2016: A Community Endowment

Founded in 1925 by 12 forward-thinking women, The Junior League of Houston has built an exemplary record of charitable achievement. The League's reputation has been forged by its steadfast focus on service to and financial support of the community through trained volunteers.

Building off of the League's charitable and educational purpose as stated in the Bylaws, The Junior League of Houston, Inc. Community Endowment (JLH Community Endowment) was created. At the time, League leadership noted, "fundraising trends suggest that event fundraising may not be as successful in the future. Since some companies, individuals and foundations do not or are restricted from donating to events, the newly established foundation or endowment will be a vehicle in which they may give.”

The creation of the JLH Community Endowment stemmed from a recommendation in the 1998 – 2001 Strategic Plan that set forth the following goal: to maximize our effect on the community by increasing development opportunities. As stated in the report, “the new monies will allow us to maintain and continue to grow the community programs well into the future.” Income generated by this endowment will provide financial support in perpetuity for the organizations and agencies served by League volunteers as well as for programs the League initiates to address recognized community needs.

The plan to diversify the League’s fundraising sources led to the newest, and perhaps boldest, endeavor in its then 75-year history – launching a $10 million Community Endowment campaign in January 2000, as it celebrated the League’s 75th anniversary.