Join Us
WHAT IS THE NYJL? We are a volunteer-powered organization of women from all generations, all walks of life, bound by a single goal: to improve the health and well-being of women, children, and families in our City.
We teach children. Mentor teen moms. Plant trees. Renovate community centers. Engage seniors. Show families how to live smart. Advocate for policies that better serve communities in our City. Organize events that raise funds for community needs. Support and train our fellow members, preparing them to be effective community volunteers. Mentor women leaders. Build lasting friendships. And much, much more. Join us today!
Benefits of Membership
Opportunity to be part of a reputable organization that has been on the forefront of New York City’s defining moments and an integral partner in responding to the city’s most pressing socioeconomic challenges for more than a century. The NYJL tackles issues such as homelessness, food insecurity, education, and child health, and works with women, children, and families to advance socioemotional learning and mastery of functional life skills through its advocacy efforts and work with community partner organizations. The NYJL will be needed more than ever when the pandemic subsides and New York City needs help rebuilding.
Connection with a community of 2,800 extraordinary women with diverse backgrounds, talents, and passion for volunteerism and effecting positive change.
Consistent and continuous volunteer opportunities that enable you to build relationships with clients, community partners, and fellow committee members; help guide the direction of your project; and witness its progression throughout your service.
Hands-on training and experiences that deepen your knowledge of the community issues we care about and develop your skills in nonprofit operations, program management, and direct service delivery. All members also have access to Association of Junior Leagues International’s (AJLI) extensive learning portal, webinars, in-person trainings, and benefits.
Leadership development through skills workshops and service in leadership roles. Leadership roles range from Council associate, committee vice and sub-chairs to co-chairs, Management Council, and Board of Directors. Leaders develop skills in managing teams of 5 to 150 people, strategic planning, project management, public speaking, ownership of programs or events from start to completion.
Opportunities to engage with civic leaders, elected officials, and community partners through special panels, events, and mixers.
Affiliation activities and events, such as affinity groups for mothers and women of color, book clubs, exercise outings, game nights, and seasonal celebrations.
Invitations to all NYJL fundraising and specialty events so you can support NYJL’s mission while catching up with old friends and making new ones.
Transferable membership to Leagues throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and England.
Interested in learning more about how to join the New York Junior League? Create a profile and attend a new member orientation (view orientation dates here).
Already a New York Junior League member? Log in to the Member portal to learn more about your membership options.
Become a member
How to become a member of the NYJL and volunteer with us
Step 1: Complete your online profile. Get Started Now!
Once you complete your profile, you will receive an email to verify your account. Click on the verification link to return to the online member portal and to proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Sign up for a new member orientation. *Our orientations will be online until further notice.*
Upcoming Virtual Orientation Dates
- August 31
- September 10, 16, and 26
After verifying your account, you will be able to register for an orientation session. We offer new member orientations about two times per month throughout the year.
At new member orientation, you will learn more about the NYJL and how you can get involved. These orientations are great opportunities to learn more about the work that we do and how you can continue the application process.
Step 3: Submit your application.
After attending an orientation, you’ll get a link to the online application. Applications are reviewed continuously throughout the year and confirmations are notified by email.
Step 4: Register for your Provisional Training Course
All applicants who are accepted participate in a Provisional training course before becoming NYJL active volunteers. New training courses begin in late September and late January. Participation at all training meetings is required.
Transfer your volunteer membership
Already a member of another Junior League? Have you recently moved, or do you plan to move, to New York City? Contact your current Junior League and ask them to transfer your membership to the NYJL. We accept Transfers throughout the year. You’ll get a special advisor to help you navigate your transition. We host fun socials and weekend outings designed especially for Transfers that will help you get to know New York City.
- For more information, email membership@nyjl.org.
Training
Training women to become community leaders is in our DNA. Ever since 1901, when founder Mary Harriman taught her friends how to work with families living in tenements on the Lower East Side, the New York Junior League has been committed to developing women’s leadership skills. Today our volunteers learn through a variety of innovative, hands-on training programs. In addition, we also provide training to the general public through these signature initiatives:
