Join a Legacy of Service, Friendship, & Impact
As a member, you’ll be part of a vibrant organization with a rich tradition of service and sisterhood. Through hands-on volunteer work, meaningful fundraising efforts, and strong partnerships with local nonprofits, we strive to meet the evolving needs of those in our community.
Service.
JWL members receive unique opportunities to serve and make an impact in our community.
Through our long-standing history of more than 70 years, the League has established trust with a network of charitable organizations in York County. As a result, our members have direct access to unique volunteer opportunities throughout the year.
We get to know leaders of our local nonprofit network here in York County at our monthly meetings. By inviting representatives from these organizations to come share information about their mission, outreach, ongoing needs and service opportunities, members learn about who they’re serving with their time, energy, dedication and donations.
Together, we are active volunteers, fundraisers, and community partners. As individuals, members also have the opportunity to grow as leaders, take on meaningful roles, and develop skills that extend beyond service with the League.
Friendship.
We believe in lifting each other up, celebrating wins together, and building lasting friendships along the way. Our members are united by shared values and a commitment to giving back — and that includes caring for each other, as League members and as friends. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, building your career, or starting a new chapter, you’ll find encouragement, laughter, and lifelong friendships here.
In addition to group service activities, JWL social events offer the chance to relax, recharge, and connect outside of volunteer work. Whether you’re new to town or have deep local roots, these social gatherings help foster community and belonging among members, and include:
- Kickoff Socials to welcome new members and start the year off with excitement
- League Ladies’ Nights at local restaurants, wineries, and member homes
- Ladies Golf League and opportunities to explore new hobbies
- Coffee Meetups & lunch dates that make it easy to stay connected
- Holiday Parties to celebrate the season together
- Family-Friendly Gatherings that welcome families to join the fun
Impact.
The League organizes signature events and initiatives to raise funds that are vital for us to give back in impactful ways. Every dollar we raise is rooted in our desire to create meaningful change. The funds we generate go directly toward grants and support for nonprofits that serve children, families, and those in need.
In the last 15 years, the Junior Welfare League has proudly donated over $500,000 to local nonprofits, schools, and community programs throughout York County. These funds have supported critical services and resources for women, children, and families in need—ranging from educational tools and health initiatives to basic necessities and emergency support.
Members are involved in planning and participating in annual fundraising events, which include:
- Large-scale events, like our Sip and Stroll in Old Town Rock Hill (fall 2025, coming back for fall 2026!)
- Done-in-a-day service projects, like our golf simulator fundraiser at 19th at the Warehouses (spring 2026)
- General fundraising events to support local businesses as they donate a portion of sales to nonprofits in our community
Become a member.
Membership is granted by invitation. If you know a current provisional or active member, or a sustainer, they can nominate you for membership. You can also attend an informational meeting to receive an invitation to apply. If you are unable to attend an informational meeting, let us know you’re interested by completing the New Member Interest Form. Completing this form does not obligate you to apply.
FAQ
What are the qualifications for membership?
A potential new member may be considered for membership if she:
1. Possesses qualities based on high standards required of members since the origin of the Junior Welfare League, Inc.
2. Is not younger than 23 years of age at the time of proposal.
3. Is a resident of the Junior Welfare League’s admissions area at the time of the Provisional Course. Persons having had legal residence in the York County area for a much longer time with temporary residence elsewhere is not required to meet this qualification for eligibility.
4. Meets the following membership criteria:
- Demonstrate an interest in volunteerism.
- Demonstrate an interest in developing and expanding her voluntary community participation.
- Demonstrate her commitment to community service.
- Possess high moral standards.
5. Has completed the application in full and submitted the $50 application fee by the deadline.
What is a provisional member?
Provisional members are in training to become effective League members during a one year preparatory period, in which they are required to participate in educational and service activities as part of the provisional course. These must be completed for active member status to be achieved at the Spring Dinner (in May). Provisional members are required to attend meetings, but they may not vote or hold office during the provisional period. Provisionals may, however, serve on a committee in support of service, admissions, social, or fundraising efforts.
What is involved in the provisional year?
The provisional period is an essential part of new member acclimation, which includes a mini retreat (led by the Education Chair) and attendance at monthly meetings. In addition, provisionals are responsible for coordinating a group service project (“Done-in-a-Day”) to raise funds for our small grant recipient. For more details around provisional requirements, complete the New Member Interest Form or email jwlyorkcounty.admissions@
What if I am unable to complete the provisional requirements?
If a provisional member is unable to begin or complete her provisional course, she may be granted an extension of up to one year. She will be reinstated at the beginning of the next provisional year and will complete the course in full with that provisional class. Any previously met provisional requirements will not exempt her from the current provisional course she has assumed, but provisional membership dues ($150) are paid only once.
What expectations are required of active members?
In addition to attending General Meetings held monthly (Aug-May), members are expected to complete required service hours and participate in JWL fundraising efforts, which include ticket sales and day-of placement for our large-scale events (e.g., Sip and Stroll in Old Town Rock Hill). Additionally, members are expected to make a reasonable effort to attend social events and gatherings. Membership dues must be paid annually.