2020/2021/2022 Inductee
Junior League of Little Rock (JLLR) is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. It has been the driving force behind the kinds of initiatives and institutions that make the community a healthier, more vital place to live. JLLR members, reflecting a wide range of backgrounds, interests, and professional pursuits work together to identify unmet needs, forge effective coalitions, and work for change.
The Junior League of Little Rock was organized in 1914 as an auxiliary to the United Charities, forerunner to the present United Way. The group separated from United Charities in 1921 in order to establish its own projects, and in 1922 affiliated with the Association of Junior Leagues International. In 1929, the Junior League of Little Rock was incorporated.
The League’s first project was the Baby Welfare Station, headquartered at the Arsenal in McArthur Park. The center provided medical examinations for infants and pre-school children as well as instruction in health care for mothers. In keeping with League philosophy, the project was turned over to the City of Little Rock in 1937.
The JLLR legacy can be seen throughout the community as they continue to provide volunteers, funding, and leadership support in an effort to establish long lasting projects. Many of the city’s cherished organizations were established or founded in part by the visionary and effective leadership of League Members, including Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Potluck, Gaines House, Volunteers in Public Schools (ViPS), and Riverfest, just to name a few. While their history is something they celebrate, they know their work is not done.