Welcome to the Junior League of Columbia! 

It is truly an honor to welcome you on behalf of the Junior League of Columbia (JLC). For more than 102 years, women in this organization have come together to lead, serve, and create meaningful impact across our community through volunteer action, collaboration, and leadership development. 

The JLC was founded in Columbia in 1924 after Katharine Heath Manning Perry visited New York City and saw firsthand the work being done by the Junior League there, which was originally established in 1901 by Mary Harriman. Inspired by the idea that women could work together to improve their communities in powerful and lasting ways, Katharine returned home and gathered ten friends to begin what would become the Junior League of Columbia. More than a century later, that same spirit of service, leadership, and connection continues to guide us. 

Today, the JLC is more than 1,300 members strong. Our members are leaders, professionals, mothers, mentors, advocates, and volunteers who are passionate about strengthening the Midlands and supporting healthy relationships for women and children. Together, we invest thousands of volunteer hours into our community while also developing leadership skills and lifelong friendships within our organization. 

But what makes the Junior League truly special is not just the work we do, but the people who do it. This year, we are placing a special focus on our membership and the experience of belonging to this organization. At the heart of every fundraiser, every volunteer project, every training, and every moment of impact are the women of the JLC. Our members are the foundation of everything we accomplish. 

As someone who has spent many years in the League, first as a young woman without children and now as a busy mom of three, I have personally experienced how deeply this organization shapes lives, builds confidence, and creates connection. The JLC has been a constant source of leadership growth, friendship, and purpose for me, and I hope others feel that same sense of belonging when they walk through our doors. 

Whether you are a prospective member, transfer, community partner, sponsor, Holiday Market vendor, or friend of the League, we are grateful you are here. We invite you to be part of our story as we continue building toward the future together. 

In the words of our founder, Mary Harriman, “We have the responsibility to act, and we have the opportunity to conscientiously act to affect the environment about us.” 

Together Toward Tomorrow, 

Erika Lovegreen
President
Junior League of Columbia