Founded in 1923, the Junior League of Columbus is part of a network of 298 Junior Leagues across the world. We are a learning organization dedicated to; promoting voluntarism through our Quick Impact opportunities, developing the potential of women through our hands-on training through placements, and improving communities through projects and programs developed by our organization. Our programs included Kelton House Museum & Garden and our Bridging the G.A.P. Project.

Carol Stewart Village is a neighborhood designed for young adults ages 18–24, many of whom are aging out of foster care. It features 62 studio apartments and provides access to jobs, education, health care, mental health and addiction services, and strong support through mentorships and community engagement. Through project-based vouchers from Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), residents can live at CSV for up to seven years while building the stability needed for long-term success. CSV is also part of a National Institutes of Health–funded study, the HOME Project, facilitated by The Ohio State University, studying how stable housing can help prevent opioid addiction among youth.

As part of its commitment to strengthening the Central Ohio community, the Junior League of Columbus develops women civic leaders who identify community needs and take action through hands-on service and strategic initiatives. Bridging the G.A.P. is one of those key initiatives, focused on supporting youth as they transition out of foster care and into independent living.

Building on our ongoing support of Carol Stewart Village, the Junior League of Columbus has initiated a project aimed at supporting youth as they transition out of foster care and into independent living. Through this project, we will equip future residents of Carol Stewart Village with essential household necessities as they move into their very first apartments.

As part of this effort, we are assembling 62 welcome baskets, one for each resident at Carol Stewart Village. These baskets help transform an empty apartment into a home and include essential items such as:

● Dish soap and sponges

● Multi-purpose cleaner or cleaning wipes

● Paper towels

● Toilet paper and toilet brush

● Trash bags

● Laundry detergent

● Laundry basket (which also serves as a moving basket)

JLC Welcome Baskets for Carol Stewart Village

Team Members