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Our Mission in Action: Highlights from The Junior League of Philadelphia’s September General Membership Meeting

The first General Membership Meeting (GMM) of the year took place on September 24, 2024, at The Racquet Club of Philadelphia. Members gathered for a cocktail hour to mingle before the official start of the evening’s events. The Annual Fund, Sponsorship, and Leadership Committees hosted tables to engage directly with attendees, discussing the opportunities each committee provides. Members were also encouraged to sign a poster reflecting their reasons for joining and continuing with the League.

JLP members sit at September's GMM

September GMM 2024. Photo credit: BeauMonde Originals

At 7 p.m., the GMM officially kicked with an introductory speech by our President, Kate Hall. The past year’s achievements were highlighted, notably the Thrift Shop’s exceptional performance in its 20th year. The Shop has already raised over $300,000 this year, thanks to the generous donations and active participation of our members. The V.P. of Marketing & Communications also discussed recent changes to Junior League branding, including new colors and logos that better reflect the diversity, energy, and mission of our organization. To commemorate this update, the Branding & Marketing Committee provided custom League baseball caps to each member.

 

September GMM. Photo credit: BeauMonde Originals

Following the initial presentations, life coach Joanna Platt from The Joy of Enough delivered an inspiring program centered on belonging. She began by challenging traditional perceptions of successful business professionals, noting that while children often draw leaders as men, the qualities of effective leaders—such as empathy, creativity, and resilience—transcend gender. She encouraged members to reflect on their own sense of belonging within the League, asking, “At what point did you know you belonged here?” This engaging session inspired members to consider how to foster an inclusive environment and ensure every member feels welcome within the League.

 

This GMM not only celebrated our accomplishments but also encouraged each of all attendees to strengthen their connections within the League and reinforce their commitment to making a difference in the community.

Finding Inspiration: A Sustainer Day at the Keen Collection
JLP Sustainers visit the Keen Collection of Outside Art in Philadelphia

 

“One ought, every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture…” — said Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

The Sustainer day trip on October 16 accomplished seeing a fine picture, as Goethe suggests. About 10 Sustainers gathered to view the Keen Collection of Outside Art at the Bethany Mission in the Spring Garden neighborhood of Philadelphia. This private collection is owned by Victor Keen. The artists featured in Outside Art are self-taught and untrained in traditional methods.

The collection includes over 100 works of outside art, as well as several displays of antique radios, toasters, and toys. The tour was led by Molly Dougherty, Development Director, who shared touching stories about the lives and tragedies of the artists. Victor Keen also joined our tour, providing further insight into the art. The Keen Collection is truly a gem in the Philadelphia art community.

Spooky Finds: Halloween Shopping at the JLP Thrift Shop

By Corienne Myslinski

For those that participate, Halloween is just around the corner!

It reminds me that I need to decorate, carve a pumpkin, and think about what my costume will be this year. Naturally, this brings me to The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. Thrift Shop to see what’s available. Shopping for Halloween items at the Shop is a great way to support the JLP and reuse decorations and costumes. Plus, when I no longer need these items, I can donate them back to keep the cycle going.

I stopped by the Shop on September 29 and some items that struck my eye were:

These adorable invitations! I am not having a party this year but if I do next year, I have made a mental note to look first at the Shop.

Remind me next time I am here I need to donate some kitchen items so I can buy other kitchen items, like these super cute cookie cutters:

Or look at this unique pitcher and leaf dish:

These photos do not begin to cover all the Halloween items available. The Halloween section is located toward the back of the Shop, near the Lancaster Avenue entrance. While these specific items might not be there when you visit, the Shop always has unique and affordable treasures. As for me, I picked up this felt mask to use while handing out candy this year:

You never know what you are going to find at the JLP Thrift Shop!

Save the Date for Fall Fete, hosted by the JLP Fundraising Committee

When: Friday, October 18, 2024, from 7 to 10 p.m. 

Tickets can be purchased on the membership portal here for $120, which includes two adult beverage tickets and light hors d’oeuvres. This early bird pricing has been extended until Friday, October 11th! 

A ticket purchase does qualify for 2 Ways and Means credits. Angel Fund support is also available should you need a free or discounted ticket to attend, and can be requested on the member portal under Resources < Forms.

What is Fall Fete? Fall Fete is one of Junior League of Philadelphia’s largest annual fundraisers. Proceeds support JLP’s mission and benefit our community partners. The bulk of the funds raised come from the silent auction. The Fundraising Committee’s goal is to raise $8,000 from Fall Fete this year. 

What is the dress code? Cocktail attire. Embrace the nautical theme if you’re willing and able! 

What types of items will be featured at the silent auction? Many silent auction items will be a foodie’s delight! Gift certificates to fantastic restaurants in and around the city will be up for grabs, along with a Nothing Bundt Cakes basket that includes free bundlets for a year and a lifetime coupon! Fitness-related items such as a climbing certificate to REACH climbing or Club Pilates-Rittenhouse will also be featured. Want to get the kiddos out of the house? Bid on a one-year family membership to The Elmwood Park Zoo. 

What is Fundraising Co-Chair Ashley White most looking forward to at this year’s Fall Fete? The location and the views! 

JLP Hosts Events to Celebrate 20th Anniversary of its Thrift Shop in Ardmore

The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. is delighted to celebrate a milestone that truly marks a part of our legacy – 20 years of the JLP thrift shop operating in Ardmore, PA. Over the past two decades, the shop has established itself as a shopping destination, and according to the thrift shop’s website, has won awards and recognition from organizations such as The Philadelphia Inquirer, Main Line Life, and Main Line Today.

Potentially a reason why the shop wins local awards is because of the amazing items that are donated, making every day an opportunity to find something interesting. Suzanne Farley, the Manager of the thrift shop shared that once someone donated a Picasso Print that was authenticated and sold through Freeman’s Auction House.

In celebration of the 20th anniversary, Junior League members were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Thrift Shop Committee. There was food, fun, and guest speakers who discussed topics like closets, clothing, and undergarments. Shannan Allen, known as The Closet Consultant, helps women create a style that demonstrates their unique gift to the world and their brand. Karima Renee, known as The Philly Bra Lady, is a lingerie educator helping women navigate the vast landscape of bras and finding the perfect fit.

Cheers for 20 years in Ardmore and beyond!

JLP Members Represent at National Junior League Development Conference

During the weekend of August 16, JLP members Joan Allmaras, Victoria Denaro, and Sarah Hoang attended the Junior League’s Organizational Development Training conference in Norfolk, Virginia. “It was an incredible opportunity to discover how the Junior League empowers women and strengthens communities,” Victoria said.

Organizational Development Training (ODT), previously known as the Organizational Development Institute, is a specialized conference focused on organizational growth and personal development. Participants choose a specific track and receive the in-depth training needed to excel in their roles.

They spent the weekend connecting with other Leagues and gathering fresh ideas to enhance our own. Victoria said, “We’re excited to share these insights and implement the best ones for our League.”

All JLP Members Invited to the 2024 Annual Meeting

Each year, we hold our Annual Meeting to conduct the most important business of our organization. The Board of Directors, based on recommendations from the Project Advisory Committee, proposes the community work in which we will engage and the fundraisers we will conduct to support our mission. If needed, the Board proposes the adoption of, or amendment to, significant programs and/or policies. After Annual Meeting, members vote electronically on the motions presented.
This year’s Annual Meeting will take place on April 15 at the Warwick Hotel in Center City. The Placement Fair and Cocktail Hour begins at 6 p.m. with the Annual Meeting following at 7 p.m. All New Members, Actives, Transfers, and Sustainers are welcome. This event counts as an Annual Meeting credit to those in attendance.

Members are required to review the Voting Packet prior to the event. Please see you email for more details.

Additionally, we will also be collecting food items at Annual Meeting to support the Garden of Health Food Drive. See the JLP calendar for more information on the specific items needed.  

We’re looking forward to seeing everyone at Annual Meeting!

Announcing the 2024-2025 JLP Board

The Nominating Committee is excited to announce the Junior League of Philadelphia Board for the 2024-2025 League year:

  • President, Kate Hall
  • President-Elect, Pam Phojanakong
  • Secretary, Adrienne Taylor
  • Director of Development, Victoria Lynch Mullane
  • Parliamentarian, Jenn Adams
  • Nominating Chair, Natalie Caldwell
  • Treasurer, Rose Cuozzo
  • Chief Operating Officer, Erin Nanovic
  • DEIB Chair, Jennifer May
  • Assistant to the President, Jacqui Rothera
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