www.jlsummit.org
Since its establishment in 1929, The Junior League of Summit
(JLS) has been committed to making a positive impact in our
communities. We have invested more than $3 million in our communities
in the form of grants, projects, programs and scholarships
and contributed more than one million hours of community service.
Our organization is currently comprised of more than 500 dynamic
and talented women as members.
Overall Purpose of Organization
The Junior League of Summit, Inc. (JLS) 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. Its
purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. The JLS
reaches out to women of all races, religions and national
origins who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to
voluntarism.
This work will benefit
The Junior League of Summit is focused on advancing the interests
of children and families in and around the communities of Berkeley
Heights, Chatham, New Providence and Summit, New Jersey.
Comprehensive Description of Organization
The JLS reaches out to women of all races, religions and national
origins who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to voluntarism.
We also routinely partner with other not-for-profit organizations
to help them achieve their goals on select projects.
We are one of 294 Junior Leagues throughout the United States,
Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom and one of eight Junior
Leagues in New Jersey.
Examples of our hands-on approach to building a better community:
Family
Domestic
Violence – After raising more than $500,000,
the JLS gifted those funds to Homefirst (formerly known
as Interfaith Council of the Homeless of Union County)
to establish
two SAFE Homes for victims of domestic abuse and their
families. These were the first transitional housing facilities
for victims
of domestic violence in Union County. Mabie
Playground – The
JLS created this playground in downtown Summit for children
and their caregivers to enjoy.
The JLS has also created several other playgrounds within our
service area.
Childhood Education
Kids on the Block – Through puppetry, the JLS educates
area elementary school students on social issues. Special
Olympics of New Jersey – A partnership created
in 2006 to develop a new sports program for children with developmental
disabilities.
Summit
Speech School – Established by the JLS in 1967,
the School strives to help children who are deaf or hard of
hearing develop the communication skills they need to succeed.
In 2005, the JLS established a “child-friendly” library
for the students.
Children with Illness
Children’s Specialized Hospital – In addition to
raising money for much-needed equipment, the JLS has organized
several “Friday Night Fever” events for patients. Overlook
Hospital Pediatrics Playroom – JLS members
provide “play time” for pediatric patients at Overlook
Hospital in Summit.
General Community Service and Assistance
Larks – The
JLS brings joy to seniors at area nursing homes and senior
centers through musical performances.
Thrift
Shop — Owned and operated by the JLS since 1934,
all of the proceeds from the Shop go directly back into the
community and support the programs listed above. The Thrift
Shop offers new and gently used clothing and shoes for men,
women and children, toys, housewares and furniture. Donations
are welcome and appreciated. Shop Hours are:
Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
The JLS also provides grants to organizations within our community
who demonstrate a need that falls within our focus area.
Organizations that have benefited from our grants in the
past include BRIDGES Outreach, Family & Children’s
Services, The Learning Circle, New Eyes for Needy, Overlook
Hospital Foundation and The Summit Area YMCA.
Donations
Donations can be sent to 37 DeForest Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901
Volunteers
Description of Volunteer Work: Women who would like to positively
impact their community and meet new people
Type: Ongoing
Time Commitment: Varies
Address: Headquarters and Thrift Shop: 37 DeForest Avenue
in Summit
Contact: jlsoffice@yahoo.com
Phone/Fax: 908-273-7349
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