1929 A Year of Change-
The Roaring Twenties came to an abrupt halt with the Great Crash of the stock market. Thirteen women saw the need for dedicated trained volunteers. Their goal was to foster greater interest in the areas of social, economic, educational, cultural and civil conditions in Rockford. A service league was formed which became the Junior League of Rockford, Inc. (JLR).

1940's The War Effort-

Members donated time for fuel, oil, and food rationing, as well as offering classes in surgical dressing and nurses aid. They volunteered as clerks in civil and defense offices, sold war stamps and bonds, and welcomed soldiers as hostesses at the local USO Center.

1950’s Focus on Education-

JLR offered supplemental education courses through the school system. With the advent of television, the League began a very successful series of children's shows.

1960’s Rockford's Youth Take Front Stage-

League projects revolved around reading programs, community resources, and help for the mentally handicapped.

1970’s Rockford Faces Serious Social Issues-

Drug awareness in our schools was targeted. Projects addressed elder care and the prevention of child abuse. Science and art education for children became a major League project.

1980’s Involvement with Children Expands-

Believing that the youth of American was its future, improvement classes were offered to teens and an annual scholarship was instituted for outstanding volunteer service by a high school senior. Drug and alcohol abuse prevention became a focus and help for women and children experiencing their first involvement in the judicial system was offered.

1990’s Child Welfare and Education-

JLR provided a life-coping skills class for teen moms. A collaboration with the Discovery Center and the Rockford Park District produced a volunteer built, nationally renown, outdoor science park. JLR establishes a home-away-from-home for out-of-town families visiting a relative in a local hospital. The League reaches out to help other non-profit agencies that focus on child welfare.