties to the community.
JLW has also made accessibility a priority for Tossed & Found. The Community Cash Cards program provides $50 of Tossed & Found spending cash to members across our community. These vouchers allow community members to shop for essential items, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Plans for the 2025 event are already underway, and it will undoubtedly be another great success
THE ART OF ENTERTAINING:
A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF WASHINGTON
Amna Choudry
In the bustling landscape of philanthropy and social events, the Junior League of Washington (JLW) is proud to celebrate the successful debut of its inaugural The Art of Entertaining event Spearheaded by a newly formed committee dedicated to establishing a fresh Spring League tradition, The Art of Entertaining blends elegance, creativity, and community spirit
Replacing the beloved Kitchen Tour Committee, The Art of Entertaining marks a significant evolution in the League’s approach to fundraising and community involvement The Kitchen Tour Committee was known for organizing popular fundraising events that supported JLW’s community partners, grants, scholarships, and initiatives A highlight of these events was the annual parade of homes, where attendees could tour beautifully decorated properties while sampling local food and beverages However, in the post-COVID landscape, the League recognized the need for a more inclusive, centrally located spring gathering
“We wanted to ensure that our flagship Spring event could bring together as many members as possible at one centrally located venue that blended social engagement with philanthropy,” explained Desiree Carey, Vice Chair of Special Events for The Art of Entertaining and one of the driving forces behind the committee’s evolution Drawing inspiration from successful fundraisers like Dallas’ Kappa Tablescapes, the committee was determined to create an event that was both unforgettable and reflective of the League's spirit of creativity and community
The planning process for the event began with a search for a venue that would perfectly capture the essence of the evening It was serendipitous when the committee learned that the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA), a longstanding partner of JLW, would be reopening after an extensive renovation It became clear that hosting The Art of Entertaining at NMWA was the ideal choice "We wanted to strengthen our relationship with NMWA and create an event that would be iconic for the League, one that would resonate within the community for years to come, ” said Sparling Wilson, Committee Chair
What is The Art of Entertaining?
The event’s primary goal is to celebrate the art of possibility, showcasing stunning tablescape designs and demonstrations while giving back to the community Held on April 19th, the inaugural event welcomed over 300 guests and featured 16 uniquely designed tables displayed across two levels of the museum
“The tablescapes were created by applicants from diverse backgrounds, ranging from local designers to seasoned hostesses,” explained Carey Applicants submitted proposals, and the committee ensured a variety of themes and styles, making the event exciting and inspirational for all attendees
THE ART OF ENTERTAINING:
A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF WASHINGTON, CONTINUED...
Amna Choudry
The tablescapes were created by applicants from diverse backgrounds, ranging from local designers to seasoned hostesses,” explained Carey Applicants submitted proposals, and the committee ensured a variety of themes and styles, making the event exciting and inspirational for all attendees
Throughout the evening, guests were treated to a range of captivating displays, designed to inspire both novice hosts and seasoned entertainers A highlight of the event was the opportunity for guests to cast their votes for their favorite table, with the coveted Best-In-Table award - which was presented to Georgetown Garden Shop for their stunning design
In addition to the tablescapes, the event featured a variety of expert-led presentations aimed at enhancing guests' hosting skills Attendees enjoyed Master Wine and Cheese Pairings with Paste & Rind, learned how to Become a Poised and Confident Host with Elevate Etiquette, and discovered how to Create Captivating Table Settings with Hosting Table Other presentations included Calligraphy with Jenny Paxton, the Art of Design with Laksh Sarkark Creations, and Tableware Insights from Replacements, Ltd
A Herculean Effort
Transitioning from the cherished Kitchen Tour to an entirely new event was no small feat "This event took a Herculean effort to execute,” acknowledged Wilson, highlighting the importance of collaboration between members and community partners The inaugural event was a true team effort, with countless hours of planning and preparation required to ensure its success
Looking ahead, the committee envisions The Art of Entertaining growing into a landmark event for years to come “We want to continue to grow this event and make it an even bigger success, ensuring it remains a signature event for the League and the greater Washington, DC community,” Wilson shared
Beyond raising funds for JLW’s initiatives, the inaugural The Art of Entertaining has set a new standard for creativity, community engagement, and philanthropy As JLW evolves, The Art of Entertaining stands as a shining example of the League's commitment to excellence and its dedication to serving the greater Washington, DC area community
TO JLW’S 2023-2024 AWARD WINNERS!
TYCELY WILLIAMS
Sally Carruthers Spirit of Voluntarism
COLLI MCKIERNAN
President’s Award for Excellence, Community Placement
ASHLEY DOUGLASS & SPARLING WILSON
President’s Award for Excellence, Community Support
DEENA SMITH
President’s Award for Excellence, In-League
CELESTE OTSUKA
New Member Rising Star
ABBEY KANG
Outstanding Volunteer, Transfer
KAT ROGERS
Outstanding Volunteer Service, Transfer
DIANE BERINSTEIN
Outstanding Volunteer Service, Sustainer
ALEX SHAW, RACHEL VOLKMANN, L. FAY ARRINGTON, TRACEY TOLBERT JONES & KISHA ANDERSON
