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Member Spotlight: Afia Lewis

In February 2024, Junior League of Philadelphia member Afia Lewis was featured in the Hall of Fame Spotlight at her alma mater, Temple University. Afia, a JLP member since 2023, has made remarkable contributions both as an educator and athlete.

One of the most accomplished sprinters in Temple women’s track history, Afia earned 12 Atlantic 10 Conference titles during her time as an Owl, including being named the 2001 A10 Indoor Championship Performer of the Year. Her outstanding achievements on the track included individual titles in the 55, 100, 200, and 400-meter races, as well as multiple relay victories. She was inducted into the Temple Hall of Fame in 2020.

Beyond her athletic success, Afia has become a celebrated educator in Pennsylvania. She teaches sixth grade at Ardmore Avenue Elementary School and has received recognition from Fox 29 as a Top Teacher in 2017 and honored by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 2019 for her exceptional work. She was also recently featured in the “Sports Legends of Lansdowne” mural, commemorating her legacy in her hometown.

Afia now also brings her passion for education and community to her role as co-chair of the Junior League’s Kids in the Kitchen committee.

 Behind the Scenes with the EVT Committee: How JLP Events Come to Life
Every engaging workshop, insightful panel, and well-orchestrated virtual or in-person event at the Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. (JLP) has one thing in common—the EVT Committee. While their work often happens behind the scenes, their impact is front and center in shaping the learning experiences and connections that define our organization.
But what does it really take to bring an event to life? Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how the EVT Committee makes it all happen—from the first spark of an idea to the final follow-up.
Step 1: Brainstorm & Plan
It all starts with a conversation. The EVT Committee meets regularly to discuss trends, member interests, and professional development opportunities. Whether it’s a workshop, panel discussion, or networking event, they brainstorm topics, identify potential speakers, and shape the event’s goals.
Step 2: Logistics & Execution
Once the idea is set, it’s all about execution. The committee handles outreach to speakers, schedules venues (or virtual platforms), manages registrations, and ensures every detail is covered. They also coordinate marketing efforts so members know what’s coming up and why they should attend.
Step 3: The Event
On the big day, the EVT team is behind the scenes making sure everything runs smoothly. They manage check-ins, support speakers, troubleshoot last-minute issues, and create a welcoming environment for attendees to engage and connect.
Step 4: Follow-Up & Impact
Even after the event ends, the work isn’t done. The EVT Committee gathers feedback, tracks attendance and engagement, and looks for ways to improve future events. They also send thank-you notes to speakers and share key takeaways with members who couldn’t attend.
Every event at JLP is the result of this thoughtful, behind-the-scenes process. Thanks to the EVT Committee’s dedication, our events aren’t just well-organized—they’re meaningful, relevant, and impactful.
Have an idea for an event? The EVT team is always looking for fresh perspectives!
 My Personal Tips, Tricks, and Lessons Learned for Completing Thrift Shop Quota
I joined the Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. (JLP) in 2021, and since then, I’ve been working to streamline my quota process. Since I live about 45 minutes from Headquarters, I always try to make the most of my trips. For example, last August, the Works Committee had brunch in Ardmore. I went to brunch, had my quota in my car, and completed my Thrift Shop shift—all in the same day.
I enjoy completing quota and my Thrift Shop shift in the summer before the League year really gets into full swing. For me, this makes it easier to focus on committee work later in the year. However, if you prefer to wait until later in the League year to do your quota (March/April), you can opt to have your excess quota applied to next year’s requirement.
I wanted to share my process in case it helps someone else make the quota process more enjoyable—or at the very least, as quick as possible. So, let’s get started!
1. Gather and Document Items at Home
At home, I go through my items and create a handwritten copy of the Thrift Shop Quota Sheet before heading to the Shop.
JLP Members can access this form in Digital Cheetah by following these steps:
  • Log into Digital Cheetah from the JLP homepage.
  • Hover over “Calendars & Sign-Ups” until a drop-down menu appears.
  • Click on “JLP Quota Sign-Up.”
  • Click on “JLP Quota Sheet” in the left-hand menu.
In short, you’ll need to write down the number of items you’re bringing along with a general description of the items (e.g., tops, pants, dresses, etc.) and the number of items you’re bringing from each category. Bonus points for getting more descriptive!
My entries typically look like this:
              Tops (4)
                             2 Madewell sweaters
                             2 Athleta racerback tops
              Bottoms (3)
                             1 Gap skirt
                             2 Lululemon running shorts
Other things I do at this stage:
  • Write down the number and type of hangers I need (e.g., four skirt/pant hangers and 11 regular hangers);
  • Use this time to decide if I really want to keep or donate an item;.
  • Check for holes, rips, or stains before donating;.
  • Look through pockets or book pages to make sure I haven’t left anything inside.
2. Separate Items Before Leaving Home
Before heading to the Shop, I separate out what needs to go on a hanger and what can go into a basket. This makes everything more efficient once I arrive.
3. Make Sure I Have Quarters for the Parking Meters
I always remind myself to bring quarters for the parking meters at the Thrift Shop lot. (This has saved me from parking stress more than once!)
4. Double-Check My Headquarters Door Code
I try to remind myself of my Headquarters code before I leave. If I forget, here’s how to find it in Digital Cheetah:
  • Log into Digital Cheetah from the JLP homepage.
  • Hover over “My Membership” until a drop-down menu appears.
  • Click on “My Profile.”
  • Find your AJLI Member ID—the last four digits are your Headquarters door code.
5. Unload and Organize in the Basement
Once inside, I find a clothing rack for my items and, if necessary, make additional trips to my car. Once I’m in the basement of the Thrift Shop, I staple my handwritten list to the carbon copy form and take a picture of my list for personal documentation.
Note: I don’t use quota donations for tax purposes, so I only take a photo to ensure I receive credit for my JLP quota obligation.
6. Get Hangers and Hang Clothes
I collect the right number of hangers before hanging my clothes.
7. Collect and Prepare Tags
At this point, I:
  • Grab the correct number of tags.
  • Rip them apart along the perforation (all at once if possible).
  • Write the size and clothing type on each tag in the order that I hung the items.
This keeps things efficient and makes it easier to stay organized.
8. Tag Items
Using the tagging gun, I attach price tags to clothing.
  • I try to use clothing labels when possible, to avoid damaging the fabric.
  • If there isn’t a clothing tag, I find a discreet but secure place to attach it.
9. Optional: Check the Angel Donation Pile
If I want to tag extra items or make sure I’ve met my quota, I look through the Angel Donation Pile.
Tip: If you have extra items, you can put them in the Angel Donation Pile for another Member to use toward their quota!
10. Success! Time to Browse or Complete My Shift
Once I’m done, I:
  • Take a few minutes to look around the Shop (I almost always find something good!).
  • Complete my Thrift Shop shift (if I scheduled one).
  • Check the meter to avoid a ticket.
I hope this has been helpful in streamlining your quota process! I’d love to hear how other Members complete their quota—what are your tips and tricks?
Press Release: The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. Inspires Community Impact for Volunteer Appreciation Month

Local Volunteers Unite for Spring Service Weekend to Support Environmental and Hunger Relief Efforts

Philadelphia, PA  – It is well-known that The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. (JLP) is a namesake organization for volunteerism. This year in recognition of Volunteer Appreciation Month, The Junior League is asking the public to step up and help make a difference with its nationwide ‘Jump In & Join’ campaign, inspiring others to take action. The JLP is also holding a Spring Service Weekend in Greater Philadelphia for members from April 3 to 6, dedicated to recognizing the importance of volunteerism. Additional internal volunteer events will be held throughout the month.

Photo Courtesy of The Junior League of Philadelphia

“Volunteering is an investment in yourself, your community, and your future,” said The JLP’s President Kate Hall. “Through the ‘Jump In & Join’ campaign, we’re inviting individuals with a drive for success to join us, elevate their impact, and forge connections that will last a lifetime.”

JLP members are also stepping up during Spring Service Weekend, beginning on Thursday, April 3, with volunteers gathering at The JLP’s headquarters to make 200-250 turkey and cheese and bologna sandwiches for Cathedral Kitchen. The initiative ensures individuals facing food insecurity receive a simple yet essential meal. The JLP’s biggest mission of 2025 is reducing food insecurity in Greater Philadelphia to increase quality of life and foster nutrition.

On April 5, at the Riverbend Environmental Center in Gladwyne, PA, The JLP’s Done In A Day (DIAD) committee will host a Pollinator Garden Spring Cleaning Event. Volunteers will devote time to preparing Riverbend’s facility for the spring season, clearing dead foliage and pulling weeds — allowing local ecosystems to thrive as warm weather comes.

Photo Courtesy of The Junior League of Philadelphia
Next on the Spring Service Weekend agenda is meal attendance at Face to Face human services organization in the Germantown section of Philadelphia on April 6. JLP members will prepare sixty meals for the less fortunate. Their volunteer efforts will also include serving meals, engaging with guests, and cleaning up. An additional meal service day with Face to Face will be April 27.

The JLP’s Food to Families Committee has organized members to participate in the SHARE Packing Day on April 19. This year marks a decade of the JLP’s involvement with the Share Food Program, packaging tens of thousands of pounds of food in a day for those in need.

Photo Courtesy of The Junior League of Philadelphia
The JLP’s Kids in the Kitchen (KITK) program is another nutrition-based initiative dedicated to food education. KITK is an after-school curriculum that helps youth fight food insecurity through teaching children how to make healthy meals under the guidance of a teacher. The program starts March 31, and runs for six weeks at six local schools, each lesson focusing on a different recipe.

During Volunteer Appreciation Month, The Junior League of Philadelphia, alongside over 30 service organizations, is challenging individuals to take action. Strong communities are built by those who dedicate their time and effort to service. This month isn’t just about recognition—it’s an invitation to get involved. Initiatives like the ‘Jump In & Join’ campaign and Spring Service Weekend highlight the vital role volunteers play in addressing community needs, from environmental stewardship to food security. By working together, these organizations reinforce the power of collective impact.

For more information on The JLP’s programs and initiatives, please visit their website. Stay up to date with the organization’s events and news by following their Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). For media inquiries and/or interview requests, please contact Grace@PhillyPRGirl.com.

About The Junior League of Philadelphia

The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. (JLP) is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. The JLP welcomes all women who value its mission. They are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations, and communities. Since 1912, The JLP has been committed to addressing the many aspects of health and wellness in underserved communities in the Greater Philadelphia area, whether it’s creating community gardens or providing nutritious meals to families in need. With over 700 trained volunteers who contribute thousands of hours of service annually, the organization empowers women volunteers to make meaningful change happen within the communities it proudly serves.

Social Fun with JLP: Yoga, Jazz, and a Giveback Happy Hour!

Members of The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. have been keeping busy with fun social events this League year!

On November 17, JLP members gathered at YogaSix Rittenhouse for a 60-minute Slow Jams Class, thanks to the Social Committee. It was a great way to move, unwind, and spend time with fellow members. Be sure to check out a social event before the end of the League year!

On December 18, JLP members got together at Cellar Dog for a happy hour and to enjoy some live jazz at one of Center City’s best spots for music. Didn’t make it? No worries—JLP will take Cellar Dog again on March 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. for a happy hour giveback! 15% of food and bar proceeds will be donated to the JLP. Members of the public are welcome.

Sign up on the JLP calendar and don’t miss out on the fun!

Join Us in Making a Difference: Support the JLP Annual Fund!

 

We are excited to share an update on the 2024-2025 Annual Fund’s progress as of January 2025. So far this League year, we have raised $34,000 of our $40,000 goal from 120 donors. This is an incredible start, but we still have a long way to go. With your help, we can keep pushing forward and reach our target. Let’s keep the momentum going and make a real difference together!

Please click here to make your donation today!

If you haven’t made plans to donate this year, here are a few ways you can help:

  1. Make a Donation: The most direct way to contribute is by making a donation. Every dollar counts, and no amount is too small.
  2. Corporate Giving Programs: Did you know that many companies match employee donations or offer corporate giving programs? This is a fantastic opportunity to double the impact of your contribution! If your company participates in a matching gifts program, please consider submitting your donation for a match. It’s an easy way to maximize the value of your support!
    If you’re unsure whether your company offers matching gifts, reach out to your HR or corporate social responsibility department to find out. Some companies even allow employees to choose the charity they want to support, so be sure to mention our campaign!
  3. Ask Friends and Family to Support Our Goals: We can’t reach our fundraising goal without the help of our extended community. Please consider sharing this campaign with your friends, family, and colleagues. Your personal connections can make a huge difference in helping us spread the word and reach new donors.

Here are some easy ways to get involved:

  • Share our campaign on your social media pages.
  • Send a personal email or text to friends and family, telling them why this cause matters to you.
  • Encourage others to donate or get involved in any way they can.

Remember, the success of our campaign depends on the collective effort of everyone who believes in our mission. Thank you for your support!

Won’t You Be My… Placement? It’s Time to Start Thinking About Placement

While it might seem early, now is the perfect time to reflect on the current League year and begin considering your potential placement for next year. Here are some guiding questions that can help you evaluate your placement experience:

How has this year gone? How have I contributed to my committee? How has my committee supported me?

  • What have I enjoyed the most? What aspects did I not enjoy as much?
  • Where have I been most useful?
  • What skills have I gained that I can use within the League? What expertise do I need, and how might the Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. (JLP) help me build it?
  • Have I met my obligations for the League year? What remains, and when do I plan to fulfill those commitments?

These reflections can serve as a guide when attending one of the two Placement Matching Fairs. The first fair is a Virtual Placement Matching Fair on March 12 at 7 p.m. Register now through Digital Cheetah. The second Placement Matching Fair will take place one hour before the Annual Meeting. Both fairs will be highly informative and will feature a raffle!

Placement Matching Tool

In addition to attending a Placement Matching Fair, all New and Active Members must use the Placement Matching Tool within Digital Cheetah to complete the placement process. This tool will be available to JLP New and Active Members from March 14 until April 30 at 11:59 p.m.

To locate the Placement Matching Tool, follow these steps:

  1. Log into Digital Cheetah using your username and password.
  2. Go to the “Resources” tab and hover over it until a drop-down menu appears.
  3. Hover over “Resources” within the drop-down menu.
  4. When a side menu appears, click on “Placement Matching Tool.”

Another helpful resource is the Placement Matching Guide, which is available on the Placement Matching Tool landing page. At the bottom of this page, there is a link to FAQs, which includes a direct link to the Placement Matching Guide.

The Placement Matching Guide helps Members assess their availability and commitment level for their future placement. Using the guiding questions above, the Placement Matching Tool, and information insights gained from a Placement Matching Fair, Members can find the best fit within the League for the upcoming League year.

Important Placement Considerations

Once you begin using the Placement Matching Tool, New and Active Members can revisit and revise their selections until the tool closes on April 30. The Placement Committee reviews each submission and makes every effort to place Members into one of their top three ranked committees. However, placement in one of your top three ranked committees is not guaranteed.

One of the best ways to increase the likelihood of being placed in a desired committee is meeting your current League obligations before April 30 at 11:59 p.m. Make a plan now to complete obligations such as a Thrift Shop shift and Ways & Means credits.

Thrift Shop Shift Obligation

Keep in mind that the Thrift Shop shift requires planning, including signing up in advance, traveling to the Shop, and completing a three-hour shift. If you also plan to fulfill your Thrift Shop quota at the same time, additional organization may be needed.

The Thrift Shop shift requirement has returned to pre-COVID obligations. While extra donations can be used toward Ways & Means credits, they can no longer be used to fulfill the Thrift Shop shift requirement. If you need an accommodation, please contact the Vice President of Membership at membershipdevelopment@jlphiladelphia.org.

Ways & Means Credit Obligation

Meeting the Ways & Means credit requires planning. Active Members can fulfill this obligation by:

  • Donating an extra $100 worth of quota to the Thrift Shop ($100 = 1 credit).
  • Volunteering extra time at the Thrift Shop (1 credit per weekday hour, 1 credit per weekend shift).
  • Participating in a ticketed fundraising event.
  • Donating to the Annual Fund ($35 = 1 credit).

New Members may have specific limitations to earn their Ways & Means credits. Please reach out to your New Member Liaison with any questions about meeting the Ways & Means obligation.

Why Participation in Placement Matching Matters

Completing the Placement Matching Tool is an essential process for New and Active Members. Those who do not participate in Placement Matching will receive a random placement, so be sure to take part in this process!

Questions About Placement?

If you have questions about placement or the placement process, please contact the Placement Committee Chairs, Lauren Woehr and Joan Allmaras, at placement@jlphiladelphia.org.

 

Junior League of Philadelphia Thrift Shop storefront
Spotlighting the Project Research & Development Committee

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!

Press Release: Junior League of Philadelphia Honoring Trailblazing Leadership

Celebrating Black History Month with Past Presidents Aronté Bennett, PhD and Kimberley Brown, PharmD

Philadelphia, PA –  In honor of Black History Month, the Junior League of Philadelphia (JLP) proudly celebrates the groundbreaking leadership of two remarkable women who have helped shape the organization’s legacy: Aronté Bennett, PhD and Kimberley Brown, PharmD. As past presidents, Aronté and Kimberley have demonstrated exceptional commitment to civic engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion. They have played pivotal roles in driving impactful community programs. Their leadership stories reflect the core values of empowering women, fostering volunteerism, and making meaningful community impact.

From left to right: Kimberley Brown, Bertina Whytehead, Adrienne Taylor Photo Courtesy of the Junior League of Philadelphia

From left to right: Kimberley Brown, Bertina Whytehead, Adrienne Taylor
Photo Courtesy of the Junior League of Philadelphia

Aronté Bennett, PhD, Associate Professor of Marketing and Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Villanova School of Business, joined the JLP in 2010 after a personal recommendation from a friend. Bennett quickly discovered that JLP was a transformative space for both personal and professional growth. Bennett served as the first black president in the JLP’s 110-year history from 2020-2021. She played a key role in launching the Kids in the Kitchen® initiative, educating children and families on nutrition and wellness, and establishing a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion taskforce that later became a permanent Board committee. Her experience with JLP empowered her to take on leadership roles in organizations like the Fund for the Water Works and No Name Pops Orchestra, where she continues to advocate for marginalized communities.

Aronté Bennett: Junior League President 2020-2021

Aronté Bennett: Junior League President 2020-2021
Photo Courtesy of the Junior League of Philadelphia

Kimberley Brown, PharmD, Vice President and Global Medical Leader at ViiV Healthcare became involved with the JLP to make a meaningful impact in her new community. During her presidency from 2022-2023, she advocated for the Kids in the Kitchen® program. Brown also championed diversity within the JLP, ensuring inclusive leadership practices. Her leadership in JLP honed her skills in project management, coalition-building, and strategic planning — skills which have been instrumental in her global healthcare work, including developing life-saving HIV treatments and expanding access to healthcare in Africa.

Kimberley Brown: Junior League President 2022-2023

Kimberley Brown: Junior League President 2022-2023
Photo Courtesy of the Junior League of Philadelphia
As we reflect on the history and legacy of Black women in leadership, we celebrate Aronté Bennett and Kimberley Brown for their dedication to service and their commitment to advancing the values of the Junior League of Philadelphia.

On February 23, 2025, the Junior League of Philadelphia will hold a Black History Month celebration at their headquarters in Ardmore, PA. The JLP has invited Dr. Marilisa Navarro, a researcher and professor at Thomas Jefferson University, to facilitate a discussion with JLP members about the significance of food in Black culture, highlighting its role in heritage, community, and identity. Following the discussion, Tif Davis, a Philadelphia artist, will lead a creative affirmation workshop. This engaging session will provide attendees with a space to reflect, express, and celebrate cultural resilience through art.

For more information on the JLP’s programs and initiatives, please visit their website. Stay up to date with the organization’s events and news by following their Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter). For media inquiries and/or interview requests, please contact Grace@PhillyPRGirl.com.

About The Junior League of Philadelphia

The Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. (JLP) is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. The JLP welcomes all women who value its mission. They are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations, and communities. Since 1912, the JLP has been committed to addressing the many aspects of health and wellness in underserved communities in the Greater Philadelphia area, whether it’s creating community gardens or providing nutritious meals to families in need. With over 700 trained volunteers who contribute thousands of hours of service annually, the organization empowers women volunteers to make meaningful change happen within the communities it proudly serves.

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