Junior League of Fort Worth

Fundraisers

Each year, the Junior League of Fort Worth raises significant funds, which are then directed toward vital projects that address the needs of and have a positive impact on the lives of women and children in the community. Throughout its history, the JLFW has developed and participated in a variety of fundraisers, from one-time events such as the grand openings of the Blackstone Hotel in 1930 and the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in 1973, to annual traditions like "yelling and selling" programs at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Explore this exhibit to learn more about some of JLFW's longest-running fundraisers.

Bargain Box/Double Exposure

In August 1948, the Junior League of Fort Worth began operations of the Bargain Box, a resale shop for clothing, toys, and household items. The Bargain Box served as a training ground for League volunteers, who did most of the selling and pricing of merchandise, and a community resource for lower-income residents to shop for high-quality goods. The store depended on donations from League members and local retailers, and all profits were returned to the Fort Worth community. During 1972-1973, the Junior League of Fort Worth changed the name of the store to Double Exposure, and it continued to operate at several different locations until 2013.

Christmas in Cowtown

In 2007, the Junior League of Fort Worth innaugurated the Christmas in Cowtown Holiday Market, a unique holiday shopping experience with over 100 top-end vendors from around the country. Now an annual fundraiser, Christmas in Cowtown also includes special events such as preview parties, luncheons, and "Cookies and Cocoa with Santa." Since its inception, the Christmas in Cowtown Holiday Market has raised more than $5,000,000 to support JLFW's community projects.

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Grand Entry Gala

The Junior League of Fort Worth's first Grand Entry Gala kicked off the 2013 Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Now an annual event held in partnership with the Stock Show, JLFW's Grand Entry Gala celebrates Fort Worth's cowboy culture and all that "Rodeo Season" has to offer. Always a night to remember, funds raised at the event help fund the League's mission to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and improve our community through the effective action of trained volunteers.

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Mayfest

Mayfest is held the first weekend of every May in Fort Worth, attracting over 220,000 visitors each year. Inspired to beautify the banks of the Trinity River after historic flooding, Junior League of Fort Worth President Phyllis Tilley led the effort to found Mayfest in 1973. The family-friendly festival raises funds for community nonprofit programs and continued improvement and awareness of parks and the Trinity River. Although Mayfest became its own nonprofit in 1987 and is no longer considered a JLFW fundraiser, the League is still a sponsoring organization, with members serving on its board of directors and as volunteers at the event. Mayfest has raised over $7.5 million for the community.

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Rodeo Program Sales

One of the Junior League of Fort Worth's longest-running and best-loved fundraisers is selling programs at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. The League first partnered with the Rodeo in 1957, when it raised $1,319.39 for charities focused on children. Profits have grown exponentially since that first year - the League receives $1 for each program sold - and the JLFW has added incentive prizes and gift certificates for top-selling members. It is now a cherished League tradition to don Western wear and come out to "yell and sell" at the Rodeo each year.