The Junior League History
Nearly a Century of Community Service

An ancient proverb says, “Tell me, I’ll forget. Show me, I may remember. But involve me, and I’ll understand.” For almost 100 years, Junior Leagues have worked to foster a spirit of involvement to improve  communities. The Junior League can take pride in a history that is rich and inspiring – one that is rooted in the belief that a group of women can be a powerful force for change.

Mary Harriman, a 19-year old New York City debutante with a social conscience, founded the first Junior League in 1901. Moved by the suffering she saw around her, Harriman mobilized a group of 80 other debutantes to work at a settlement house in lower Manhattan. Mary Harriman’s vision for improving communities by using the energy and commitment of trained women volunteers caught on. The second Junior League was started in Boston in 1907 and was soon followed by the founding of the Brooklyn Junior League in 1910. And the rest is history…

1910s   The concept of Junior League voluntarism spread west. The Portland, Oregon League was founded in 1910, becoming “fourth in the nation, first in the West”.

Junior Leagues began to focus their efforts on the social issues of women, children and families. From suffrage for women to foster homes for children, leagues led the action. The Junior League of Brooklyn successfully petitioned the Board of Education to provide free lunches in city schools.

When World War I began, Junior Leagues looked for ways to support the war effort. Junior League members across the country sold Liberty Bonds, worked in Army hospitals and drove ambulances. The San Francisco Junior League formed a motor delivery service that served as a model for the nationwide Red Cross Motor Corps. Junior Leagues performed war work under the supervision of existing organizations, notably the Red Cross, YWCA and Salvation Army. Over 100 Junior Leagues women served overseas with a women’s service unit.

The Junior League National Bulletin was published in 1911 as a communications link between League members, becoming the Junior League Magazine in 1927. Published nine times a year, it was sold on the newsstands in the 1920s and 1930s as a journal of “youthful opinion”.  In 1912, the need for mutual support from sister Junior Leagues triggered the first Junior League conference. Also in 1912, the first Junior League outside of the US was established in Montreal, Canada.

1920s    Junior Leagues spread rapidly in the 1920s and so did their innovative programs. As issues grew in complexity, Leagues received the support of a professional staff.

In 1921, Junior Leagues joined together to form the Association of Junior Leagues of America. A special conference in New York was attended by 24 Leagues; Dorothy Straight was elected as the first Association president and a nine-member Board of Directors was established.

The Junior League of Chicago pioneered children’s theater and the idea was taken up by more than 100 Leagues across the country.

1930s    During the Depression, Junior Leagues responded to the nationwide economic hardship by operating baby clinics, day nurseries for working mothers, birth control clinics, training schools for nurses, nutrition centers and milk stations. As the national crisis grew, increasing numbers of women looked for ways to contribute. Leagues established volunteer bureaus to recruit, train and place much-needed volunteers in the community.

As part of League efforts to promote awareness of child welfare needs, four Leagues developed the first State Public Affairs Committee for the State of Virginia. The involvement of Junior Leagues in welfare issues was so great that by 1935 there were five social workers on the Association staff as field consultants. Junior Leagues also became active in opening thrift and salvage stores, as both a public service and a means of fund-raising.

In 1930, the Junior League of Mexico City joined the Association.

1940s    During World War II, Junior League members played a major role in the war effort by chairing hundreds of war-related organizations in virtually every city where Junior Leagues operated. League members became leaders in the military. Oveta Culp Hobby, of the Houston League, commanded the Women’s Army Corps, and Montreal League members commanded the Canadian Women’s Auxiliary Air Force.

Leagues continued their groundbreaking work outside of the war effort as well. In 1948, the Louisville League financed and helped staff a cancer clinic, believed to have been the first of its kind. As the concept of volunteer service spread over the country, League membership continued to grow.

1950s     The Association focused its efforts on educational and cultural projects. As many as 123 Leagues were involved in remedial reading centers, diagnostic-testing programs and programs for both gifted and challenged children. By the end of the decade, Junior Leagues were involved in 316 arts projects, and in several cities collaborated with the William Hornaday Foundation to establish children’s museums.

Concerned about the quality of commercial television, Junior Leagues helped pioneer educational TV and were among the first to promote quality programming for children. Several Leagues produced weekly live shows featuring panel discussions among teenagers.

Internationally, Junior League projects were making an impact. In 1952, the Mexico City League created and opened the most comprehensive, internationally recognized center for the blind in the Spanish-speaking world. Helen Keller visited the center and praised its accomplishments.

1960s     Junior Leagues added environmental issues to their agendas with the Junior League of Toledo’s production of an educational film, Fate of a River, which detailed the problems of water pollution.

Leagues also established programs addressing the educational, housing, social service, and employment needs of urban residents. Several Leagues formed community advisory boards to increase their awareness of the communities’ needs, to broaden their base of support and to expand their access to resources.

1970s   Membership diversification became a priority of the Association with the adoption of its statement that the Junior Leagues “reach out to women of all races, religions, and national origins”.

The Association expanded its participation in issues of public affairs, including child health and juvenile justice. In 1973, the Association focused

on efforts to improve the system of criminal justice in partnership with the National Commission on Crime and Delinquency and the Justice Department.

Department. Approximately 180 Junior Leagues participated in the four year program. Many Leagues also became involved in the CASA Program (Court Appointed Special Advocate). As court-appointed volunteers, Junior League members followed a clearly defined role as a “friend of the court” and advocate for minor children.

The Association also introduced the highly popular Volunteer Career Development Program, incorporating self-assessment and life-planning seminars as a means of helping women achieve personal career goals. Ten Leagues joined the Edna McConnell Clark Foundation in a demonstration project to help active senior citizens work as advocates for other seniors.

1980s  Diversification training programs supported the Association’s goal of reaching out to women of all races, religions, and national origins. Throughout the United States, Junior Leagues gained recognition for national advocacy efforts aimed at improving the nation’s child welfare system. Leagues were also credited with helping to gain passage of the first federal legislation to address the growing crisis of domestic violence.

With the development of a campaign called Woman to Woman, Leagues actively addressed the impact of alcohol abuse on women. Over 100 League communities convened at a national conference that addressed this serious, often hidden, health threat to women.

The Canadian Federation held the first Junior League sponsored national conference to focus on violence against women. In 1985, the admission of the Junior League of London made Great Britain the fourth country in the Association.

In 1989, the Association, now the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI), was presented with the U.S. President’s Volunteer Action Award.

1990s    The 1990s has been a strong collaborative decade, where Leagues created partnerships with local community groups, as well as collaborations with one another. In 1991, the Leagues focused on child health when 230 Leagues mobilized for Don’t Wait to Vaccinate, an AJLI public awareness campaign to encourage early childhood immunization.  Seventeen Leagues participated in a White House dialogue to explore ways to improve maternal and child health. Addressing the growing complexity of leading and managing today’s non-profits, AJLI introduced new publications to help Leagues maintain their effectiveness. Among the new publications, “Building Blocks for Multicultural Development”, is a comprehensive guide to developing a multicultural organization that draws on the experiences of the Leagues.

In 1992, a new Resolutions process gave Junior Leagues the authority for adopting AJLI External Policies. And in 1998, Junior Leagues adopted a Plan of Action to support the External Policy on “Domestic Violence Against Women and Its Effect on Children”.

In 1995, the opportunities to collaborate went global when the Junior League of Buffalo was invited to the UN’s Fourth World Conference on Women to make a presentation about their strategies for the empowerment of women and families through literacy programs. In 1998, AJLI and the Canadian Federation were honored to present workshops on women’s leadership development at the 15th Bicenntenial meeting of IAVE.

To position the Junior Leagues within the global electronic community, the new AJLI web site was launched in 1998.

As the decade comes to a close, the Association of Junior Leagues International, with its collective strength of 295 Leagues, prepares for the new millennium and for the Junior League’s second century of service.

2000 In 2000, with nearly 2000,000 members in Canada, Great Britain, Mexico, and the U.S., the 296 Junior Leagues of The Association of Junior Leagues International begin to plan for the Centennial celebration in 2001 of the Junior League movement.

HISTORY OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF
JOHNSON CITY, TENNESSEE, INC.

1947-1948

* Twelve young women met at the home of Mrs. Allen Harris, Sr., in order to organize the Junior Auxiliary. These charter members invited Mrs. Hanes Lancaster, Sr., Mrs. E. Haynes Miller along with Mrs. Harris to serve as their sponsors.

* From the beginning the major concern of the Junior Auxiliary was to provide a service to the underprivileged children of Johnson City. To finance their projects they opened the Thrift Shop, which continued to be the primary source of income for community projects for more than forty years.

1948-1949

* Circus Cabaret was held for funding community projects.

1949-1950

* Speech and Hearing Clinics and an eye testing program were started in the schools.

* Snack Bar was opened at the Memorial Hospital and helped to equip the Pediatric Wards.

* The members assisted in operating the Girl's Club, sponsored activities at Teen Town, and supported the city recreation program.

1950-1951

* Horse Show was held.

* Became affiliated with National Association of Junior Auxiliaries.

1951-1952

Not Available

1952-1953

* During this time the Junior Auxiliary was actively involved in establishing a mental health program for Washington County and laying the foundation for a Mental Health Center.

1953-1954

* The first Follies made a net profit of $3,250 which was used to help establish a Child Welfare Clinic.

1954-1955

* The Junior Auxiliary made its initial financial contribution of $2500 to the Mental Health Center.

1955-1956

Not Available

1956-1957

* This led the opening of the center in May, 1957. $2500 was pledged to the Center for the next four years.

1957-1958

* Money was pledged for furniture for the Mental Health Center.

* $1700 was given to the new Teen Town, a recreation center for Johnson City youth. Chaperones were provided every Friday night.

* The Thrift Shop realized a net profit of $1600.

* $60 was donated to the Juvenile Court for clothing and haircuts.

* A Fall Fashion Show and Doll Project were also held this year.

1958-1959

* The Dental Clinic was helped.

* The Junior Auxiliary resigned from the National Association of the Junior Auxiliaries and subsequently became the Junior Service League, Inc. The constitution was rewritten to comply with Junior League requirements should it wish to apply for National Junior League status in the future. The purpose of the Junior Service League was redefined so that it included social, cultural, educational, civic, and financial services to the city and the surrounding area.

1959-1960

* Purchased the $12,000 lot upon which a new building for the Mental Health Center would be constructed.

* Published the cookbook, Smoky Mountain Magic, which has been reprinted several times.

* Began an art appreciation course in the city schools.

1960-1961

* Sponsored a children's play as a community service.

* Continued covering the expenses of one child at Tennessee School for the Deaf.

* Sponsored an arts and crafts program at Teen Town with volunteer teachers provided.

1961-1962

* The Mental Health Center opened its newly completed building on the site donated by the Junior Service League. It continues to be the major welfare project of the Junior Service League and has been the most comprehensive Mental Health Center in the state.

1962-1963

* The First Fine Arts Festival and Music for Children series was held.

* The Thrift Shop moved to a new location.

* The Annual Fashion Show and Doll Project were continued.

* The Great Books courses were sponsored.

* The Second Follies, "Mountain Mischief", was produced.

* Transported indigent school children to Welfare Dental Clinic.

* Staffed the welfare clinics at Memorial Hospital.

1963-1964

* $5000 proceeds from the Follies this year was donated to the Mental Health Center.

* Entered the program of Recording for the Blind, Inc.

1964-1965

*Establishment of Scholarship Fund for East Tennessee State University.

* Sponsored receptions for the opening of exhibits at the B. Carroll Reece Museum.

* Annual contributions continued for the Mental Health Center – and a lot was purchased for $4000.

1965-1966

* Annual contribution for the Mental Health Center was increased to $3500.

* Covered expenses for a student at Tennessee School for the Deaf.

* $300 was given to Humanities Seminar at Science Hill High School.

* A Teaching Collection was begun at the B. Carroll Reece Museum.

1966-1967

* Third Follies, "Mini-Mischief" netted approximately $11,500.

* Publication of the first monthly newsletter, League Life.

* First year for "Art Goes to School".

* Supplement added to Smoky Mountain Magic cookbook.

* $400 was given to Humanities Seminar at Science Hill High School.

1967-1968

* In addition to the annual pledge of $3500, an additional $4000 was given to the Mental Health Center. $400 was given to Humanities Seminar at Science Hill High. $3000 was given to the Johnson City Girl's Club. $1000 was given to the Teen Town Building Fund. $500 was donated to the Dawn of Hope Development Center. $1500 purchased four prints to add to the Junior Service League Teaching Collection at the B. Carroll Reece Museum.

1968-1969

* $3000 was donated to the Boy's Club Building Fund. $500 was given to the Dawn of Hope Development Fund. $456 to the Johnson City Rescue Squad.

* Eight original prints were added to the Teaching Collection at the Museum.

* A supplement called "East Tennessee Favorites" was included in the third printing of Smoky Mountain Magic.

1969-1970

* Parks Belk Fashion Show was held to benefit the Thrift Shop.

* Sponsored a Young People's Concert.

* Added two original and twenty-six color reproductions to the Museum collection.

* $6000 was donated to the Appalachian Christian Village. $1500 was donated to the Boy Scouts' new camp. $1000 was donated to kick off the Tipton Haynes Outdoor Drama fund-raising campaign. $3000 was donated to Camp Wildwood, the Girl Scouts’ Camp. Annual pledge of $3500 continued for the Mental Health Center.

1970-1971

* Sponsored three performances of the opera "Hansel and Gretel" in conjunction with the Johnson City Symphony Orchestra for approximately 2400 children.

* $100 was donated to the Juvenile Court. $200 was given to the Special Education Classes in the city schools. $200 provided drugs for indigent patients at the Hospital Welfare Clinics.

1971-1972

* Twenty-fifth Anniversary Tea was held.

* Children's Concert was presented by the Johnson City Symphony with the Holloway Dancing School.

* $1500 was given to the JC Symphony and $500 scholarships donated to Washington College Academy.

* The "Let's Look", an art education program was begun at the B. Carroll Reece Museum.

1972-1973

* "Ms. Mischief", the fourth Follies netted $15,118.

* Hosted the formal dedication of Watauga Area Mental Health Center at 109 West Watauga Avenue.

* $500 was sent to the Jonesborough Civic Trust for restoration of the Christopher Taylor home in Jonesborough. $600 was given to the Johnson City Symphony. Two four-year vocal scholarships were given to ETSU for $600 per year. $7000 was given to the Watauga Area Mental Health Center including money to pave the parking lot. $500 more was given to Tipton Haynes.

1973-1974

* The Thrift Shop was moved again.

* Volunteer guides and a reception were provided for the Artrain.

* A total of $8800 was given to the Watauga Area Mental Health Center. $3000 helped pay for a van for the Girl's Club which was named "Junior".

* Donations were given to fund scholarships to the Red Row Youth Action Council, to the Milligan College Piedmont Chamber Orchestra, and the Washington County Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. These and other donations totaled $3755.

1974-1975

* Yearbook published in loose-leaf form with a permanent cover.

* Sponsored the Inter City Ballet Guild's production of "Hansel and Gretel".

* Sponsored Youth Concert by the Johnson City Symphony.

* $5000 was pledged to the Washington County Association for Retarded Citizens to help establish a group home and respite center. $1500 in scholarships to ETSU and Washington College Academy. $500 to Milligan College Music Department.  $500 to James Agee Film Foundation. $500 to Washington County Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. First of five annual $100 donations to the Tennessee Performing Arts Foundation. Other donations of over $3100.

1975-1976

* Sponsored Reality Therapy Seminar for teacher in-service

* Sponsored a Children's Concert by the Johnson City Symphony.

* Continued $3800 donation, including $300 to the Recreation Fund, to the Watauga Area Mental Health Center. Repeated $1500 scholarships to ETSU and Washington College Academy. Other donations totaled $3300.

1976-1977

* "Dial-A-Story" was begun at the library.

* $2000 was pledged to the Arts Council for the Artists-in-the-Schools program.

* $1000  donated to Camp Wildwood in honor of Mrs. Allen Harris, Sr.

* Two phonic ears, totaling $1100, were donated to the Kings Springs Elementary School.

* Sponsored the production of "Tom Sawyer" at the Community Theatre.

* Promoted the Parks Belk Fashion Show "Design 77" which netted $4665.

1977-1978

* Netted over $4512 from the Fashion Show.

* Donated $4400 to the Watauga Area Mental Health Center, Drug and Alcohol Commission, United Way, Friends of the Museum, Humanities Seminar, Ballet Guild, Johnson City Symphony and the Tennessee Performing Arts.

* $10,000 was pledged to the Library Building Fund.

* $2000 donated to the Johnson City Boy's Club.

* $1000 was donated to the Holston Home for Children.

1978-1979

* The Parks Belk Fashion Show netted $4,149.90.

* The Christmas House was held at Orchard Place.

* Vote was taken for becoming a Junior League.

1979-1980

* Purpose changed to coincide with that of Junior League.

* Ren Fortier conducted a Management-Leadership Seminar.

* Donations included: $2300 to Cart, $2000 to the Boy's Club, $1005 to send three children to the Milligan College Gifted Children's Camp, $700 to the Senior Citizen's Day Care Center, $244 to the Girl's Club.

1980-1981

* Purchased our own building at 213 East Main Street.

* Changed the location of the Thrift Shop to this address and renamed it the Nearly New Shoppe.

* Located cookbook office upstairs in the new building.

* Volunteer Career Workshop was held.

* Qualified for a 501(c)3 tax-exempt, non-profit organization status.

* "Kaleidoscope" by Hallmark Cards was brought to Johnson City for a hands on art program. 3000 children attended, ages 6-12.

* Five films were purchased for $915 to help educate against drug and alcohol abuse.

* Parent Effectiveness Training was offered.

1981-1982

* Adopt-A-Class program was carried out at Stratton Elementary School.

* Helped with open house and seminar for the Council of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center.

* Sponsored three children to the Milligan College Summer Program for Gifted Children.

* Helped purchase a computer for the Sound Waves – Deaf Education Program.

* Provided scholarships to the Young Life summer camp.

* Began Hospice as a project.

* Seventh printing of Smoky Mountain Magic cookbook.

* Application accepted into the Association of Junior Leagues.

1982-1983

* "Just for Kicks", the fifth Follies was produced netting over $20,000.

* Invited past members to reaffiliate their membership prior to joining the Association of Junior Leagues.

* Orientation Programs were carried out as a requirement for becoming a Junior League.

1983-1984

* April 1st, affiliated as the 257th member of the Association of Junior Leagues, Inc.

* Honored the Past Presidents at the first General Membership Meeting as a Junior League.

* Hospice Seminar to educate about the terminally ill patient.

* Joe Waymon's "Left Brain, Right Brain Function" seminar  providing in- service for teachers.

* Annual donation to the Watauga Area Mental Health Center was used to purchase a large screen TV and VCR for use in the adolescent wing at the new Woodridge Psychiatric Hospital. The opening of this hospital is a real milestone for our community and is a definite outgrowth from the League's support of the Watauga Area Mental Health Center.

* New projects begun this year were: Kids on the Block, a puppet show for educating children about other's handicaps and the Hospital Guest House.

* 13th year for presenting "Let's Look", an art education program for area fourth graders. The B. Carroll Reece Museum presented the Junior League with the "Volunteer of the Year" award.

* Public Affairs Committee was formed to promote issues we all support.

1984-1985

* Mercedes Benz Gala was held as a fund-raiser and netted over $18,700.

* First Annual Dinner Meeting as a Junior League was held at Woodridge Psychiatric Hospital with tours of this new facility given prior to the meeting.

1985-1986

* Over $20,000 was given back into the community through the following agencies which we funded: $1350 to the Johnson City Symphony for a children's concert, $200 toward a Senior Citizens van, $5000 continued support for East Tennessee Hospice, Inc., $1000 in furnishing for a room at the Hospital Guest House which will open this year, $5000 to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Program to help foster children move through the justice system easier, $1200 for more puppets used with Kids on the Block, $1200 for "I'm Special" program, which teaches self esteem and was presented in collaboration with Comprehensive Community Services, $3000 for continued support to the Watauga Area Mental Health Services, Inc., $5500 to support the Teen Center Task Force we formed this year.

* Fact Sheet was developed.

* Eighth printing of Smoky Mountain Magic was ordered.

* The new cookbook, Upper Crust, A Slice of the South, was sent for publishing.

* Co-hosted the Johnson City/Washington County Chamber of Commerce Membership Breakfast in April, along with Volunteer Johnson City and the Holiday Inn to honor volunteers.

1986-1987

* Tour of Kitchens netted $1277. Cookbook Kick-Off Party unveiled Upper Crust, A Slice of the South - over 3000 copies were sold during the first month of sales. Junior League was involved in Johnson City Volunteer Week Breakfast.

* Over $21,000 was given back into the community through the following grants and projects: Grants - Food Bank, Homemaker Services, Adult Day Care, Big Brother/Big Sister, Hands On! Museum, CASA, Hospice and Hospital Guest House. Projects - Kids on the Block, I'm Special, Teen Pregnancy Task Force, and Woodridge Hospital.

* Nearly New Shoppe hired a full-time employee to work each day from 2-5 PM.

* "Volunteer of the Month" was initiated by the Nominating Committee.

* Mercedes Benz Gala netted $21,122.

* Junior League was presented with first annual Human Relations Award.

* Membership voted to have Follies in the Fall of 1987.

1987-1988

* "Steppin'' Out", the sixth Follies was produced - netting $25,096. Mayor Chapman signed a proclamation declaring Junior League Day.

* Funds totaling over $18,000 were distributed to 11 agencies in Johnson City and Washington County.

* A 40th Anniversary Tea was held at the home of the President. In collaboration with Volunteer Johnson City, Volunteer ETSU and McDonald's, the Second Annual Volunteer Breakfast was held at the National Guard Armory.

* In collaboration with EXCEL, Johnson City Schools, Kiwanis Club, and the Johnson City Medical Center Hospital, JLJC presented a two-day seminar on dyslexia to teachers in the Johnson City Schools and interested community members.

* The Spring Fashion Show netted $2,578.30.

1988-1989

* Community Funding: $200 to Tired Child Seminar, $200 to Adventure Program (Watauga Area Mental Health Center), $250 to Johnson City Public Schools visiting author program, $1000 to Watauga Area Mental Health Center's Circle Time Nursery, $1700 to Hands On! Museum.

* Special Training: provided area-wide human relations training with day-long seminar featuring Dr. Mirian Hull of the Junior League of Orlando.

* Fund-Raising: Fall Fashion Show netted $4000. Cookbook opened 39 new accounts and initiated "tastings" at local department stores. Membership voted to close the Nearly New Shoppe and sell the property. A five year fund-raising plan was established which provides for Tour of Kitchens, Speaker Series, and Follies on a regular basis.

* Public Affairs: co-sponsored "Getting To Know Your Legislator" program. Surveyed public service candidates and reported to all members. Developed two new position statements: One on teen pregnancy and one on substance abuse.

* By-Laws: voted to require two years of active service prior to becoming a Sustainer.

* Planning: Spent the entire year doing an internal and external analysis. Developed long-range plans.

1989-1990

Nearly New Shoppe sold August 21, 1989 for $31,500.

Established new League headquarters at 3212 Hanover Drive in August, 1989. Signed a two year lease for the office which houses the President/Treasurer's office, cookbook office, storage area, and a conference room/library.

Ninth printing of Smoky Mountain Magic cookbook with 5,000 copies printed.

Over $11,000 contributed to the community through the following grants and projects: $1000 - Kids on the Move, $1811.95 - Watauga Area Mental Health Center's Circle Time Nursery, $875 - Kids on the Block, $2500 - Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening Clinics, $3379 - Hands On! (88-90), $438.60 - Tri-Cities Food Bank, $500 - John Sevier fire victims, $250 - DARE (anti-drug program), $50 - March of Dimes (Walk-A-Thon).

Tour of Kitchens netted $3655. Family Movie Night netted $540. Spring dance featuring the TAMS netted over $5,928. Nearly New Shoppe final close-out sale (2 months) netted over $13,000. Cookbook generated $20,000. First annual fund letter netted $900. First year the Affinity Card (AJLI credit card)  was available to members generated $70. Provided special training:  featuring Dr. Mirian Hull on listening skills, building a training team, and membership motivation and retention; Tonda Strong on board training; and Brenda White-Wright on diversity.

Co-sponsored for the second year "Getting to Know Your Legislators" program and developed a new position statement on the environment.

Held the second annual Circle Time Nursery Christmas party.

Junior League was involved in the Johnson City Volunteer Breakfast for the fifth consecutive year.

Signed a partnership agreement with ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens) regarding the Kids on the Block project.

Membership voted to fund Topper Tots with $7,000 and Adult Day Care with $10,000. Task force formed to study the need and the community support for the Comprehensive Community Center.

Held First Placement Fair so members could choose in-league or out-of-league community placements.

1990-1991

A Community Advisory Board for the League was established. Members included Jim Fields (League Accountant), Melissa McGuire (League Attorney), Joe Muncey, Linda Gordon, David Chupa, Beth Graham, Bob Owens, Frank Adams, Ed Taylor, Nan Miller, Harold Dishner, Lori Caudell, and Tom Torbett.

Special Training - AJLI Director Jean Smith spoke at the September General Meeting and Training Session. She also conducted Board Orientation. November - Dr. Bomar Herrin, Director of Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation, spoke on women and alcohol. February - Dr. Jacqueline Lloyd spoke on aging parents. The first Spring Workshop was held – covering stress management, grief counseling, women, and law and conservation, with Brenda White-Wright as guest speaker. Monday Minis were established – with computer and gourmet cooking mini-courses.

Community Fund-Raising - "Ms. Behavin" seventh Follies produced, netted over $38,000. Other fund-raisers included our annual letter and a wrapping paper sale.

Community Funding - Topper Tots - $10,000, Therapeutic Nursery/WAMHC - $1,148.50, Elizabethton Children's Shelter - $25.00, Senior Citizens' Adult Day Services - $13,000, Hands On! Museum - $1000, Kids on the Block - $807, DARE - $1000, Kids on the Move - $2000, Big Brother/Big Sister - $50, March of Dimes - $50, ARC Respite Care - $1000, Orton Society - $250, Leadership 2000 Youth Award - $250, Camp Horizon - $350, and Cancer Screening Clinic - $2000.

Provisionals sponsored the third annual Circle Time Christmas Party. Junior League was involved in the Johnson City Volunteer Breakfast for the sixth year.

Regular monthly meetings were established for the Executive Board. New board  member responsibilities included being liaison to two other committees. First year with members in Community Placements were very successful. Over 1600 volunteer hours were given to the community by League members.

The Sustainers held two luncheons this year. The first in the Fall was to kick-off our Follies. The Spring luncheon informed the Sustainers of what our League was accomplishing.

URPR (You Are PR) was the theme set for our League. We participated in the Great American Showcase for Kids at Freedom Hall and the Volunteer Fair at The Mall. We also participated in the first annual association-wide public relations project, "Immunization". Attended DARE Awards with city officials to present awards. Cookbook Committee participated in the Chili Cook-Off during Springfest.

The First Annual Service Awards were presented at the May dinner meeting. The Lancaster, Harris, and Miller Award for outstanding community services was presented to Tonie Clark. The Rosalie Jennings Brandt King Award for outstanding in-league and community service was presented to Diane Whitehead.

By-Laws - Voted to allow members to change to Sustaining status after seven years of service. Age limit for active service is 50. League requires two years active service before becoming a Sustainer. A Sustaining member may reclassify to Active anytime before she reaches her 50th birthday.

Second Comprehensive Community Task Force organized to continue study on the feasibility of such a center in Johnson City. A committee was formed to organize a Food Drive in the Fall.

1991-1992

Our focus this year was "Commitment". The Executive Board met monthly at headquarters prior to the Board meetings. Each officer acted as a liaison to the Board Chairpersons. The Board began meeting at Woodridge. Much progress was made within each Committee as follows:

Advisory Planning - Several By-Law and Standing Rule changes were implemented. A By-Law change was enacted to collect split dues in March and April, the reinstatement fee was lowered, and fines were instituted for late payments and returned checks. In addition, several changes were made in the leave of absence procedures and requirements.

Arrangements - We obtained Woodridge Executive Dining Room as the location for all Board Meetings and Wesley Church for our General Meetings. They aided in three board trainings and all General Meetings, including a covered dish, cluster meetings, and a pizza/dress down, as well as all Board Meetings and called meetings.

Community Research - For the first time, a poll was taken at the November General Meeting to determine the membership's project preferences. In March, three budget proposals were presented. A total of fg

$8600 was distributed – (Topper Tots - $5000, Orton Society - $1350, Food Bank - $1400, Speak Up Now Theatre - $500 and Camp Horizon - $350).

Cookbook - Cookbooks’ income totaled $26,000. They began a cookbook exchange with other Leagues. Retail sales were up 24%. A new brochure was printed. Eight tastings and three bulk mailings were completed. They were also interviewed on WJHL First Call.

Education/Training - This committee provided speakers at most General Meetings. Five Monday Minis were offered to the membership. Spring Training was held in March with 50 participants. Education/Training aided the President with the Fall Board Retreat and training for the cluster meetings.

Finance - Money was given out of the discretionary fund to various agencies. Members voted to send our Treasurers to an AJLI training in Orlando. We also voted to reprint cookbook brochures.

Future Planning - Our first Goals and Objectives Workshop was held for all League Chairpersons and was taught by Karen McGahey.

Task Forces - The Goal Centered Approach Task Force was formed as part of our Small League Growth and Development Contract with AJLI. The Comprehensive Community Task Force II completed their study and filed their report.

Kids on the Block - Two new scripts were added, "Children of  Divorced Parents" and "The Gift of Life". “The Gift of Life” premiere was held in October. The group grew from six to fifteen volunteers. Five groups performed in nineteen schools with 74 shows for almost 3000 students. Kids on the Block Chair was placed on the Board for 1992-1993.

Member-At-Large - This was a newly formed position designed to advocate for the membership and to promote esprit de corps. A lunch bunch and dinner group was formed. Member-At-Large developed a skit for the Provisional Tea and provided entertainment at the Board Retreat. "Little Miss Perfect" appeared monthly in League Life. She also lead the first Speak Out in November. She completed exit interviews and helped assimilate incoming transfers and those reactivating.

Membership Development - The Provisional Project was a Christmas Party for the children at Circle Time Nursery. Nineteen Provisionals completed their training and became Active members in May.

Office Manager - New filing cabinets were purchased and a new filing system was implemented. The kitchen at headquarters was converted for Kids on the Block. All membership information, as well as Cookbook, is now compiled on the computer. Publications and Treasury records are also placed on the computer. Regular office hours were initiated.

Placement - This year was spent enhancing a positive relationship within the membership. Great strides were made in a variety of areas. The Community Service Coordinator worked closely with this committee. Placement provided to be the key factor in many of the successes this year. Community placements were Topper Tots, Adult Day Services, Kids on the Block, Hands On! Museum, JC Medical Center, and Volunteer Johnson City. Each Active member gave 20+ hours this year and the Provisionals each did 12+ hours.

Public Affairs - A voters registration drive was held in September. Junior League of Johnson City signed on to the Tennessee Position Statement on Education. We reaffirmed our eight Position Statements. Liz Kalogeros-Webb attended Public Affairs training in Washington, DC.

Public Relations - Business cards were printed for use by all members. JLJC thermal mugs and sweatshirts were sold in order to promote our League. A visual display board was developed. Litter bags were distributed during National Litter Bug Week. JL moms participated in a Fashion Show at The Mall. Two scrapbooks were completed. Numerous articles appeared in the JC Press.

Publications - League Life was published monthly distributing 3600 copies this year. The yearbook was issued at the September General Meeting after nine proofs.

Ways & Means - The major fund-raiser was a dance featuring the Catalinas, netting $7200. A "Phantom Ball" fund letter raised over $800. Bag-A-Bargain will be the major fund-raiser for 1992-1993.

The Rosalie Jennings Brandt King Award for outstanding in-league and community service went to Kerstin Schutt and Beth Whitehead. The Lancaster, Harris, and Miller Award for outstanding community service went to Liz Webb.

1992-1993

Great progress was made by the League this year through the "teamwork" of each committee. Highlights are as follows:

Advisory Planning - Three standing rule changes were voted on and passed by the Board for Cookbook requirements, Placement requirements for Provisionals/Mid-year Actives, and President's Privilege of Membership for all Past Presidents. Four By-Law changes were also voted on and passed by the membership for Sustaining Emeritus for Sustainers eighty years of age or older, dues payment, deletion of the President-Elect as Parliamentarian for the League, and changes in membership. This committee also undertook the task of reorganization of all the Standing Rules for clarity and easier access to information.

Arrangements - Secured site for monthly Board Meetings at Woodridge Hospital and General Meetings at Wesley Church. Provided set up and refreshments at all General Meetings including covered dish dinner, cluster meetings, pizza party, and the Annual Dinner and Awards Meeting. Organized Board Orientation and Board Training site.

Community Funding - Over $12,800.00 was contributed to the community through grants and projects this year. Monies were distributed from the enabling fund, budgeted line items, and community support: Memorial Park Residents Association - $180, Topper Tots - $368.97, Second Harvest Food Bank - $300, Circle Time Nursery - $200, Science Hill High School (Girl's State Representatives) - $800, Keystone Elementary Arts Program - $500, Watauga Area Mental Health - $1000, KOB - $3191.97, Food Bank - $505.80, American Cancer Society - $1800, Good Samaritan Ministries - $1260, Orton Society - $3500.

Community Research - Survey poll was taken in November to find general interest of the League regarding funding interest. Budget proposals were distributed in March for vote by the League.

Cookbook - The committee organized three promotional events and five tastings for the year. Wholesale bulk mailing list was put on the computer, two new distributors, and three wholesale bulk mailings were completed. Cookbook generated total income of $24,000.00.

Education/Training - Provided in-league training for Board Members at the Board Retreat, and for Placement Advisors about cluster meetings with follow-up training afterward, and for this committee on "visioning". Handed out general membership surveys in September with follow-up surveys in November. Provided speakers for General Meetings. Spring Workshop held in March with speakers on professional image, parenting techniques, women and cancer, stress and education in the 21st Century. Monday-Minis were organized for the League.

Future Planning - Liaisons were established between this committee and Chairpersons of all other committees.

Kids on the Block - One new script was added this year, "Birdhouse" is about AIDS and HIV. Premier was held in October.

Member-At-Large - Once again this position was appointed by the President and placed on the Board. Organized lunch and dinner groups, facilitated "speak-out" for the General Meeting in March, conducted exit interviews and wrote articles for League Life.

Membership Development - Provisionals helped with Volunteer JC Breakfast in March. Twenty-seven women completed their training in March and became Actives in May. Provisional course for coming year will be completed by January, 1994.

Office Manager - All Executive Board, Board of Directors, and General Membership Meeting agendas were put on the computer.

Placement - This committee continued rapport and communication between advisors and advisees. They also had to interpret current community service to the League. They facilitated our cluster meetings in October, organized and held fourth annual Placement Fair in April, and conducted placement interviews. The committee made all community placement self-directed as the League moves toward focusing. Community Service Coordinator position to be filled by Placement Co-Chair.

Public Affairs - Directed its attention toward educating members in the area of "focusing". Chairpersons attended AJLI Training Conference on the focusing process. Met with SPAC to discuss the focus at state level.

Public Relations - Promoted community awareness and internal PR within the League. Compiled two scrapbooks, provided advertisement for Bag-A-Bargain and Kids on the Block premier in the JC Press newspaper. The committee sold sweatshirts and mugs at General Meetings. Wrote letters to newspaper for National Volunteer Week in April.

Publications - Nine League Life’s  were published, averaging six pages per issue. Over 3200 newsletters were mailed to members. Advertisements were sold to offset expenses. The yearbook was distributed after seven proofs.

Task Force - Goal Centered Approach Task Force began the work of finding a focus for the League. Survey was developed and sent to local agencies.

Ways and Means - League voted on one major fund-raiser for the year. The first Bag-A-Bargain was held at Freedom Hall in November. Hours were 7 am to 5 pm. Admission was one dollar for all persons 15 and older. After expenses, profits were approximately $17,000.00. In April, the Johnson City Commission voted to allow the League to use Freedom Hall free of charge for the 1993 sale. General Membership voted to hold a second Bag-A-Bargain in November, 1993.

The Rosalie Jennings Brandt King Award for outstanding in-league and community service went to Liz Bushong. The Lancaster, Harris, and Miller Award for outstanding community service went to Cindy Gambrel.

1993-1994

During this year a successful Bag-A-Bargain was held. A “Senior Active” status of membership was approved. This reduced membership requirements for members with 7 years or more of League experience. The League’s present Mission Statement was adopted. “Monday-Mini’s” were held as well as a Spring Workshop to teach new skills to the members. A Tri-Cities membership meeting was held at the House of Ribs. A Cookbook Task Force worked to modify and reprint Upper Crust. It was re-titled as Treasures of the Smokies. A Christmas party was held at Circle Time Nursery. The membership voted to discontinue requiring a minimum number of community service hours. Instead, the membership chose to focus its efforts, both financial giving and time, on Watauga Mental Health.

The Lancaster, Harris, and Miller Award went to Tonie Clark.  The Rosalie Jennings Brandt King Award went to Rebecca Henderson.

1994-1995

"A Sharper Image" was the theme for this our first year to operate as a "focused" League. To reinforce our theme, members received "Here's Looking at You" awards (neon sunglasses) to recognize their efforts and to celebrate our successes. Goals for focusing included greater community impact, increased community awareness of the Junior League and increased membership satisfaction, attraction, and retention. Highlights of the year included the following:

Executive Board - Met monthly prior to Board Meetings, and each member served as a liaison to the Board Chairs. We hosted the Tri-Cities Executive Board Meeting in July at Winged Deer Park. Buff Colonna was our speaker regarding the Bone Marrow Center.

Advisory Planning - The Future Planning, Community Research, and Ways and Means Committees were combined to form the new Research, Development, and Evaluation Committee. Changes in membership requirements were made as well as the operating procedures of several committees, due to becoming "focused".

Arrangements - General Meetings were mostly held at the Specialty Hospital Cafeteria. Board Meetings were held in the homes of the various Board Members. This committee worked with the Member-At-Large, Education/Training, and the President to create theme centered atmosphere at the General Meetings.

Bag-A-Bargain - Our third annual BAB was held the first weekend in November at Freedom Hall and resulted in profits of $15,000. A fund-raising Kick-Off Party and Auction was held in October at the Peerless Restaurant. The membership voted to hold another BAB sale in the Fall of 1995.

Cookbook - The membership was given increased responsibility for the promotion and sale of the newly revised, Treasures of the Smokies (formerly Upper Crust) and Smoky Mountain Magic. Bulk mailings took place in July, January, and April. New accounts were opened  for Treasures of the Smokies, and a new account was opened with Wimmer Distributors. Various tastings were held at Proffitt's, Belk's, the Tri-Cities Junior League Meeting, and the Sustainer Spring Luncheon. A Kick-Off Party was held in October when the new Treasures of the Smokies was unveiled. Cookbook sales were over $20,000.

Community Funding - A check in the amount of $13,500 was presented to Watauga Mental Health Center to initiate foundation for a new Children's Mental Health Services Facility. The Discretionary Fund of $2000 was given to Hands On! Museum, Dawn of Hope, JC Symphony, Library Building Fund, Girls Scouts, Heart Association, the Volunteer Center, Ronald McDonald House, and to the Oklahoma Disaster Relief Fund.

Education/Training - Board Training was provided by AJLI Staff Service Providers. This committee provided speakers for seven of the nine General Meetings. A goal this year was to train the membership on the various services and programs available through Watauga Mental Health Center. This was accomplished by 10 minute highlights on Watauga at the General Meetings. In addition, to the regular President's and President-Elect's training, delegates were also sent to seminars/workshops on cookbooks, Kids on the Block, State Public Affairs Committee, channeling anger, Small League Growth and Development, and Strategic Planning. Education/Training planned the Spring Fling Sustainer Luncheon with the General Membership in attendance, in lieu of the Spring Workshop. The speaker was Clifton Mitchell on the "Power of Communication".

Kids on the Block - Five programs were presented to schools in our area for a total of over 70 performances. The programs included Physical and Personal Safety (physical and sexual abuse), Divorce, AIDS, Disabilities, and Gifts of Life (organ donation). The 15 puppeteer troupe consisted of  Actives, Sustainers, and community volunteers.

Member-At-Large - This board position was appointed by the President, and the member worked closely with Education/Training, Arrangements, and the President to carry out theme meetings to develop esprit de corps. The themes were carried out with decorations, refreshments, and speakers. Member-At-Large wrote monthly motivational articles for League Life.

Membership Development - Twenty-seven completed an informative, fun, four-month Provisional Training before becoming mid-year Actives. A video was produced by this committee about the Junior League, which was shown at the Provisional Tea in August. The Provisional Project was a "Health Safari" with North Side Hospital, held at Hands On!  in December.

Placement - In order to better serve the needs of the membership volunteer hours were not tracked, and members could select an in-league placement or a volunteer placement. We moved toward becoming job-oriented as opposed to counting hours. A Placement Fair was held in March and interviews in April. This committee provided telephone contact with membership throughout the year.

Public Affairs - Attended the SPAC Meeting in Nashville and addressed issues relating to family violence. The League advocated for a bill on this subject and was pleased when the Legislation was passed. The League approved the Tennessee Position Statements. Public Affairs also hosted a "Meet the Commissioner" evening at the March General Meeting.

Public Relations - Provided media coverage for the new cookbook and worked with Bag-A-Bargain to promote the sale.

Publications - Prepared the yearbook, which was available to everyone at the September General Meeting. Nine League Life’s of excellent quality and an average length of eight pages kept the membership informed throughout the year.

Research, Development, and Evaluation - This new committee surveyed the membership's commitment and satisfaction with the BAB Sale, and explored potential alternatives. Results indicated overall membership satisfaction provided that improvements be made for year-long storage and more pricing parties.

Volunteers - Sponsored Therapeutic Nursery Christmas and Easter parties, adopted a foster care family at Christmas, organized the Annual Food Drive, helped to sponsor for the 10th year, the McDonald's Volunteer  breakfast, worked at Proffitt's during the holidays to earn money for the League, and placed volunteers at the Watauga Mental Health Center in such areas as the Child Abuse Review Team, Traces, and Therapeutic Nursery.

Tri-Cities Annual Meeting of Junior Leagues - A step toward regionalism was taken in January as the first annual Tri-Cities Meeting was held at the Renaissance Center in Kingsport. The motivational speaker for the evening was Kay Johnson of Johnson West Associates in Charlotte, NC whose topic was “Ten Steps for Success in Life”.

Dinner Meeting - was held at the House of Ribs with speaker, Dr. Bob Symons, Director of City Schools. The Rosalie Jennings Brandt King Award was presented to Karen Smith and the Lancaster, Harris, and Miller Award was given to Suzette Acree.

1995-1996

The theme for this League year was "In the Company of Great Women" reflecting on the many contributions each League Member makes to our League. Members were given special logo mugs as thank you's during General Meetings for special activities during the previous month. Five Community Board Placements were made during this year including Alzheimer's Association, JC School Board Advisory Council, Hands On! Safe Passage, and Watauga Mental Health.

Many interesting and challenging issues were covered by the League during this year including By-Law issues related to age requirements, special cookbook reprint and marketing issues, financial issues related to lower revenues than projected due to cookbook reprints, work toward a new logo, a new logo, and the development of a strategic plan. The League purchased a computer, giving us the needed access to AJLI's BBS system and LeagueWare. A highlight of the year was our Treasurer, Rebecca Henderson being named to the AJLI Board of Directors. Other highlights included hosting AJLI President Nancy Evans for the Tri-Cities Annual Meeting, Kids on the Block winning the JC Penney Education Golden Rule Award and our League being given the opportunity to organize the Bicentennial Parade Celebrating the 200th Anniversary for the State of Tennessee.

Former and current leadership participated with AJLI in the evaluation of the Small League Growth and Development Project. Board Training was conducted by Yolanda Grotier, AJLI service provider. Following are some Committee specific highlights:

Executive Board - Met monthly at noon before the General Meetings held at night. This allowed for last minute issues to be discussed and flexibility with the General Meeting agenda. Exec Board met with the Tri-Cities Executive Committees.

Treasurer - The Treasurer developed a "living document" on financial issues; and working with the Assistant Treasurer, developed various financial reporting and tracking forms. The Treasurer coordinated our annual Fund Drive and used various creative means to ensure the maximum dues collection.

Advisory Planning - Various issues and By-Law changes were made including dues increase, age requirement changes, and the evaluation of the need to continue RDE as a permanent committee.

Arrangements - We continued to hold General Meetings at Specialty Hospital while Board Meetings were held at Woodridge Hospital. A new system of having refreshments before and after the General Meeting (instead of during)  was developed with very good success using this method.

Bag-A-Bargain (BAG) - BAG continues its success clearing a profit of $17,000. BAG also added to our assets another nine cash registers. Year round storage was available for the first time. BAG was conducted in two parts, the first being Kick-Off Auction with a Masquerade Gala held at the Country Club. The second part, the actual BAG sale was again at Freedom Hall. Growing success is contributed to excellent publicity, a record number of customers, and increasing donations from the community.

Cookbook - This year was a very challenging year for cookbook with robust sales causing the need for a reprint this year because last year's reprint having depleted the reprint account. Due to this challenge, a cookbook Strategic Planning Adhoc Committee was formed to address the many challenges including a revisiting of pricing and marketing strategies. An outcome of their effort was the development and ultimate approval of a contract members will sign indicating their commitment to cookbook and their preferences for activities designed to increase cookbook sales.

Cookbook also coordinated a 35th Year Anniversary Luncheon honoring members of the original Smoky Mountain Magic Committee. A great deal of media publicity was generated for this event. Cookbook generated a variety of media attention this year including a cooking spot on WJHL's morning program and participation in the QVC contest.

Community Funding - A check in the amount of $16,000 was given to Watauga Mental Health Center to help facilitate OPT for Success - a violence prevention counseling program for middle school age children. OPT (Offering Positive Techniques) is currently in place at Liberty Bell offering one-on-one as well as individual/group and parental counseling which deals with conflict resolution and anger management. Monies were directed toward this particular program versus the facilities program (as directed last year) due to uncertainty in the state's health care reform.               Funds from enabling totaling over $600 were given to United Way, Hands On!, March of Dimes, Contact Ministries, and the American Red Cross.

Education/Training - Training was provided at each General Meeting including such topics as media training, facilitation of cookbook, logo discussions, and relationship building - just to name a few. Training was also provided at most of the Board Meetings including topics of time management and financial consulting.

Training was also provided for fellowship with pre-meeting activities called "Thursday Thrillers". Topics included cake decorating, pumpkin carving, make-up techniques, decorating, and hosting dynamic dinner parties. All of these events were well attended and thoroughly enjoyed by the members.

Additional training was provided via League Life articles called Fast Tracks which included all Board Training material and other interesting topics for personal growth. Kids Korner was also developed to reflect our focus on kids and the family. Spring Workshop theme "Memories in the Making" included mind mapping, three thrillers presented by members, and motivational speaking. Dr. Robbie Anderson spoke on the importance of mind mapping and Dale Smith Thomas spoke about attitude, power of works and presence and edification. We concluded with a slide show of our League's history which can be used for public relations and the Provisional

Provisional Program. For the first time, in addition to Sustainers, other League members and community members attended the event.

Kids on the Block - Four programs were presented to the Johnson City and Washington County Schools. Programs included Disabilities, Personal Safety (abuse), Divorce, Gifts of Life (organ donation). The Disabilities show was changed to include epilepsy, blindness, and cerebral palsy. The 15 puppeteers included Actives, Sustainers, and community volunteers. KOB also modified two programs to present to special groups - Circle Time Nursery in conjunction with Nancy Evans' visit and a class at Munsey Pre-School.

Work began on the Alternatives to Violence Program, the Teen Pregnancy Program, and to restart the AIDS Program for the 1996-1997 school year.

Member-At-Large - Focused on making members feel welcome and a part of every meeting. Additionally, she hosted a tea for former League members to encourage women who had resigned in good standing to rejoin. As a result, two members were reinstated. Member-At-Large assimilated incoming transfers and reactivating members, wrote motivational League Life articles, and conducted written and oral exit interviews.

Membership Development - Twenty eight very Active new members joined our League as a result of the efforts of this committee. The Health Safari Provisional Project was a rousing success with over 345 kids and 260 adults attending and with great media coverage before and the day of the event.

Placement - As a result of feedback from members, Placement designed a special Placement Fair for the Provisionals/New Actives to facilitate their Placement. Placement began a "nametag" sign-in program with plans to enhance this program in future years.

Public Affairs - Public Affairs was a very active committee this year with voter registration and get out the vote campaigns undertaken. Members attended SPAC meetings in Nashville and the Policy Institute in W