What is the Junior League of Lancaster?

The Junior League of Lancaster is an organization of women committed to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. As part of the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. (AJLI), we are one of nearly 300 Leagues across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the U.K., collectively representing more than 125,000 women.

We welcome women of all races, religions, and national origins who share an interest in voluntarism and community leadership. Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

Why should I join the Junior League?

Membership offers the opportunity to grow as a leader while making a tangible impact in the Lancaster community.

As a member, you’ll:

• Build relationships with accomplished women from a wide range of backgrounds and professions
• Develop leadership and professional skills such as public speaking, budgeting, fundraising, event planning, marketing, and team leadership
• Collaborate with community partners to address local needs through sustained volunteer work

If you relocate, your membership can be transferred to another Junior League.

Is the Junior League just a social organization?

While social connection is part of the experience, the Junior League of Lancaster is mission-driven. Members develop leadership skills through hands-on, experiential training by leading projects, serving on committees, and working directly with community partners.

I’m ready to join — how do I get started?

The Junior League of Lancaster welcomes new members twice each League year through structured New Member (Provisional) classes:

• Fall Class: Late summer/early fall
• Spring Class: Mid-to-late winter

All prospective members must submit a New Member Application prior to the first day of Orientation and attend required Orientation activities.

We encourage interested women to:

• Visit our Joining the Junior League of Lancaster page
• Attend a League event or General Membership Meeting (GMM)
• Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to learn more about our work and culture

What is a New (Provisional) Member?

A Provisional Member is a new member completing a period of onboarding and training. This experience provides exposure to the League’s mission, community partnerships, fundraising efforts, and volunteer opportunities, and prepares members for Active status.

What is an Active Member?

Active Members have completed Provisional requirements and continue developing as volunteers and civic leaders. Actives:

• Serve on a committee
• Support community partnerships and League operations
• Participate in fundraising efforts
• Maintain Active status by fulfilling annual membership obligations

What is a Sustaining Member?

After at least eight years of Active service, during which a member has met all Active membership requirements, a member may elect to transition to Sustaining status. Sustainers remain involved with the League through fundraising, advisory roles, and, in some cases, committee support, but are not subject to the same annual requirements as Active members. Annual dues still apply.

Sustainer Emeritus status is automatically granted at age 80 and is exempt from annual dues.

How much time is required to remain Active?

All Active members serve on a committee. Time commitments vary by placement and are discussed during the annual placement process, where members indicate their availability. There is no minimum hourly requirement.

Optional volunteer opportunities, socials, and Done-in-a-Day (DIAD) activities are offered throughout the year.

What is my financial obligation?

• Active Members: $150 annual dues (due by June 1)
• Sustaining Members: $85 annual dues (due by June 1)
• Sustainer Emeritus: No dues required

Payment plans are available for Active members. Dues may be paid online or by check. Details are shared during Orientation and placement.

What role does my Advisor play?

Advisors support members throughout the League year by:

• Sharing reminders about meetings and events
• Answering questions about placements or requirements
• Helping ensure a positive and successful membership experience

When are meetings held?

The Junior League of Lancaster hosts monthly, in-person General Membership Meetings (GMMs) from September through June, typically on the first Monday of the month. Meeting locations vary within Lancaster County.

While two excused absences are permitted per year, Provisional and Active members are expected to attend and participate in all GMMs. Committees also meet monthly on schedules set by committee leadership.

What’s the best way to meet other members?

Attending GMMs and committee meetings is a great start. Members also connect through:

• Done-in-a-Day (DIAD) volunteer opportunities
• League-wide events and fundraisers
• Social gatherings hosted by committees

What is the dress code for meetings?

The Junior League of Lancaster is generally casual. You’ll see everything from comfortable, everyday attire to business casual. Members are encouraged to dress in a way that feels comfortable and appropriate for the meeting or event.

Where is the Junior League of Lancaster headquartered?

Our headquarters is located in the Carriage House on the grounds of President James Buchanan’s Wheatland at 1130 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603, with on-site parking available.

I still have questions — who should I contact?

We’re happy to help. If you have questions not addressed here, please contact our Membership Committee.