The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc.’s (JLP) Project Research & Development (PR&D) Committee is dedicated to gathering and analyzing feedback from each League committee and transforming it into actionable insights that drive positive change. The committee’s goal is to ensure that Member feedback informs decisions that strengthen the League’s overall operations and initiatives.
At its core, PR&D works closely with each JLP committee to boost survey engagement and facilitate open discussions during Project Advisory Council (PAC) meetings. These conversations help identify what is working well and what areas need improvement, allowing PR&D to recommend changes that enhance committee effectiveness for the following League year. The survey responses PR&D gathers ultimately shape committee sizes, budgets, and the voting slate for the Annual Meeting. They also impact the scope of committee and the effectiveness of committee projects.
The Interplay Between PR&D and PAC
PAC meets 3-5 times a year to review the feedback PR&D collects from League committees and to address key issues such as budgets, Member support, and strategic recommendations for the League’s future. During PAC meetings, committee chairs present their findings, and Members hold closed-door discussions to vote on actionable items. This year, all committees will present at PAC, focusing on three key takeaways for Board-level advocacy.
- PR&D plays a vital role in ensuring PAC meetings run smoothly. The committee is responsible for:
- Creating and analyzing the surveys sent to each committee prior to PAC meetings.
- Summarizing key insights into presentations for PAC discussions.
- Managing meeting logistics, including timekeeping, note-taking, and post-PAC follow-ups.
Together, PAC and PR&D ensure that committee feedback translates into meaningful action, driving positive change and supporting the League’s growth.
Inside PR&D: Co-Chairs’ Perspectives
Ashlee Roberts and Le Ann Ahern, Co-Chairs of the PR&D Committee for the 2024-2025 League year, shared their favorite aspect of serving on PR&D:
“Being on PR&D allows us to gain unique insight into each committee, connect with incredible Members, and feel fulfilled by advocating for meaningful change to better the League.”
PR&D Committee Member Kerry Mallett reflects on her experience:
“I enjoy PR&D because it’s helped me understand the functioning of the JLP more deeply and provides structure to analyze ways to improve and further our mission.”
PR&D Committee Member Cailin Lillis shares:
“PR&D is a great way to get to know the ins and outs of each committee and their responsibilities. We play a role in making improvements across the League so we can function more effectively and continue our great work in the community.”
PR&D’s work is instrumental in shaping the League’s future by ensuring that Member voices are heard and that feedback is transformed into meaningful action. If you’re looking for a way to make a lasting impact on the League’s structure and initiatives, PR&D is a great place to get involved!