New Member FAQ

Why join the Junior League of Charlottesville? 

The Junior League of Charlottesville (JLC) is made up of a group of women working together to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and improve our community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Any woman interested in supporting this Mission is invited to join the League in serving the community. 

For more than 90 years, the JLC has proudly served the Charlottesville area by providing over $1 million and nearly as many hours of service. You can visit Our History to learn even more. The JLC is proud to partner with other nonprofits in our community through our recurrent volunteer activities, Community Partners program, and grants program. 

Last year, the JLC awarded $10,000 in community grants and countless volunteer hours—including work with the Boys & Girls Club. Members also led several skills trainings and organized many social events to foster community. 

The JLC provides members with opportunities to increase involvement in Charlottesville and the surrounding communities by volunteering with our partner organizations, learning from community mentors, and sharing experiences with other JLC members. 

 

What is the JLC’s commitment to equity? 

The JLC welcomes women of all backgrounds who value its Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations, and communities. 

The JLC is a part of the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI). The AJLI condemns discrimination, racism, and racial injustice in our communities and in our organization. Black women and other women of color have been systemically denied equity and inclusion in our economy, education, civic privileges, and responsibilities in the voluntary sector, including in the Junior League. As affirmed by our member Junior Leagues, the JLC is accelerating its efforts to take action and advance definitive, measurable policies and practices that eliminate racism in our countries, our communities, and our Junior Leagues. When we do this, we unlock tremendous power for our communities and realize our vision of women around the world as catalysts for lasting change. Contact diversity@jlcville.org for further questions. 

 

How do I apply? 

Please review the Provisional year requirements (outlined below). If you are able to meet these obligations, all you need to do is complete the application form, which will go live November 15, 2023!  

 

Do I need a sponsor? 

No! The JLC seeks to include all women who are interested in service and community. We celebrate diverse perspectives and experiences in our membership. 

 

What will my Provisional year look like? 

During your Provisional year, you will have opportunities to learn about the JLC’s Mission and impact by volunteering with a range of partner organizations. You will also have opportunities to socialize, build new relationships with fellow members and community partners, and complete member trainings on a range of topics—from diversity, equity, and inclusion to financial planning. 

 

What do the social aspects of JLC Membership look like? 

The Provisional program combines education about our Mission-based trainings and opportunities to build community with members. Throughout the year, we will host events in formal and informal settings where you can socialize as a Provisional class and with current members. Past socials have included charity bingo nights, holiday mug exchange, book club, hikes, wine tastings, escape rooms, and movie nights. 

 

What are the financial obligations to join the JLC? 

The financial obligations for the JLC are currently as follows: 

  • 2023–2024 One-time Provisional Fee: $50 
  • 2023–2024 Fall Start (Annual) Membership Dues: $180 
  • Spring 2024 Spring Start Membership Dues: $90 

Provisional dues and fees must be received by August 31 for the fall Provisional cycle and December 31 for those entering in the spring Provisional cycle.  As an Active member, dues for the following League year must be paid by April 1. Flexible payment plans are available. 

 

What are my requirements during my Provisional Year? 

Requirements change from year to year. The 2023–2024 Provisional requirements are as follows: 

Complete before December 31, 2023 for Fall Provisionals and May 31, 2024 for Spring Provisionals: 

  • Attend Provisional Orientation
  • Pay Provisional Dues due at orientation (including the one-time Provisional Fee of $50) 
  • Attend Provisional Membership Meetings (PMMs) 
  • Attend one or more General Membership Meetings (GMMs) during your Provisional period 
  • Participate in the League’s fundraisers 
  • Effective participation in a spring placement if the member participated in the fall cohort

Are there any dates I should save?
Yes! 

Orientation (choose one date) at the Provisional Chair’s House. All dates will also have the option for virtual attendance: 

  • Thursday, January 4, 6–8 p.m. 
  • Wednesday, January 10, 6–8 p.m.

Provisional Membership Meetings will be held in Charlottesville beginning at 6 p.m.: 

  • Fall TBD, but roughly once a month Sept – Dec 
  • Spring TBD, but roughly once a month Jan – April 

General Membership Meetings will be held in Charlottesville beginning at 7 p.m., with a social half-hour starting at 6:30 p.m., on the following dates:

  • Thursday, September 21 
  • Thursday, November 16 
  • Thursday, January 25 
  • Thursday, March 21 

Organized Provisional Socials/Placement in a Day (PIAD). Times and locations vary, and while not mandatory, we highly encourage all provisional members to take advantage of these opportunities to meet other members. 

  • Late September: Meet the Fall Provisionals
  • October: PIAD 
  • February: Meet the Spring Provisionals 
  • March: PIAD 
  • May: Provisional End of Year BBQ for both Fall and Spring Provisionals