PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

This year the Houston Junior Forum celebrates its 65th anniversary. In 1946, a group of 22 women formed the Houston Junior Forum to address the emerging needs of special populations in the Houston community. Their vision of community service became a living reality which transformed the lives of those they served, enriched the skills of their membership, and developed lasting friendships along the way.

The original focus of the founding members was to provide a nursery school to serve low income children in Houston’s East End neighborhoods.  As of May 2009, over 3,000 children graduated from the HJF Community House Preschool well prepared to enter public kindergarten with a command of the English language. Several hundred graduates of the preschool have fulfilled their dreams of college and graduate studies as a result of $2,000 scholarships provided annually by HJF for the entire length of their studies.  Thirty-four students are currently on scholarship.

Over the years, the organization’s scope expanded to include services for senior adults.  For 40 years, thousands of senior adults benefited from daily lunch and programs at the HJF Recreation Center for Older Adults prior to its closing in 2004 as multiple resources became available throughout the city.  Half a million seniors and their caregivers locate resources annually through the Senior Guidance Program and Directory which was created and operated by HJF prior to its transition to an independent non-profit organization in 2005.  Since 1969, HJF has operated a Resale Shop, currently located in the Heights, with profits dedicated to the programs and operating budget of the organization.

Our mission: "The Houston Junior Forum is a nonprofit women's volunteer organization committed to providing charitable service to the children, youth and senior adults in the Houston community."

The Houston Junior Forum’s 406 members bring a diversity of experiences, talents and interest to their volunteer work. Volunteers serve at the HJF Resale Shop; provide classroom support for preschool children at The Lion Lane School and Yellowstone Academy; assist with programs for senior adults at the All Saints Third Age Learning Center,  Katy Social Services,  Home Delivered Meals of Katy and  The Senior Guidance Directory;  and secure funding and support for the HJF College Scholarship Program.

Priorities for 2010-2011 include a focus on expanding membership and training, and strengthening our commitment to service through projects, scholarships, and in a new initiative involving community grants.  Additionally, we will celebrate the organization’s 65th anniversary, and raise funds at a “FUN” Raising event in April.

In the past, the members of this organization have demonstrated a vitality and commitment which has resulted in extraordinary accomplishment.  For these past efforts, they deserve the highest praise and gratitude.  We will continue to respond to the changing needs in our community and to adapt to the new realities which influence volunteer participation.

We invite you to contact us and join in supporting programs that enhance the quality of life for many in the greater Houston area. Help us to continue the proud 65 year legacy of the Houston Junior Forum.

Janet Juban, President
Houston Junior Forum

To contact HJF, please call 713-868-1850, or email us.