Thank you for stopping by! My name is Brooke Goldin, and I have the honor and privilege of serving as the current President for the Junior League of Des Moines (JLDM). I am so glad you’ve found us. 

Many have heard of the Junior League, but some do not know how deep our roots go or who we are today. While the work and the organization has evolved, the words of our founder, Mary Harriman, still ring true 100+ years later – “We have the responsibility to act, and we have the opportunity to conscientiously act to affect the environment around us.”

And act, we do. Our global impact is impressive, and our local legacy is strong. Having been an integral part of the inception of several Des Moines organizations including ChildServe, Science Center of Iowa, Dorothy’s House, and the Des Moines Art Center, JLDM has an extensive history of volunteerism and community impact. Our 230+ Sustaining Members will tell you that League has not only positively impacted their personal trajectory, it has forever changed Des Moines for the better.

But who is League today? I am here to tell you that this is a dynamic group of more than 112,000 change agents in over 300 cities in six countries. Together, we are developing women to do a world of good. We proactively educate ourselves on the issues facing our community, ask how we can help, and show up for others. 

When I moved to Des Moines in 2017, I was looking for a way to meet people and learn about my new community. My friend told me that her mom had met her best friends in Junior League, so I thought I would give that try. At that time, I had no idea what an integral part of my life the organization would become. It did not take long to realize the unique offerings of League, and it became clear that I had found a place that not only offers social and volunteer opportunities, but avenues to personal development, training opportunities, and a strong network of impressive women.

Junior League of Des Moines is a small but mighty group, and at times it can feel challenging to see the fruits of our labor. But during the May 2024 Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) Annual Conference in New Orleans, my fellow Board Member, Breanna Sullivan, and I gathered with more than 200 other League leaders to witness the global impact of the organization. It was powerful to be with so many other women who work hard to develop themselves and their communities with a common goal of advancing women’s leadership. I was reminded that Junior League is a force to be reckoned with, and I am so proud to be a part of the movement.

Our Members are busy women, and Junior League is a time commitment to be sure. My “why” goes beyond my original intent, and is more than just the League mission. While I am dedicated to advancing women’s leadership, to my community, and to my personal goals, I stay with League because I am deeply committed to my fellow JLDM Members and the potential they wield. The women in this group lift each other up, care intensely about their community, and generously give their time and talent. 

Whether you are looking to join our League, support our work, or just learn more, I encourage you to reach out at any time. It is always a good time to work together to create lasting change here in Des Moines. 

Sincerely,

Brooke Goldin
President, June 2024 – May 2026