Stronger Together. Better Together.

At the Junior League of Raleigh, we believe that creating and sustaining a diverse membership is critical to fulfilling our mission.

As part of the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI), we embrace the organization’s commitment to diversity:

“We believe that creating and sustaining a diverse Membership is critical to our Mission. Living the value of diversity means we are committed to centering equity, inclusion, and belonging in our individual, organizational, and community relationships.”

We know that stronger communities are built when women with different backgrounds, lived experiences, perspectives, and ideas come together to lead and serve.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) isn’t a single initiative—it’s woven into who we are as an organization. It influences how we lead, how we serve, how we collaborate, and how we create meaningful community impact throughout Wake County.

Because when every member feels welcomed, valued, respected, and empowered to lead, our League—and our community—is stronger.

Our Commitment

The Junior League welcomes all women who value our mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations, and communities.

At the Junior League of Raleigh, we strive to cultivate a League where every member experiences a genuine sense of belonging and has the opportunity to contribute their unique talents, experiences, and perspectives.

Our commitment extends beyond our membership. It guides how we develop leaders, engage volunteers, build community partnerships, communicate our mission, and serve Wake County.

We recognize that creating an inclusive culture is an ongoing journey—one that requires listening, learning, growing, and leading together.

DEIB in Action

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging are not standalone initiatives—they are embedded throughout the work of the Junior League of Raleigh.

Our commitment is reflected through:

• Our bylaws, strategic plan, and organizational policies.
• Leadership development and member education.
• Cultural competency and belonging initiatives.
• Inclusive marketing and communications.
• Recruitment, retention, and member engagement efforts.
• Community partnerships that reflect the diverse communities of Wake County.
• Affinity Groups that foster connection and shared experiences.
• Ongoing opportunities for learning, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue.

Our goal is to create an environment where every member feels welcomed, respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

DEIB Committee

Advancing Belonging Through Leadership

The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Committee plays an important role in helping the Junior League of Raleigh cultivate a welcoming and inclusive member experience.

Working alongside League leadership, the committee promotes awareness, education, and opportunities that strengthen belonging throughout the organization while supporting the League’s mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact.

Throughout the League year, the committee:

• Plans educational programs and member learning opportunities.
• Encourages thoughtful conversations around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Partners with League councils, committees, and affinity groups to foster an inclusive member experience.
• Supports resources and initiatives that reflect the diverse communities we serve.
• Provides guidance on inclusive communications, programming, and engagement.
• Celebrates cultural observances and opportunities for learning throughout the year.
• Encourages a culture where every member feels valued, respected, and connected.

The committee’s work is rooted in continuous learning, collaboration, and the belief that stronger leadership begins with creating a stronger sense of belonging.

Affinity Groups

Building Community Through Connection

The Junior League of Raleigh’s Affinity Groups provide members with opportunities to connect through shared experiences while fostering greater understanding, collaboration, and belonging across the League.

Open to all members who have an interest in learning, supporting, and engaging with each community, Affinity Groups strengthen relationships, encourage meaningful dialogue, and help create a welcoming environment where every member can thrive.

Women of Color Affinity Group

The Women of Color Affinity Group creates opportunities for fellowship, leadership development, service, and meaningful conversations while celebrating the richness of diverse cultures, experiences, and perspectives.

Throughout the League year, the group hosts programs and events designed to build community, encourage dialogue, and strengthen relationships among members.

Recent activities have included:

• Monthly Book Club discussions featuring diverse authors and perspectives.
• Cultural experiences at local museums, parks, and community venues.
• Networking and fellowship events that foster connection and belonging.
• Volunteer service projects with Junior League community partners.
• Collaborative programming with other League committees and affinity groups.
• Educational programs recognizing Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and other cultural observances.

The Women of Color Affinity Group welcomes all members who are interested in learning from one another, celebrating diverse perspectives, and building a stronger League together.

Interested in joining the Women of Color Affinity Group?

We’d love to connect with you.

Email: jlrwocaffinitygroup@gmail.com

Military Family & Friends Affinity Group

The Military Family & Friends Affinity Group brings together members who are active-duty service members, veterans, military spouses, military children, family members, friends, and supporters of the military community.

Following its relaunch for the 2026–2027 League year, the group is focused on building a welcoming community where members can connect through shared experiences, fellowship, service, and support.

Members can look forward to opportunities including:

• Networking and fellowship events.
• Community service opportunities.
• Educational programs and guest speakers.
• Military family support initiatives.
• Social gatherings and relationship building.
• Collaboration with fellow Junior League members and affinity groups.
• Prior projects included Paws4Peace Dog Pull Toy service project, making Valentine’s Day cards for veterans at the VA’s Home-Based Primary Care Unit, writing letters and thank-you notes to active military and veterans, and a collection drive for the USO Lounge at Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

You do not have to be affiliated with the military to participate. Whether you’ve served, supported someone who has served, or simply want to learn more and connect with others, all members are welcome.

Interested in joining the Military Family & Friends Affinity Group?

We’d love to hear from you.

Email: jlrmffaffinitygroup@gmail.com

Looking Ahead

Creating a culture of belonging is an ongoing commitment—not a destination.

The Junior League of Raleigh will continue listening, learning, and evolving as we strive to create an organization where every member feels welcomed, valued, respected, and empowered to lead.

Together, we are building a League that reflects the strength, diversity, and spirit of Wake County while advancing women’s leadership through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.