Since 1957, Junior League of Lafayette has invested over $6.5-million into Acadiana through its community programs and grants to external nonprofit partners. Though Community Programs have evolved through the years, the impact made by continuing programs remains evident across the community. SMILES (2003), in partnership with Miles Perret Cancer Services, provides an escape and supportive environment through age-appropriate activities for children ages 5-18 who are fighting cancer or have a parent/sibling with cancer. The ever-relevant and critical issue of distracted driving and driving under the influence is faced head-on during NO FEAR NO FUTURE (2004), hosted at a local high school each Spring. Finally, to fill the need of diapers for low to moderate-income families, the Diaper Bank (2019) was created partnering Junior League of Lafayette with community partners such as The Desormeaux Foundation, The Family Tree, Love INC., Seasons The Green Leaf, United Way of Acadiana, and Catholic Charities of Acadiana.

With a mission to “advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training,” Junior League of Lafayette not only financially supports community programs, but empowers volunteers to implement programs, events and projects. With a membership of over 600 women volunteers, Junior League of Lafayette is proud to have a substantial, positive and lasting impact on our community through our Community Programs and partnerships.