Friends, Members, and Supporters,

It is my honor to welcome you to the Junior League of Grand Rapids (JLGR) as we enter our 101st year of service, leadership, and community impact. As President, I am both humbled and inspired to serve an organization with such a rich history of empowering women and driving meaningful change in our community.

Since our founding, JLGR has been committed to advancing women’s leadership through volunteerism, collaboration, and training. Our members are civic leaders, changemakers, and passionate volunteers who are united by a common desire to make a difference.

Central to our mission is the belief that when women are empowered, entire communities benefit. Through training, access to resources, and a network of support systems, we help women develop into confident, effective leaders. From advocacy initiatives and innovative programming to partnerships with local organizations, our members consistently drive progress and continue to be a force for good.

As we embark on our 101st year, we celebrate those who came before us while embracing the opportunities ahead. This year, we reaffirm our commitment to developing the next generation of women leaders and strengthening the community we call home.

Whether you’re a prospective member, community partner, new or longtime supporter, I personally invite you to join us and become a part of this powerful legacy. Together, we can continue to build a better, more equitable future—through the power of women’s leadership and a shared commitment to making meaningful, and lasting change.

With gratitude and enthusiasm,

AJ Wilkes
President, 2025–2026
Junior League of Grand Rapids