Camden Junior Welfare League
What We Do
Twelve young women met at the Palmetto Tea Room in Camden in January 1928 to discuss the formation of a social club to do child welfare work in Kershaw County. Thus was born the Junior Welfare League, Inc.
The scope of concern of that first group has broadened and membership has more than doubled through the years.
The purpose of the League is to improve and enrich the social and economic environment of the children of Kershaw County, foster among its members interest in social, cultural, economic, and civil affairs of Camden and Kershaw County, and to render voluntary services for the betterment of such affairs.
The Junior Welfare League motto is "My Part is to improve the present moment." Membership of the League is comprised of active and provisional members, who live or work in Kershaw County and are at least 21 years of age. There is no age limit to being a member of the League.
In addition, those who have completed League requirements may maintain sustainer status. Those who have become sustainers give valuable assistance to current League members.
To learn more about the League's community service commitments and opportunities, or to request the League's assistance,
Over 90 Years of Dedication!
In 2018, the Camden Junior Welfare League celebrated its 90th anniversary, bringing together more than 100 members who have served on the League for the benefit of all children in Kershaw County throughout the decades. The Camden Junior Welfare League began in 1928, when a small group of women gathered over tea and decided to organize and do their part for the benefit of children in the community. Membership of the League is comprised of active and provisional members, who live or work in Kershaw County and are under the age of forty-five. After five years of active status, members may maintain sustainer status, volunteering at League events, giving valuable assistance to current League members, and enjoying social events throughout the year.
The Camden Junior Welfare League has become best known for its annual Candlelight Tour of Homes each December, showcasing some of most beautiful homes and historic buildings in the community. That fundraising effort, along with others throughout the year, allow the League to provide scholarships to students planning to attend college and focus on a "helping profession" such as nursing, healthcare, social work, education or ministry. Each year, at least one student from each high school in Kershaw County is chosen to receive a minimum of $1,000 grant award. Grants are also awarded each year to teachers and nonprofits working with Kershaw County children.