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Join HJWC Junior Leaders:
Applications are open!

Junior Leaders is a program of the Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club (HJWC) designed to inspire the next generation of philanthropic leaders through service, volunteerism, fundraising, and community engagement.

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HJWC is a 501(c)(3) philanthropic organization dedicated to strengthening our community through service, fostering meaningful connections, and raising funds to support charitable organizations that serve women and children throughout the western suburbs and the greater Chicagoland area. For more than 77 years, HJWC has proudly upheld a tradition of service while remaining an inclusive and welcoming organization.

 

The mission of the Junior Leaders program is to cultivate a spirit of philanthropy among local high school students by providing meaningful opportunities to volunteer, serve others, develop leadership skills, and participate in fundraising efforts that make a lasting impact in our community.

Volunteer & Service Opportunities

Junior Leaders will participate in one or two organized service projects each year at local charitable organizations. Volunteer activities may include food preparation, organizing donations, sorting supplies, and other projects based on the needs of participating organizations. Opportunities will generally take place on weekends or weeknights.

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Additional service opportunities may include:

  • Organizing community drives for books, school supplies, backpacks, and other essential items;

  • Participating in HJWC's annual Sarah Welsford Gifts of the Season program during the holiday season;

  • Supporting HJWC fundraising events through volunteer service;

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HJWC hosts several annual events in which volunteers are needed, including:

  • Golf Outing – September 24, 2026

  • Jingle Dash – November 15, 2026

  • Fund the Grants Gala – February 20, 2027

  • Ladies Who Lead Luncheon – TBD

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Junior Leaders may assist with event management, guest registration, raffle sales, silent auctions, and other event-related activities.

Fundraising Opportunities

Junior Leaders will have the opportunity to participate in HJWC's annual Jingle Dash community run held each November. Participants are encouraged to invite friends and family members to join the event and create fundraising teams with a goal of raising $500 per team.

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HJWC utilizes the GiveSmart platform, making fundraising simple, engaging, and easy to share through social media and personal networks.

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Participants are also encouraged to develop their own fundraising initiatives and creative ideas with guidance from the Junior Leaders chairperson.

Meetings & Leadership Development

Junior Leaders will participate in scheduled in-person meetings and virtual check-ins led by the Junior Leaders chairperson. Meetings may include guest speakers, leadership development activities, educational opportunities, and discussions designed to support the growth of our young leaders.

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At the conclusion of the program year, Junior Leaders will gather to celebrate their accomplishments and receive recognition for their contributions. Participant achievements may be highlighted in the HJWC newsletter and on the club's social media channels, including Instagram (@hinsdalejwc).

Scholarship Opportunities

Senior participants in the Junior Leaders program may apply for HJWC educational scholarships to support their college education. Scholarship recipients are selected through an impartial process that considers both philanthropic service and academic achievement.

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Scholarship applications will be available on the HJWC website at hjwc.us beginning in November, with submission deadlines announced annually.

Program Requirements

Applications are currently being accepted for up to 15 high school students through September 15, 2026. Preference will be given to juniors and seniors.

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Program requirements include:

  • A one-time participation fee of $75;

  • A fundraising goal of $500 minimum per participant;

  • Active participation in volunteer, service, and fundraising activities throughout the year;

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Questions may be directed to:

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