Community

In keeping with our mission, the Junior League of Columbia (JLC) promotes voluntarism and improves communities by providing a variety of avenues for our members to become involved and make positive impacts throughout the Midlands community and schools. Our membership gives 50,000 hours—or $1 million worth of time—to benefit children and families in our community EVERY SINGLE YEAR!


Shifting Our Focus

In 2022, the Junior League of Columbia began the process of redefining its community focus as part of the AJLI collective impact process. A team of sustainers and active leaders assembled to study the process and begin work on a plan to have a full community scan based on research data and interviews with community partners and league leaders.

As we celebrate our centennial year, the JLC is excited to announce a shift in our focus area. Beginning with the 2024-2025 league year, the JLC will be concentrating on promoting healthy relationships for women and children. 

If your organization is interested in partnering with the Junior League of Columbia, please visit our Partnership Application landing page to learn more and apply! The application deadline is March 15.


Community Assistance Funds

The Junior League of Columbia may designate a portion of its budget for Community Assistance Funds to help address the short-term critical needs of not-for-profit organizations whose work supports and relates to the mission and vision of the JLC and/or AJLI. The intent of these funds is to permit the JLC to respond to critical community needs. Donations from the Community Assistance Fund are administered by the Board of Directors.

Applicants for Community Assistance Funds must be a 501(c)(3) organization in good standing and must serve the residents of the greater Midlands area of South Carolina. Organizations may receive one grant per fiscal year (July 1–June 30). The average award amount is $1,000.

For more information, please email info@jlcolumbia.org.


Community Forums

The Community Research and Project Development Committee hosts a series of issue-specific forums during the league year that bring together representatives from non-profits organizations, agencies, and other groups working in common areas. Each of these forums is designed as a facilitated conversation where members can learn more about specific topics that may benefit their organization or about issues facing our community and ways they can become involved in addressing them

Contact info@jlcolumbia.org to be added to our community partner email list to learn about upcoming topics.