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Find the Good Day: JLP Members Turn Optimism into Action

Twenty-four JLP members gathered at our Headquarters to commemorate International Find the Good Day on Saturday, September 20th. Volunteers prepared 140 meals for Mama-Tee Fridges, a mutual aid project that helps food-insecure neighbors access fresh, nutritious food.

 

The meals consisted of a wrap, side salad, and yogurt parfait, and were distributed to community fridges located at senior living centers, schools, and pharmacies throughout Philadelphia.

 

“Find the Good Day” was established by the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) in 2023 as a global initiative to celebrate optimism, community, and positive change. The Junior League of Philadelphia centers food insecurity, hunger, and nutrition as a core focus of its mission and philanthropy, and this event offered members a hands-on way to make a tangible difference in the lives of neighbors in need.

 

Saturday morning began with chopping cucumbers and ended with yellow refrigerators overflowing with healthy, ready-to-eat meals—an inspiring reminder of the power of community, collaboration, and caring for others.yellow refrigerator with the words "Free Food" inscribed and filled with meals to-go prepared by the Junior Leauge of Philadelphia
Inspiration and Impact: Highlights from the September General Membership Meeting
On September 16, members of The Junior League of Philadelphia gathered at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania for the first General Membership Meeting (GMM) of the 2025–2026 League year. New, Active, and Sustainer members reconnected amid vintage card catalogs and archives highlighting the League’s rich past, while Buena tacos added a flavorful touch to the evening.
The meeting opened with a warm welcome from JLP President Pam Phojanakong, emphasizing themes of community, growth, and meaningful engagement. Members were encouraged to explore new opportunities for involvement while continuing to support the initiatives that make JLP a vibrant force in Philadelphia.
A highlight of the evening was a Fireside Chat with Maggy Wilkinson, CEO of Athena Global Advisors, with Q&A hosted by Erin McCahill, Co-Chair of the Education and Volunteer Training Committee. Maggy shared insights on leadership and mentoring, prompting lively discussion and thoughtful reflection among attendees. When asked about creating lasting community partnerships, Maggy underscored the importance that we “mean it,” approaching every effort with authenticity and full presence.
Maggy Wilkinson, CEO of Athena Global Advisors

Adding depth and perspective to the evening, a Sustainers Panel gave members a window into the JLP’s past, present, and future. Bobbie Cameron, Mary Hinds, Marilyn Sprague, and Nancy Scarlatto reflected on their own experiences, shared lessons learned, and offered advice for newer members, inspiring meaningful engagement with the League’s programs. Through their stories, it became clear how JLP women have consistently risen to challenges—whether providing critical community support during the AIDS epidemic or hosting “bed and breakfast” fundraisers in their own homes, demonstrating creativity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to service.

Throughout the meeting, members had the chance to connect, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of how they can contribute to the League’s mission. The event fostered a sense of belonging and reminded attendees of the collective impact that comes from dedicated service and leadership.

As the League year continues, members are encouraged to stay involved in upcoming volunteer projects, committee work, and networking opportunities. With the momentum from the September GMM, JLP is poised for another year of empowerment, service, and community impact.

The Heart Behind the Mission: Why the Annual Fund Matters
The Junior League of Philadelphia’s (JLP) Annual Fund plays a vital role in fueling our mission each year. By helping to cover operating costs, the Annual Fund allows us to do more — supporting both our community partners and our member programming.
In fact, everything the JLP accomplishes is backed by the Annual Fund. It strengthens our budget and ensures we can carry out meaningful, strategic work that directly aligns with our mission to improve lives in the Greater Philadelphia area.
For those who lead the effort, working on the Annual Fund is especially meaningful. Meaningful philanthropy is a hallmark of the JLP, and being able to encourage members to give — at any level — reflects the collective confidence in our mission. Whether it’s a small or large contribution, every gift makes a difference.
If you’re considering a donation this year, why not start with a gift that works for you? Even a contribution of $35 or more comes with the added benefit of earning a Ways & Means credit.
This year, our goal is to increase member participation. By joining your fellow members in giving, you’ll not only strengthen our community impact this year but also help us continue to do so for many years to come.
Junior League of Philadelphia Day Trip to the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia
On October 8, thirteen Junior League of Philadelphia (JLP) Sustainers met at the Masonic Temple on Broad Street for a tour of the historic Philadelphia national landmark. Construction on the building began in 1868 and was completed in 1873. It was designed by architect James H. Windrim and is home to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, as well as the Masonic Museum and Library.
The tour guide led the group through many beautiful rooms and spaces in the Temple, including the Renaissance, Corinthian, and Gothic Halls, the library, the Grand Ballroom, and the ornately decorated corridors adorned with large oil paintings of past Grand Masters. The building’s architecture features a striking Normandy-style exterior. After the tour, several Sustainers enjoyed lunch and conversation at Reading Terminal Market.
JLP Members Swing Toward Connection and Confidence at Walnut Lane Golf Club

 

 

Under the warm mid-August sun, nine JLP members gathered at Walnut Lane Golf Club in the Roxborough section of Philadelphia for a golf clinic.  

This was more than a golf outing. It was an afternoon of growth, camaraderie, and quiet confidence, led with patience by Director of Golf, Kyle Spaulding. The group, made up largely of beginners clad in fashionable golf attire, started with a relaxed meet and greet for an hour of conversation and connection on the clubhouse patio. The energy was light but purposeful, a blend of laughter and curiosity as members got to know each other beyond their LinkedIn bios and roles within the League. 

With the foundations laid in conversation, the clinic portion began. Under Kyle’s guidance, members learned how to grip a club with intention, how to stand with balance, and how to find rhythm in their swing–not unlike finding their footing in boardrooms or community initiatives. Some swings sent balls sailing. Others skittered along the grass. But every moment was met with encouragement and thoughtful critiques before trying the skill again. 

The afternoon culminated in a three-hole scramble, a low-pressure, team-based format that allowed the group to practice their newfound skills on the course. The tree-lined hills of Walnut Lane became a classroom in confidence; each shot a chance to try again, each putt a lesson in patience and mindfulness. 

 

There were cheers for well-struck drives and laughter over wayward shots. The leaderboard didn’t matter. What mattered was the shared experience of learning something new together.  

As the sun dipped behind the fairways and the final putts dropped, one thing was clear: golf wasn’t just a game that day. It was a bridge between professional lives and personal growth, between individual ambition and collective joy. Members left with a few more golf tips, a handful of new connections, and a sense of anticipation for the next golf affinity group outing. Because when JLP women lead, even on the golf course, community follows.

JLP affinity groups offer members unique, tailored experiences centered around shared interests. To learn more or join the next golf outing, contact jlpgolfaffinitygroup@gmail.com

The JLP Has Gone to the Dogs (and We Couldn’t Be Happier!)
The New Member Committee took recruitment to a whole new level. Co-hosted by President, Pam Phojanakong and Executive Vice President, Dalia Omran, The Junior League of Philadelphia (JLP) gathered for a recruitment and do-good social on August 20, 2025, at The Boozy Mutt, a spot where a dog park meets a bar and restaurant.
Pam and Dalia have often joked that they wished league events were dog friendly. The Boozy Mutt provided the perfect backdrop for members and prospects alike to mingle with their furry companions in tow.
However, the event wasn’t just about fun; it also reflected the JLP’s commitment to making a meaningful impact. In brainstorming how to support fighting food insecurity, the committee discovered the Pet Food Pantry at PAWS (Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society), which provides support to community members who need assistance to feed their pets.
Many food assistance programs overlook the needs of pets, making the pantry’s mission especially important. Attendees at the event were asked to bring pet food donations, and thanks to their generosity, the JLP collected 65 pounds of food!
The night was a resounding success: new friendships were formed, tails were wagged, and the spirit of service shone through. The JLP looks forward to hosting more dog-friendly gatherings throughout the year and continuing to build connections between our members and four-legged friends
Phundraising with the Phillies 

 

The Junior League of Philadelphia (JLP) was out at the ballpark on September 24 and had fun supporting the Phillies on their way to Red October. There was something for everyone to cheer about: 11 runs scored, homeruns, great pitching and a win over the Marlins. 

Fifty league members were in attendance and sold out the ticket block, raising close to $500. The fun didn’t stop there: two members attended their first game, and it was a baby’s first game, too. 

Be on the lookout this spring for more Phundraising opportunities with Focus Fundraising; the Phillies can’t wait to work with the League again. 

Sustainers Explore Art at the John Wind Studio and Dina Wind Art Foundation

The Sustainers visited the John Wind Studio and Dina Wind Art Foundation in South Philadelphia on April 10. The studio and foundation are housed in a recently renovated historic firehouse stable. It is truly a hidden gem in the city of Philadelphia. Annamarie Hellebusch and Debbie Vozzo co-chaired the event.

John Wind is a mixed media artist and jewelry designer. He has works in the permanent collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Museum of the American Revolution.

His mother, Dina Wind, was a trailblazing artist and arts advocate who created bold, abstract welded sculptures.

During the tour, they were able to see both John’s and Dina’s art. John graciously donated 25% of jewelry sales from their visit to the JLP, and the tour, the Sustainers enjoyed a delicious lunch at the BOK Building – Miles Table.

Junior League of Philadelphia Thrift Shop storefront
Did You Know? The Story of the Junior League of Philadelphia’s Headquarters
Junior League of Philadelphia Thrift Shop storefront
1. A Historic Beginning
In 1924, the Junior League of Philadelphia (JLP) set out to preserve history by becoming the guardian of Sweetbriar Mansion in Fairmount Park. By 1928, the League had raised the necessary funds to restore and establish the mansion as its headquarters, marking the beginning of its legacy in historic preservation.
2. The Birth of a Legacy
While Sweetbriar served as the League’s home, JLP’s impact extended far beyond its walls. In 1945, members launched the Children’s Outgrown Shop, a small resale initiative that would later grow into the JLP Thrift Shop—now the organization’s largest asset and primary fundraiser.
3. A Move Toward Growth
As JLP expanded its mission and membership, it became clear that Sweetbriar, while historic, no longer met the organization’s evolving needs. In 1937, the League moved to the Warwick Hotel in Rittenhouse Square, then to the Free Quaker Meeting House in 1965 near Independence Hall, and finally in 1998, the League moved its headquarters to Ardmore, Pennsylvania, to create a more accessible and functional space for its members.
4. A Major Investment in the Future
In 2014, JLP launched a $1.4 million Centennial Campaign for Building Community. This initiative, funded primarily by members, led to a complete renovation of the Ardmore headquarters, ensuring it could serve as a modern hub for collaboration, leadership, and community engagement.
5. A Space Designed for Impact
Today, the headquarters at 27 Lancaster Avenue is more than just a Thrift Shop and office—it is a central gathering place where members come together for training sessions, committee meetings, and planning initiatives that drive JLP’s mission forward.
6. Empowering Members
The headquarters offers dedicated workspaces, a members’ lounge, and access to organizational archives, providing resources that support both leadership development and meaningful volunteer efforts.
7. Strengthening Community Connections
Located in the heart of Ardmore, the JLP headquarters serves as a bridge between the organization and the greater Philadelphia area, fostering partnerships and ensuring the League’s continued impact for years to come.
JLP Thrift Shop
Celebrating the Success of Our Fundraising Campaign: A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Supporters
We raised an impressive $37,500 from 135 donors as of April 18. We are incredibly grateful for their support and generosity; every single donation, no matter the amount, has made a difference.
Donor Highlights
Number of New Member Donors: We were especially pleased to see more than 10 New Members donating, which is a new record!
Small but Mighty: Some of our most impactful donations came from everyday heroes—people who gave anywhere from $5 to $35—showing that every contribution counts in making a real difference.
Returning Supporters: A special thank you to those who have supported us before and chose to do so again this year. Your ongoing commitment means the world. Special shout-outs to Susan Asplundh, Aronte Bennett, Elizabeth Farr, Kate Hall, Mary Peller, Jane Sagendorf, Tracey Specter, Deborah Marsteller, Julia DeMoss, and Helen Weary!
© The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. | 2024
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