Community
We’re Focused on What Matters Most in Dane County
At the Junior League of Madison, we live in the moment—which means aligning our work to the community’s most pressing needs. Our focus evolves as Dane County evolves.
Right now, we’re identifying the next unmet need in Dane County and mapping an approach to address it. Since our founding, JLM has stepped in to fill gaps for partner organizations—from hands‑on volunteers to seed funding and planning support.
Preparing a meal at Ronald McDonald House Madison
In the early 1990s, JLM (then the Junior Service League) helped bring a Ronald McDonald House to Madison—recruiting and training volunteers, staffing the office, planning events, and more. Member Jeanne Giroux served on the founding RMHC Board of Directors—exemplifying our vision of trained volunteer leaders having a seat at the table.
Today, our members still serve RMHC by planning menus, purchasing ingredients, and cooking a monthly dinner for families—offering a small taste of home during a stressful time. Learn more about Ronald McDonald House of Madison.
Creating inspiring bulletin boards for students at Cherokee Heights Middle School
How We Create Impact—Together
Our Adopt‑a‑School partnership (2016–2021) supported the Cherokee Heights Middle School community through:
- Welcome‑back chalk art and classroom refreshes
- Thanksgiving meal kits for families
- Funding for a water system in the school’s community garden
Organizing prom dresses at All Dressed Up
For 15 years, our signature event—All Dressed Up—provided free prom dresses and accessories to area teens, complete with a live DJ, make‑up artists, photo booths, and more.
Current Partnerships & What’s Next
As we celebrate our 35th anniversary and look forward, we’re building new partnerships that honor our legacy and expand our impact, including the Madison Reading Project and MYArts.
From Kitchen Tours and Casino Nights to founding board roles and catalytic funding, JLM adapts as our community changes—always with the goal of bettering the women and communities of Dane County.
We’re Creating Fulfilling Leadership Opportunities
JLM offers more than volunteer shifts. We develop trained women leaders who advance social‑impact projects across Dane County. We equip members with local knowledge, leadership tools, and hands‑on experience so they can drive meaningful change.
We’re Transforming Women—and Our Community
Our refreshed three‑year strategic plan centers on member engagement, community collaboration, and the development of trained volunteer leaders. We envision JLM women recognized as influential leaders with a seat at every table where community decisions are made.
Ready to help shape what we tackle next?