League of Extraordinary Gentlewomen

They certainly are spry for 86.

The through line in all of these accomplishments of the women’s organization, according to current JLM President Meghan Perrin, to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and improve the Morris Area community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

“The Junior League of Morristown (JLM) works to achieve our mission by providing women opportunities to reach their potential. We provide formal, informal and experiential training for women to grow their leadership skills,” Perrin said. “ We hone these skills by providing our members opportunities to make an impact on community issue in the Morristown area.  The skills women develop benefit them in future community work, careers and interpersonal relationships.”

An organization with the history of the JLM hasn’t had difficulty maintaining steam as the decades dragged on, in fact their membership remains strong. Part of that, is due to the flexibility of their leadership and adaptability of their members.

“The JLM has approximately 325 members in total.  We meet monthly as a full membership from Sept. – May,” Perrin said. “Our group is broken down into sub-committees and each committee meets regularly as well. We also have events, trainings and social gatherings throughout the year.  In addition to our gatherings, our members provide over 1000 hours directly to the community.”

JLM is currently working on two community initiatives in addition to providing numerous opportunities for members to volunteer in other agency/non-profit organizations projects and events.  The two signature projects are working toward combating childhood obesity and bringing awareness to the issue of human trafficking.  

“Our first project focuses on educating children and their families and the importance of leading healthy lifestyles. Specifically, we work to encourage and educate children and families on daily exercise and healthy eating habits and how to achieve both even with a busy schedule and on a tight budget.  We work closely with various community partners to bring this information to families who need it most.,” Perrin said. “Our second project is working to educate our members and the public about the issue of Human Trafficking in NJ.  We are working with other community partners to begin a community dialogue on this issue.”

According to Perrin, the most challenging part of being a member of the JLM is balancing one's desire to be a leader in the community with career and family responsibilities. But the president said there are great rewards as well.

“The most rewarding part is growing into a leader and knowing that the work you do in the community changes it for the better,” Perrin said.

JLM is planning a Tricky Tray Trivia Night at the Knoll Country Club in Boonton on Nov. 21. Tickets are $60 per person and include appetizers, dinner, wine, beer, and Trivia. The funds generated will support all of the outreach efforts done by the JLM. Tickets available online at jlmnj.org.

To join a new member class or to get more information on the JLM e-mail jlm@jlmnj.org.