Become a Partner

Become a Partner with the Junior League of Charleston

Applications for the 2026-27 year are now open!

Are you looking for a meaningful partnership that involves consistent volunteer support throughout the year? Or perhaps you’re seeking help for a one-time event that needs volunteer involvement? Or simply financial assistance? We offer three types of partnerships to suit your needs:

  • Year-Long Community Partnership

If you’re interested in a year-long partnership with ongoing volunteer support, we invite you to apply for our Community Partner Project for the 2026-2027 cycle. This partnership allows your organization to receive continuous volunteer engagement and support throughout the year. The application can be found here.

  • Single-Event Partnership

For organizations needing volunteer support for one or more specific events, our “Done in a Day” Community Partner Program offers a flexible option. This allows your organization to partner with the Junior League of Charleston for a single event, whether it’s a one-day initiative or a few days of volunteer help. This partnership may or may not include financial support. The application can be found here.

  • Community Assistance Grant

For organizations needing volunteer support for one or more specific events, our “Done in a Day” Community Partner Program offers a flexible option. This allows your organization to partner with the Junior League of Charleston for a single event, whether it’s a one-day initiative or a few days of volunteer help. This partnership may or may not include financial support.This is best suited for organizations who do not need assistance from volunteers but would benefit from a financial contribution to support their mission.

How to Apply:

Project applications will be available in late August. If you have any questions about the application process or community project details, please reach out to us directly at communityprojects@jlcharleston.org.

Community Project Cycle:

  • October 31: Application deadline
  • October-November: Site visits and committee meetings to review proposals
  • November: Committee votes on proposed projects
  • December: Presentation to the Community Council and Finance Council
  • January: First reading of projects by the Board; presentation to JLC general membership
  • February: General membership votes on final project selection
  • March: JLC members sign up for project committees
  • May: Notification to approved projects
Community Project Guidelines and Criteria

Our community partners must align with our focus area of Strengthening Families in the Tri-County area. We seek projects that:

  • Empower families and strengthen the community through direct service.
  • Incorporate both significant volunteer participation from our members and monetary contributions from the Junior League of Charleston (JLC).
  • Provide clear volunteer opportunities that are completed within a defined timeframe (starting no earlier than July 1 and concluding by May 1).
  • Include collaboration between JLC and one or more registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
When submitting your proposal, please ensure it includes:
  • A detailed project plan, including objectives, tasks, volunteer hours, and timeline.
  • A budget outlining all project expenses, and an indication of any additional funding needed.
  • A clear description of how the project will measure its impact and the results you expect.
  • A designated person or team within your organization to work with JLC to implement the project.
  • Documentation, including your most recent audited financial statement and a summary of past collaborations with JLC or other nonprofits.
Evaluation Criteria: The Junior League of Charleston evaluates proposals based on the following:
  • The commitment to strengthening families and empowering the community.
  • The inclusion of a robust volunteer component, including details of volunteer tasks and hours required.
  • Clarity of project goals, timeline, and measurable impact.
  • Demonstrated understanding of what JLC can contribute to the project.
  • Proven success in past collaborations, especially with nonprofits.
  • Detailed budget and an explanation of how funding will be used effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the Junior League of Charleston do in the community?

A: The Junior League of Charleston empowers and strengthens families in the Charleston area by partnering with local nonprofits. We focus on projects that align with our mission and provide both financial support and volunteer hours.

Q: Does Junior League of Charleston provide grants that are then re-granted?

A: No, our financial support is provided directly to the community partners for specific projects and needs.

Q: Can funds be used for salaries?

A: Yes, but we prefer that most funds go toward direct services or goods provided by the applying organization.

Q: What is the maximum amount of financial assistance available?

A: Projects are typically funded in the $1,000-$5,000 range.

Q: When are most Junior League of Charleston volunteers available?

A: Most JLC members work outside the home, so evening and weekend volunteer opportunities tend to be most successful.

Community Project Development Leadership Contacts:

For more information, please contact communityprojects@jlcharleston.org or reach out to:

Vice President of Community: community@jlcharleston.org

We look forward to working with you to create meaningful impact in our community!