It’s no secret that the Junior League is renowned for its lively social events and impactful community projects. However, not every member finds complete fulfillment in a whirlwind of Sunday brunches or committing to long-term committee roles such as Women Helping Women or CARE Fair. For those seeking low-commitment ways to connect to the community, the solution is simple: Done-in-a-Day projects.
As the name suggests, Done-in-a-Day projects enable Junior League members to engage with the wider Salt Lake City community through short, manageable periods of community service. Typically lasting a few hours in the evenings or weekend mornings, these projects provide ample opportunities to make a difference. In the 2022–2023 year, the Membership Outreach Committee organized a diverse range of Done-in-a-Day projects to cater to various interests and schedules.
For those yearning to bask in the sun and contribute to the environment, the Jordan River Clean-up and Wasatch Community Gardens volunteer day offered the perfect chance to soak up the sunshine while tending to lush greenery. Meanwhile, members with a passion for supporting women’s causes joined the Planned Parenthood Gala as volunteers, embracing a glamorous evening dedicated to championing women’s health. They also had the opportunity to refresh their closets while supporting Women Helping Women through the Junior League clothing swap.
Addressing the issue of food insecurity, the Junior League welcomed members to participate in can sorting at the Utah Food Bank or serve food at Fill the Pot Ministries. These projects allowed women to directly impact individuals and families facing hunger in the community. Additionally, for those who enjoyed imbibing at the Oktoberfest social, the opportunity to pour beer at the American Cancer Society Beer Fest provided a delightful way to support a worthy cause.
Not all Junior League projects require active participation; passive forms of support also make a significant impact. Throughout the past year, the league collected can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House and household goods for the University of Utah Feed U Pantry, providing members with opportunities to contribute in ways that fit their schedules and preferences.
For many women who join the Junior League, the desire to engage with the community on a deeper level and forge meaningful social and civic partnerships is a driving force. Done-in-a-Day projects offer an accessible entry point into the community, allowing members to explore philanthropy without the pressure of committing to recurring volunteer positions.
Whether you decide to serve at CARE Fair, Women Helping Women, or participate in a Done-in-a-Day project, each experience is guaranteed to leave you satisfied and eagerly anticipating future opportunities. By embracing these short-term volunteering opportunities, Junior League members can broaden their impact, foster deeper community relationships, and experience the immense satisfaction that comes from making a difference in the lives of others. And of course, after each hard-working community shift … there’s always the promise of happy hour or brunch.
