In 1923, 10 New Orleans women came together to form the Junior League of New Orleans. Inspired to create positive change in their beloved city, these founders recruited like-minded women and joined the Association of Junior Leagues International, a young organization that had only been in existence for two years. JLNO was officially launched on March 31, 1924 with 40 women dedicated to making a difference in New Orleans. From its humble beginning of 40 women, JLNO’s membership has grown to more than 2,200 women with a rich history that spans more than 92 years.
Integral to JLNO are its fundraisers. From 1930-1934, the JLNO operated a coffee shop at 724 Common Street to raise money for its charitable endeavors. Today, JLNO operates Bloomin’ Deals Thrift Shop on Freret Street. In addition to raising funds for JLNO’s projects and activities, Bloomin’ Deals functions as a social center and economic anchor for the Freret neighborhood.
JLNO is dedicated to improving the New Orleans community through is focus area of Advancing the Wellbeing of Women. Just as its members served up coffee and waffles on Common Street in the 1930s, they have been ringing up gently used clothing on Freret Street since 1960. JLNO members are dedicated to New Orleans, and JLNO is a fixture that will continue to serve this community for the next 100 years.
Mrs. Jack Moore, the former Miss Maud Butterworth, is one of the young society matrons who do their bit at the Junior League Coffee shop to raise funds for the league’s social service work.
