Welcome to the Junior League of Gainesville! It is with deep pride and great enthusiasm that I serve as President of the Junior League of Gainesville, Florida (JLG).

For over a century, the women of Junior Leagues around the globe have led with both heart and purpose. Here in Gainesville, that legacy is alive and thriving in the work we do to support our local community, advance volunteerism, and develop the community leaders of tomorrow.

Since our founding in 1935, the Junior League of Gainesville has been a driving force for positive change in our community. As the oldest nonprofit in Gainesville, we are proud of our legacy—and even more excited about the future we’re building together.

Our members collectively contribute hundreds of hours of service each year, driving initiatives that create meaningful change and responding with compassion and creativity to the evolving needs of our community.

Whether through our signature programs like Action Against Hunger, the Child Hunger work group, Miracle on Mainstreet, and the Amazing Give or through powerful partnerships with over 40 community agencies, more than 300 JLG members bring action, education, advocacy, and leadership with every interaction and experience. Our League is able to support these programs and partners because of the financial support from our members, our generous sponsors, and our beloved fundraisers.

Whether you’re a prospective member, a community partner, or simply a supporter of our mission–we invite you to explore, engage, and join us in this incredible journey of service and leadership. If you’re interested in joining us, we welcome new members twice each year and encourage you to visit our membership page for more information. If you’re inspired to support our work, we are grateful for your generosity—as your financial support directly fuels our community programs and initiatives. You’ll find donation and sponsorship options on our site.

2025 marks an exciting chapter for us. As we celebrate our 90th anniversary, we invite you to be part of this milestone year as we honor the past while investing in the next generation of women leaders.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at president@gainesvillejrleague.org if you have any questions, ideas, or would like to connect.

With gratitude and purpose,
Melissa Zawada
President, 2025–2026
Junior League of Gainesville