By: Rachelle Roberts
Edited by: Amna Choudry and Sarah Valerio

The Junior League of Washington (JLW) has long been a pillar of community service and women’s leadership in the D.C. area. This year, under the dynamic leadership of President Charlyn Stanberry, Esq., the League embarks on an exciting and transformative journey to S.H.I.N.E. President Stanberry’s leadership is rooted in a commitment to service, empowerment, and inclusivity, making her the ideal person to guide JLW into a new era of impact and growth in the league’s 112th year. 

President Charlyn Stanberry Shines a light on the Future of the Junior League of Washington DC

Her call to action is simple yet powerful: “How are you going to make our community and League shine?” She encourages every member to take an active role in strengthening JLW’s mission while fostering personal and professional development.

The Vision for 2024-2025: What It Means to S.H.I.N.E.

S.H.I.N.E. is a comprehensive framework designed to enhance JLW’s service, leadership, and community engagement. Each element of S.H.I.N.E. plays a critical role in shaping the League’s impact throughout the year:

S – Serve the Community

President Stanberry’s vision for service is centered on responsiveness and adaptability. With the assistance of Past President Kimberly Price, she has introduced the Community Response Volunteer Taskforce, which actively seeks partnerships with new organizations to address pressing community needs. This initiative allows JLW members to engage with a broader network of nonprofits and advocacy groups, ensuring that the League’s volunteer efforts remain relevant and impactful.

By expanding volunteer opportunities, members can participate in hands-on service projects, whether assisting families in need, supporting literacy initiatives, or responding to emergent community challenges. This approach not only strengthens JLW’s footprint but also provides members with more opportunities to engage in meaningful service.

H – Honor Our Mission

A strong and inclusive community begins with a commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEIAB). Under President Stanberry’s leadership, JLW is implementing the second phase of its DEIAB roadmap, ensuring that every member feels a sense of belonging. This roadmap is the product of a DEIAB assessment. 

This phase focuses on creating more inclusive spaces, increasing representation within leadership, and offering town halls and cultural sensitivity training sessions to help members better understand the importance of equity and accessibility in community service and beyond.  By prioritizing DEIAB, JLW is building a League that truly reflects and supports the diverse communities it serves.

I – Expand Our Impact

President Stanberry understands that collaboration is key to creating lasting change. By creating and hosting community open houses, JLW is fostering dialogue with external leaders, community stakeholders, and other organizations. These events provide a platform for sharing ideas, developing partnerships, and amplifying JLW’s mission beyond its current reach.

Through these strategic collaborations, the League is able to attract new members, strengthen community relationships, and ensure that its programs align with the most pressing needs of the D.C. community.

N – Nurture the Next Generation

Mentorship and leadership development are at the core of S.H.I.N.E. To support the personal and professional growth of its members, JLW is in the first phase of creating and launching a mentoring and coaching program. By investing in mentorship, the League is fostering a pipeline of strong, capable leaders who will continue to drive JLW’s mission forward for years to come.

E – Empower Our Members

A sustainable organization is one that continuously refines its approach to fundraising and financial stewardship. Recognizing this, President Stanberry has re-established the Fund Development Advisory Taskforce to enhance JLW’s fundraising strategies.

This task force is focused on equipping members with the tools and knowledge needed to secure funding that aligns with the League’s mission. Whether through corporate partnerships, grant writing, or donor engagement, JLW is strengthening its financial foundation to support its long-term goals.

The Impact of S.H.I.N.E. on JLW Membership

President Stanberry’s S.H.I.N.E. initiative is already making waves within the League, inspiring members to engage in new ways. From expanding volunteer participation to fostering stronger connections between members, the impact of this initiative is evident in the growth and enthusiasm seen across JLW.

Here’s what some of our members have to say about how S.H.I.N.E. has influenced their experience this year during our annual Find the Good Day:

A Renewed Sense of Purpose in Service

Looking Ahead: The Future of S.H.I.N.E.

President Stanberry’s vision for S.H.I.N.E. is more than just a year-long theme—it’s a roadmap for JLW’s future. By focusing on service, inclusion, impact, mentorship, and empowerment, this initiative is positioning the League for long-term success.

The 2024-2025 League year is already proving to be a transformational one, with S.H.I.N.E. fostering deeper engagement, stronger community ties, and more opportunities for members to grow. As JLW continues on this path, President Stanberry’s leadership serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all that we have the power to make our community and League truly shine.

So, to every member of JLW, the question remains: How will you make our community and League shine?

Let’s keep the momentum going and continue building a brighter, stronger, and more impactful JLW.