Buzz on over for the Junior League of Portland’s 2nd Annual Party with the Pollinators Event on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10 a.m.–1 p.m.! This free, family-friendly (ages 4+) community event is all about celebrating bees, butterflies, and the tiny pollinators that help our gardens and food grow.

Kids can enjoy hands-on activities, fun educational stations, crafts, games, and interactive learning designed to spark curiosity about the important role pollinators play in our environment. Families will have the chance to explore bee education in a playful and engaging way while learning simple ways to help protect pollinators at home.

Whether your little one loves bugs, flowers, nature, or just having fun outdoors, this sweet event is the perfect way to spend a spring Saturday together. Plant seeds, take home mystery pumpkins plants and more!

Bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to learn, play, and celebrate our buzzing friends with the Junior League of Portland!

Saturday, May 30
10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Junior League of Portland Community Room

1201 SW 12th Avenue Portland, OR 97202

If you have any questions email focus@jlpdx.org

The Junior League of Portland is gearing up for one of its most anticipated annual events: the 9th Annual Rose City Summit, taking place on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Known for bringing together emerging and established leaders, this year’s summit promises an inspiring day centered on leadership, resilience, and community-driven impact.

A Keynote Rooted in Community Leadership

Headlining the event is Dr. Robin Beavers, a dynamic leader whose career spans nonprofit organizations, higher education, and professional sports. As Senior Vice President of Community & Social Impact for the Portland Timbers, Dr. Beavers plays a pivotal role in shaping how one of Portland’s most beloved sports organizations connects with its community.

Her work focuses on expanding access to youth sports, strengthening educational initiatives, and building partnerships that bridge corporate, civic, and nonprofit sectors. A Portland native, Dr. Beavers brings over two decades of experience dedicated to uplifting youth and families while helping organizations align their resources with real community needs.

Attendees can expect a keynote that blends professional insight with a deeply personal commitment to service, leadership, and equity.

A Panel of Trailblazing Women

In addition to the keynote, the summit will feature a panel of accomplished women leaders from diverse industries. This conversation is designed to go beyond surface-level career advice and dive into the realities of forging a unique path.

Panelists will explore:

• How to build courage when stepping into the unknown
• The role of resilience throughout different career stages
• Ways to leverage leadership to create meaningful, lasting change

This session is particularly valuable for professionals looking to grow their influence, navigate challenges, and contribute more intentionally to their communities.

Why the Rose City Summit Matters

The Rose City Summit has become a cornerstone event in Portland for those interested in leadership development, community engagement, and women’s empowerment. It offers a space to learn from experienced leaders while connecting with others who are equally committed to making an impact.

Whether you’re early in your career, stepping into leadership, or looking to deepen your community involvement, the summit provides practical insights and meaningful inspiration.

Event Details and Registration

• Event: Rose City Summit 2026
• Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
• Location: Portland, Oregon

To learn more about the event, secure your ticket, or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit rosesummit.org.

If you’re looking for an event that combines professional growth with genuine community impact, the Rose City Summit is one to mark on your calendar.

Exciting News! The Junior League of Portland is officially listed in Willamette Week’s Volunteer Guide.

As a member-led nonprofit, we have no paid staff, and we rely on our members to help us grow and maintain member rosters. Thank you to this year’s New Member & Recruitment Co-Chair, Charlotte Wilson, for her idea and thoughtful execution.

Interested In Learning More?

Are you interested in learning more about the Junior League of Portland? Check out our Join Us page, learn about our history (we’re the fourth oldest chapter in existence!) or see member testimonials like the one below from our DEI Chair, Zandra Ellis, on our Instagram page.

 

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A post shared by Junior League of Portland (@juniorleaguepdx)

 

Please reach out to newmember@jlpdx.org or stay tuned here for a full schedule of events in February and March.

Calling all Portland Junior League members! If you’re looking for inspiration, practical tools, and meaningful connection with Junior League women from across the Pacific Northwest, Northwest Exchange (NWX) 2026 in Eugene should absolutely be on your calendar this March.

Hosted by the Junior League of Eugene, NWX 2026 promises a full weekend of learning, leadership development, and idea-sharing designed specifically for Junior League members—whether you’re new to the League, stepping into leadership, or a seasoned Sustainer.

? A Powerful Keynote to Kick Off the Weekend

Keynote Speaker: Libra Forde
Executive Director, Women’s Foundation of Oregon

Saturday morning will begin with an inspiring keynote from Libra Forde, an executive leader, advocate, and award-winning presenter known for her powerful storytelling and justice-centered leadership. Her work focuses on systemic change, equity, and empowering women to lead with confidence and purpose—an energizing way to set the tone for the weekend.

? Roundtables Built for Connection & Sharing

One of the highlights of NWX is the opportunity to connect directly with members from other Leagues:

• Saturday: Junior League Show & Tell
  Share what Portland is doing well, hear what’s working in other Leagues, and build connections across the PNW.
• Sunday: Committee Roundtables
  Join rotating discussions organized by committee areas like fundraising, membership, training, community engagement, nominating, and more. Swap best practices, troubleshoot challenges, and head home with fresh ideas you can actually use.

? Workshops You Don’t Want to Miss

NWX 2026 features an impressive lineup of speakers and workshops, including:

Secrets to Successful Fundraising
Kelly Sutherland, Executive Director of Relief Nursery, shares proven strategies for long-term fundraising success from one of Oregon’s most impactful nonprofits—originally founded by the Junior League of Eugene.

Inclusivity & Belonging Training
Ayisha Elliott, Executive and Relational Leadership Coach, leads an honest, engaging session focused on moving beyond performative diversity toward meaningful, relationship-centered change.

Why AJLI Matters for You
Cece Gassner, AJLI Governance Committee Chair, breaks down the real value of AJLI membership and how the Association supports your personal, professional, and League journey.

Surviving and Thriving with Laughter and Play
Leigh Anne Jasheway, M.P.H., stress management expert and comedian, brings humor, play, and practical tools for navigating leadership and life.

Additional topics will include women’s hormone health, Artificial Intelligence and its role in Junior League, a Sustainer panel, and an inspirational leadership session, with more announcements coming soon.

? Why NWX Makes Sense for Portland Members

Eugene is an easy trip from Portland, making NWX an accessible way to:

• Strengthen your leadership skills
• Bring fresh ideas back to PDX committees
• Build relationships across Leagues
• Recharge your Junior League energy

?️ Ready to Go?

Your next steps:

• Purchase your NWX ticket
• Book your hotel room
• OR apply for a possible scholarship

? Scholarship Application Form: 2/20/26 deadline
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqmp1zXEgh2Qe_7p78FArv6W3vHmtupDOlCH2EN68ZCgf-EQ/viewform

Whether you’re attending solo or coordinating with fellow Portland members, NWX 2026 is shaping up to be a weekend full of growth, connection, and fun. Let’s show up, learn together, and represent PDX in Eugene this March!

Questions? Please reach out to Natalie Edwards, Nominating & Placement Chair at nominating@jlpdx.org

SAVE $50 PER ATTENDEE! Regular pricing: $250 starting January 19, 2025

Junior League of Eugene Welcomes the Pacific Northwest to Northwest Exchange 2026

This March the Junior League of Eugene opens its arms — and its home — to an inspiring weekend of connection, empowerment, and growth as the chapter proudly hosts Northwest Exchange 2026 from March 20 to March 22 at the Graduate Hotel in downtown Eugene. This regional conference brings together members from across the Pacific Northwest, embodying the mission of the Junior League to cultivate civic leadership and meaningful community action.

For First-Time Visitors and Seasoned Volunteers alike, Northwest Exchange is more than a meeting — it’s a launchpad for ideas and a bridge between chapters that may be miles apart but share a common purpose. Each year, a host chapter rotates responsibility for organizing this signature event, and Eugene’s turn signals the city’s growing role in the nonprofit world and its welcoming spirit.

Don’t miss the chance to save with early bird pricing! We’ll send out a follow-up email soon with a form to collect attendee details, which will be due by January 31, 2025.

We can’t wait to welcome your league to Eugene for a weekend of learning, connection, and fun.

Register Here

Update:

?️ Ready to Go?

Your next steps:

• Purchase your NWX ticket
• Book your hotel room
• OR apply for a possible scholarship

? Scholarship Application Form: 2/20/26 deadline
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqmp1zXEgh2Qe_7p78FArv6W3vHmtupDOlCH2EN68ZCgf-EQ/viewform

Whether you’re attending solo or coordinating with fellow Portland members, NWX 2026 is shaping up to be a weekend full of growth, connection, and fun. Let’s show up, learn together, and represent PDX in Eugene this March!

Questions? Please reach out to Natalie Edwards, Nominating & Placement Chair at nominating@jlpdx.org

Support the Junior League of Portland this holiday season by purchasing a fresh wreath produced by a local nursery! Wreaths measure 22 inches from the outside edge and are $45 each. Final orders will be due Dec 2 (or until we sell out).

MEMBERS ORDER HERE

Also be sure to register for our wreath pick-up party on Dec. 4! If you can’t make the party, you’ll  be able to pick up at the office on Saturday, Dec. 6. Thank you for supporting Junior League of Portland.

REGISTER FOR WREATH PICK UP PARTY HERE

By Judy Jorgensen

At Large Director, AJLI Board of Directors 2022-2025

Past Chair, AJLI Sustainer Committee

To be a Sustainer in the Junior League today means more than simply transitioning out of Active membership—it’s about stepping into a new chapter of opportunity, leadership, and legacy. While the term “sustain” traditionally means to support or strengthen, in the League it encompasses a wide spectrum: from mentoring and training to donating and serving on boards. Contrary to the misconception, “going Sustainer” does not mean leaving the League—it can actually be a time of increased engagement and leadership.

Sustainers by the Numbers

Sustainers now make up nearly two-thirds of Junior League members, a majority that includes women from their 30s to their 90s and beyond. With most Junior Leagues no longer requiring an age cutoff, the Sustainer demographic has expanded to reflect a wider range of life stages and interests. These members bring decades of wisdom, experience, and potential to every League.

Cultural and Strategic Shifts

In 2024, the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) Sustainer Committee was established to focus more intentionally on engaging and enriching the Sustainer experience. Through a series of focus groups and surveys—including a major All-Sustainer Survey with over 2,000 respondents—key themes emerged: Sustainers want connection, clearer communication, meaningful engagement, and a stronger sense of community impact.

Sustainers expressed interest in social opportunities, but many also value continued service and leadership. A recurring concern, however, was feeling sidelined—valued more for financial contributions than for mentoring or expertise. This disconnect calls for a cultural shift in how Leagues view and engage Sustainers: not as “former members,” but as lifelong contributors.

From Insight to Action

Based on this feedback, AJLI launched the following initiatives:

• The first Sustainer programming at the 2025 AJLI Annual Conference since 2018
• Monthly virtual meetups and a dedicated Facebook group for Sustainer leaders
• Development of a Sustainer Director job description and leadership handbook
• Establishment of an annual AJLI Sustainer Connection Award
• Exploration of Sustainer-specific community impact initiatives

The Sustainer Committee also recommended integrating Sustainers into broader League systems and eliminating outdated silos. This integration encourages shared leadership, deeper institutional memory, and greater generational continuity. Actives, too, play a critical role—by being open to the mentorship and contributions Sustainers can offer.

Looking Ahead

AJLI’s Board and staff will continue to prioritize Sustainers, with plans to explore new ways to connect and collaborate across membership levels. The goal is to ensure that Sustainers are not just honored for past service, but empowered to help shape the League’s future.

Ultimately, Sustainers are not just supporters—they are strategists, advocates, and torchbearers. By embracing their full potential, the League ensures it can thrive for generations to come.

Blog Post Note:

This speech was given by Judy Jorgensen at the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) 2025 Conference in Orlando, Florida

Learn More 

If you missed our event series but are still interested in joining, schedule a 1:1 virtual meeting via recruitment@jlpdx.org.

Ready to Join?

[Apply Here]

On October 7th, 2023, Junior League members and non-profit organizations will join together to complete a variety of much needed service projects that directly benefit our local community. Our 2023 partners include: Kindness Farm, PSU Basic Needs Hub, Blanchet House, Habitat for Humanity, Portland Backpack, and Northwest Children’s Outreach.

We welcome current and prospective members (21+) to sign up for your preferred location! If you are a member, please wear your JLP name tag. If not, come as you are–we can’t wait to meet you and spend time working together in our community!

Prospective members may join us at the Kindness Farm and PSU Basic Needs Hub. Sign up below!

Public Sign-up Links

• Saturday, October 7, 10am-1pm – JLP CAREs: Kindness Farm
• Saturday, October 7, 9am-12pm – JLP CAREs: PSU Basic Needs Hub

Member Sign-up Links

• Saturday, October 7, 9am-12pm – JLP CAREs: PSU Basic Needs Hub (waitlist)
• Saturday, October 7, 9:30am-12:30pm – JLP CAREs: Habitat for Humanity
• Saturday, October 7, 10am-1pm – JLP CAREs: Kindness Farm (waitlist)
• Saturday, October 7, 10am-12pm – JLP CAREs: Northwest Children’s Outreach (waitlist)
• Saturday, October 7, 10am-11:30pm – JLP CAREs: Portland Backpack at the Sustainer All-Hands Meeting
• Saturday, October 7, 11am-1pm – JLP CAREs: Blanchet House (waitlist)
• Saturday, October 7, all day – JLP CAREs: Blanchet House Care Kits (remote)

Please email volunteer@jlpdx.org with any questions.

Please join the Junior League of Portland for an event educating on the human trafficking problems in our city and what we can do to help now.

Important advocates of the end human trafficking movement, A Village for One, New Avenues for Youth, Rabab’s Sisters, Raphael House of Portland, and Rose Haven will speak and share their stories.

The event will offer meaningful ways to engage in the Portland community and make a difference. The Essentials Drive is going on now. We will be actively collecting supplies at the event. Additionally, anyone can contribute to the drive through the Amazon and Target wishlists.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT HERE

Junior League of Portland MEMBERS, Please Register HERE

Learn More About The Essentials Drive

PROGRAM:

2pm: Light refreshments and an opportunity to speak with the partner organizations: A Village for One, New Avenues for Youth, Rabab’s Sisters, Raphael House of Portland, Rose Haven and our JLP members.

2:30: Presentations begin. Speakers bring a wide range of experiences and ways to address eliminating the problem and helping those who experience trafficking or are at risk. Expect to be energized to take action!

Location:Ecotrust Building- Billy Frank Jr. Room 721 NW 9th Ave Suite 200 Portland, OR 97209

Parking: Ecotrust has a visitor’s lot that is first-come, first-serve and shared with the building. On weekends, all 36 spots are available without restriction. The former US Post Office building on 9th Avenue now hosts a City Center Parking lot with over 100 pay-to-park spots. Street parking is also available with 2 hour spots.

Public Transport: Trimet has 2 street cars stopping at NW 10th & Johnson: the NS line and the A loop.

General Entrance Accessibility: There is a ramp into the building on the SW corner of the building. The ramp brings you to the center of the first floor, where an elevator is centrally located and a staircase is also available after passing the elevator. Our event is on the 2nd floor in the Billy Frank Jr Room meeting room.