For almost 70 years, the Junior League of Sarasota has partnered with local organizations to identify community needs and take meaningful action—through volunteer service, funding, and leadership development. Today, our members continue that work by strengthening nonprofits, supporting families, and expanding opportunity across Sarasota County.

Women Meeting Community Needs in Sarasota County Since 1957

In our nearly 70-year history, Junior League volunteers have been instrumental in launching and shaping organizations and programs that remain essential to Sarasota today—including Children First, Teen Court, Historic Spanish Point, the Child Protection Center, and the Sarasota County School District’s Volunteer & Partnership Office.

What began as a small group of women responding to immediate needs has evolved into a sustained legacy of identifying gaps and building solutions that last.  Over time, our work has expanded to address critical community priorities—from early childhood education and youth development to hunger outreach and family support initiatives.

In recent years, we have also supported youth transitioning out of foster care, helping provide stability, essential resources, and community connection during a critical stage of independence.

How We Drive Impact

We support our community through a range of flexible, impact-driven approaches, meeting both immediate needs and long-term challenges.

Volunteer-Led Projects & Grants

Hands-on volunteer support and targeted funding to strengthen nonprofit programs and expand community impact.

Applications open from May 15 – August 1, 2026.

• Community Project Application: Apply Here
• Community Grants Application: Apply Here

👉 Explore Grants & Community Projects

Quick Impact Shifts

Responsive volunteer shifts that meet nonprofit needs, providing immediate support without detailed planning. From donation sorting to direct service, these volunteer shifts help remove barriers for local families and organizations in real time.

👉 Learn More About Quick-Impact Shifts

Large-Scale Community Projects

Multi-year initiatives designed to address complex challenges and create lasting change.

Our current 70th Anniversary Legacy Project, Furnishing Hope at Nancy’s Village, will prepare fully furnished homes for young adults aging out of foster care—ensuring they begin independent life with stability, dignity, and the essentials needed for long-term success.

👉 Learn more about Furnishing Hope at Nancy’s Village

Civic Education & Advocacy

As part of a statewide network of Junior Leagues, we engage in nonpartisan education and advocacy efforts that advance policies supporting women, children, and families.

This work equips our members and the public to better understand community challenges, engage in informed dialogue, and advocate for meaningful, systemic change.

👉 Learn more our State Public Affairs work

Partner With Us

We’re proud to work alongside organizations creating meaningful change, and we’re always looking for new ways to support community-driven impact. Contact CommunityVP@JLSarasota.org for collaboration opportunities. 

Developing Leaders. Strengthening Communities.

At the core of our work is leadership development. We equip women with the skills, training, and real-world experience needed to become effective civic leaders — who then bring that leadership into nonprofits, businesses, and community initiatives across Sarasota.

The result is not just individual projects, but a multiplier effect of leadership and impact throughout the community.

Reach out to Hello@JLSarasota.org to discuss more opportunities to partner and build stronger communities together.