Members at the May 12 annual meeting.
At what turned out to be their final annual meeting — a bittersweet moment for sure — the women of the Junior League of Champaign-Urbana did what they’ve been best at for nearly 100 years: provide a comforting and helping hand.
Among the many awards handed out May 12 at Lodgic in Champaign: two $2,500 “First In The Family” scholarships to Urbana High graduates and college-bound Isabela Castillo Perez and Karen Sanchez.
On May 31, the local Junior League chapter will call it day, officially dissolving after close to a century of philanthropy and camaraderie.
“This decision was not made lightly,” President Michelle Marquart said. “Our chapter was built by passionate members, volunteers and partners who believed deeply in our mission and showed up in meaningful ways for our community. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
Founded in 1932, the Junior League of Champaign-Urbana was the driving force behind countless community treasures like Courage Connection, Crisis Nursery and Developmental Services Center. The group rewarded high school girls with scholarships, provided training for members and hosted a holiday favorite — the Festival of Trees (right) — for 30 years.
They’re working with the Champaign County History Museum and the archives crew at the Urbana Free Library to document their rich history. Also, the Festival of Trees will continue as Illini Media Group grabs the wheel. Finally, plans call for an alumni network so past and present members can stay in touch.
“We hope the relationships formed here will continue to grow, even beyond the life of this chapter,” Marquart said.
First In The Family scholarship recipients from Urbana High School.
Members of the Junior League of Champaign-Urbana, known then as the Junior Aid Society, are shown in 1948 sewing for a family services project. The organization is celebrating its 80th anniversary with a gala next Saturday at the Champaign Country Club.
Members of the Junior League of Champaign-Urbana, then known as the Junior Service League, unveil their new logo design in June 1967. The league formed from the merger of the Junior Aid Society and the Service League in 1959.
