What a year the League has had! We started the 2022/2023 League year off right with the return of our beloved CARE Fair in its traditional format. This was the first full-service CARE Fair since 2019. Our members and the community showed up in full force to support the needs of Salt Lake’s most underserved families. Even with a three-year absence, this year’s CARE Fair met the same success as previous events with a total of 707 volunteers, serving over 2,100 clients during the two-day event. Twenty-eight community agencies attended, 290 children received a new car seat, and 150 kids were fitted for a brand-new bike helmet. In addition to providing on-site services, JLSLC was able to hand out vouchers for follow-up care totaling more than $25,000 for medical needs and over $60,000 for dental patients.
The League didn’t stop with the return of the CARE Fair. Our Fundraising Committee brought back the annual Touch-a-Truck event with huge success! Through a partnership with Valley Fair Mall, the League took over the mall’s south parking lot for a day of Halloween-themed fun. West Valley City showed up in force, bringing squad cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and more. Many other local businesses offered up their vehicles for the day including UDOT, the Army National Guard, UPS, and even the Oscar Meyer Weiner Mobile!
In the midst of the return of these two events, the League building underwent a facelift. We removed the facade, installed a new fence and new outdoor lighting, and repaved the parking lot. These renovations have not only given a fresh new look to our headquarters, but have also significantly reduced issues with crime and made the location safer for our volunteers, staff, and Women Helping Women clients. With a refreshed building and two major events successfully completed, JLSLC was given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when Salt Lake City hosted the NBA All-Star Tournament in February. The League partnered with the NBA Wives Association and #HashtagLunchbag to provide 1,200 meals to local agencies serving women and families in need.
Throughout all the excitement this year, we have stayed true to our mission. Our League members have worked tirelessly to improve our community — while still fitting in a little bit of fun at our Annual Spring Gala. Our League is an unstoppable force for good, and our members will continue to be the change-makers in our community. As you read through this magazine, please enjoy the stories and memories shared by our members and take a moment to reflect on your experiences with the League. Whether you are an active member, a sustaining member, or a friend of the League, you are a part of our story and your contribution to our legacy is invaluable.
As this year comes to an end, and I reflect on all the accomplishments our members have achieved, I look forward to all the opportunities that await the Junior League of Salt Lake City … All the challenges and triumphs we will take on … All the talented women who will lead this organization through trials and celebrations. Together, we can move mountains!
With Gratitude,
Whitney Fenech
JLSLC President 2021-2023
