A league of their own

The Junior Service League has sparked philanthropy through it’s shining example of team work, it’s passion for St. Augustine and it’s citizens. From inception, The League has been known for taking on difficult, large-scale projects which meet local needs not being addressed by any other group.

Perhaps the most notable and visible example of The Junior Service League’s works is The St. Augustine Lighthouse, where the Keepers House stood in ruins for over 10 years saved from discussions of demolition in 1981 and the relighting of the lamp post vandalism. The League has directed over 15 years of efforts and over a million dollars of resources to this historic treasure that now stands as a preamble of our community’s charitable spirit.

As young newlywed, Karen Lichter recalls entering JSL in 1989, and fondly recants that, “she was rewarded with the opportunity of working side by side with some of the most talented, detailed, dedicated, and hard working women I ever encountered.” These sentiments are echoed by other past and present JSL members in addition to their belief that serving in this role is small way to give back & highlight how special & giving our community is.

The Lighthouse evolved to become something greater than a National Registry Historic Structure as has The Junior Service League of St. Augustine (JSL). As JSL celebrates it’s approaching 80th birthday it provides a chance to reflect on the philanthropic impact that generations of dedicated woman have left on the landscape of the Nation’s Oldest City. Some of these marks are tangible (and sky high) and other contributions have unfolded in the future of St. Johns County’s youth.

The Junior Service League is comprised of a collective group of 85 dedicated female volunteers that make a five year commitment to serve the community. Each member plays a vital, hands-on role in coordinating a variety of projects and fundraisers and exemplifies the philosophy that volunteerism is a privilege. Annual events enable The Junior Service League to in turn assist local non-profits or in some occasions like Kids Bridge, establish a needed non-for-profit. Annual JSL fundraisers range from The Lighthouse Run, Feel the Wheels and their infamous formal gala which is set to take place at The Lightner Museum on October 18th.

The annual gala is their premiere event with more than 400 guests adorned in ball gowns and formal wear to exemplify each year’s theme. Three floors of The Lightner Museum will be transformed into a Las Vegas mecca mid October, the décor and atmosphere explain why this event is highly anticipated and a sell out. These ladies work tirelessly to raise needed support and fill voids within St. Johns County. As was the case recently when JSL answered a call for a matching grant to champion youth prevention and life skill programs at the local Boys & Girls Club.

The league has served over 35 community charities and logged thousands of service hours. A few of the past and current projects are the Speech & Hearing Clinic, Segui-Kirby House, FSDB, St. Johns County Foster Care, Kids Bridge Family Visitation Center, The St. Augustine Lighthouse, Little Free Libraries, St. Augustine’s Boys & Girls Club, tag! Children’s Museum, The Homeless Coalition and St. Augustine Youth Services.