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Junior League of Greater Orlando Named One of Top Leagues Internationally
Volunteer Organization’s Work Receives The Association of Junior Leagues International Honorable Mention for “Vision” at 88th Annual Conference

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 22, 2010) – The Junior League of Greater Orlando (JLGO) was one of only a few Leagues worldwide honored at The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) 88th Annual Conference in Orlando this weekend for its “Vision”, mission-based strategic planning efforts and work in the community over the past 18 months.

For JLGO’s efforts researching member wants and needs, identifying and rectifying a decline in membership engagement, revamping its strategic annual plan and committing to a new program for the Central Florida area devoted to childhood health, hunger and poverty, Junior League of Greater Orlando was awarded the “Vision Award” Honorable Mention and cash from The Association of Junior Leagues International at an April 17 banquet.

Through its annual awards program, AJLI celebrates the outstanding accomplishments and significant contributions that Junior Leagues make both internally within the 293 individual Leagues and externally, working to solve some of the toughest and most urgent problems in their communities.

“Vision ensures the future of The Junior League and gives the organization an opportunity to flourish as a major force in the development of women volunteers and in meaningful and lasting community change,” said AJLI President-Elect Delly Beekman.  “We applaud The Junior League of Greater Orlando for demonstrating 20/20 vision in their successful efforts to fully engage members and develop a strategic plan for the League that had community impact at its core.”

Since undertaking its award-winning mission-based transition effort, JLGO has had a 60% increase in new members, is projecting a membership increase for the next League year rather than a decline, has seen an increase in sponsorships, has expanded its community events such as the popular Kids in the Kitchen Fit ‘n Fun Fest and Harvest Hustle 5K, and has increased its community collaboration with other nonprofits.

“We’ve done tons of research so we can continue making our League stronger.  We’ve gathered members’ thoughts, expertise from community leaders and considered the unique needs of Central Floridians in order to strategically benefit our women and community,” said Stephanie Garris, President of JLGO.  “We’re completely devoted to improving childhood, health, hunger and poverty in Orlando; and this award shows we have a strong plan in place.”

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