NEW YORK, New York – January 30, 2026
In 2026, The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) proudly celebrates the 125th Anniversary of the Junior League Movement, marking more than a century of women coming together to lead, serve, and create meaningful change in communities around the world.
Founded in 1901 by visionary philanthropist Mary Harriman in New York City, The Junior League began as a bold idea to mobilize women as trained volunteers addressing critical community needs. At a time when opportunities for women’s leadership were limited, Harriman believed women could be powerful agents of social change when equipped with education, structure, and collective purpose. Her vision sparked a Movement that has grown into a global network of nearly 300 Junior Leagues and more than 110,000 women dedicated to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.
“For 125 years, The Junior League has empowered women to lead boldly, strengthen communities, and drive meaningful change,” said Melanie Schild, Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Junior Leagues International. “This milestone honors the legacy of the women who built this Movement and celebrates the impact our Members continue to make every day. As we look to the future, we remain committed to developing the next generation of women leaders who will shape stronger, more equitable communities.”
Over the past century and a quarter, Junior League Members have led initiatives addressing some of society’s most pressing needs, including education, health, food insecurity, historic preservation, museums, support for foster youth, and civic leadership development. While each League reflects the unique priorities of its local community, the collective impact of the Movement includes millions of volunteer hours, transformative partnerships, and generations of women equipped with leadership skills to create lasting change.
Throughout the anniversary year, Leagues across the United States and around the world will commemorate this historic milestone through community events, service initiatives, storytelling campaigns, and Member engagement activities that honor the Movement’s legacy while inspiring continued growth and innovation.
“Today, The Junior League is more than an organization. It is a living Movement powered by passionate women committed to service, leadership, and collective action,” Schild added. “We invite women everywhere to join us in carrying this legacy forward and building a brighter future for generations to come.”
ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUES INTERNATIONAL
The Junior League is one of the oldest and largest premier women’s organizations, committed to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. Since 1901, The Junior League Movement has addressed community issues through hands-on projects, partnerships with local organizations, and advocacy efforts.
Through leadership training, community collaboration, and service projects, we Develop Women to Do a World of Good™, making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
Today, The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) is powered by over 110,000 women in 295+ communities across the United States, Canada, Mexico, France, Kenya, and the United Kingdom.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.ajli.org.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT:
Nicole Bergman, VP of Marketing and Communications, AJLI
212-951-8348
