FAQs

What is the Junior League?

The Junior League is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

In 294 communities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, Junior Leagues have been the driving force behind the kinds of initiatives and institutions that make communities healthier, more vital places to live such as family literacy, historic preservation, children’s museums, women’s shelters, school readiness, leadership development and more. Each League is affiliated with the Association of Junior Leagues International Inc. (AJLI).

Who Can Join The JLEFC?

The Junior League welcomes all women 21 years and older who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations and communities.

What are the benefits of membership in the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County (JLEFC)?
  • Training for effective community leadership, including advocacy, community research, fundraising, finance, leadership, public relations, and personal development.
  • Working with other women to create positive community change.
  • Insight into community needs and strategies for solutions.
  • Opportunities to serve in League Leadership as Committee Chairs and Board Members
  • Access to community leaders, new friends, and creative ideas.
  • Exposure to creative strategies in problem solving and administration of a non-profit organization.
  • Ability to transfer membership to other Junior Leagues.
What are the member communities of the JLEFC?

The JLEFC welcomes members from across Fairfield County, with the majority of our current membership residing in the following communities: Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Milford, Monroe, Newtown, Redding, Shelton, Southport, Stratford, Trumbull, Weston, and Westport.

How do I join the League?

The first step is attending an Open House where you will receive an application packet. Once you have completed your application, you will be contacted with information about the training.

The “official” League experience begins with a formal training program known as the Provisional period. The Provisional training introduces interested women to the intricacies and expectations of the League. Meeting topics include JLEFC structure, history, organization operations, committee overviews, and facilitation and evaluation of the League’s goals.

After successfully completing the Provisional training, volunteers move on to Active membership and will be placed on one of the League’s various committees.

What is the cost of Provisional training?

Training for the Provisional Class begins in October and continues through to our Annual Dinner in May.  The time commitment includes 2-3 Saturday morning mini-retreats throughout the year, as well as approximately monthly meetings and/or community outreach and fundraising activities.  Meetings will be held at members’ homes, restaurants or other social gathering places.  Sample timeline is as below:

October Retreat: Provisionals will meet for a Saturday breakfast and a history lesson about the League, followed by a tour around Fairfield and Bridgeport of several locations that have benefited from the League’s hard work over the years.

January Retreat: Provisionals will meet on a Saturday to learn about inner League workings: Council structure, policy and procedures.

April Retreat: Provisionals will meet for a few hours on a Saturday to learn about the League’s Committees, and to choose a Committee that suits their individual interests in which to invest themselves during their Provisional year.

Social activities are planned during the year to foster personal connections within the Provisional class.

If I have a full-time job, can I still volunteer?

Yes! The JLEFC’s membership includes executives, community leaders, entrepreneurs, full-time mothers, and professionals. The League has volunteer activities available in the mornings, evenings, and on weekends. Volunteer activities range from attending committee meetings, reading to students at the Thomas Hooker School in Bridgeport, participating at our Community Partner Breakfast, working on and at The Enchanted Castle, and preparing meals for Operation Hope.