Are you looking for a place to lend a hand in your community? A locally-committed group of like-minded people with whom you can work to make Downers Grove stronger?
Look no further than the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club. Celebrating 60 years in 2019, the club is a nonprofit organization composed of local women who act as a committed source of emotional and financial support throughout Downers Grove and surrounding areas.
It all began in 1959, when a group of women got together on the second floor of a Park District building that was at Fairview and Maple Avenues, where Hummer Park is now located. The group’s first service project was a “reading hour” at the public library.
Today, community projects include a variety of financial contributions to in-need organizations, annual recognition of educators and student, and community service volunteer efforts.
Last year, through fundraisers and corporate partnerships, the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club raised more than $30,000 to support more than 15 charities impacting local children, high school students, senior citizens, the abused, the homeless, victims of tragedy and families in need.
The group’s efforts support the District 99 Chapter of Operation Snowball, an alcohol and other drug use prevention program focusing on leadership development to empower youth.
Volunteers annually provide Thanksgiving Day meals to local families, wrap presents for needy children during the holiday season, and support the education of incoming kindergarten students at its annual Safety Town School. Other fundraising efforts include Mother & Son Gym Jam, the Downers Grove Handmade Market, and an annual Casino Night.
This fall, in celebration of the club’s 60th year, it will be awarding a $10,000 grant to a deserving local charity or non-profit that shares the mission of supporting community members in need.
The Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club knows that it “takes a village” and we are so grateful for our dedicated members, generous corporate partners and supportive community. We welcome you to impact our community through the power of giving.
Our membership year is September through May. We meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month (3rd Tuesday on months with Holiday conflicts) at 7:00pm at Emmett’s Ale House in Downers Grove.
On September 25, the group will be hosting a prospective member social. To find out more about becoming a member of the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club, to sponsor an initiative or make a donation, visit www.dgjwc.org.
Source: Suburban Life Magazine September 2018