Junior Auxiliary of McMinnville announces new Executive Board
Junior Auxiliary of McMinnville is welcoming new leadership and new members this summer as the organization prepares for another year of serving children and families throughout Warren County.
Holly Palombo was recently named president of the organization's 2026-2027 Executive Board, part of a yearly changeup as members step up into leadership positions.
"I am very excited to serve as president for the upcoming JA year," said Palombo. "I've been on the Executive Board for the past two years as PR chair and vice president. I've learned so much from the women who held this position before me, and I hope to live up to the example they set."
Joining Palombo on the 2026-2027 Executive Board are Hannah Jones as vice president, Kirby Williams as second vice president, Haley Underhill as recording secretary, Veronika Kesey as treasurer, Ally Grider as vice treasurer, Janet Powell as parliamentarian, Tenara Martin as ex-officio, Najely Perez as membership chair, Crystal Gale as public relations chair, Graylin Benusches as education chair, Jaci Maynard as service projects chair and Penny Crouch as finance projects chair.
Palombo said two priorities will guide the organization during the coming year: strengthening membership and increasing community outreach.
Applications are now open for Junior Auxiliary's next provisional class, which will begin this fall. Women who are at least 21 years old, live in Warren County and have a desire to serve the community are encouraged to apply through any current Junior Auxiliary member.
Those interested in learning more are invited to attend a prospective member social on Thursday, Aug. 7, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Abby Myers’ new venue Barre Social Events Center at 107 Lyon Street. The come-and-go event will feature light refreshments and give prospective members an opportunity to meet current Junior Auxiliary members, ask questions about the organization and complete an application.
While there’s hope to bring in new members, Palombo also hopes to strengthen relationships with the chapter's associate and lifetime members.
"Just because your active years in JA are over doesn't mean the sisterhood should end," she said. "I'm excited to keep former members in the loop with a new newsletter, thanks to our Membership Team, and to provide opportunities for them to continue giving back to our community."
Community service remains at the heart of Junior Auxiliary's mission, and Palombo said she is eager to continue programs that directly impact local children and families.
Among her favorite projects is the organization's monthly work with Hamilton Street Activity Center, where members organize activities and outings designed to encourage and inspire.
"We love spending time with the Hamilton Street girls each month," said Palombo. "Miss Lady is amazing about making sure we have opportunities to take them on fun outings, whether it's playing BINGO at the nursing home or visiting a local business to learn what it's like to be an entrepreneur."
As a teacher, Palombo said one program especially resonates with her.
The Transitional Education Assistance Program helps high school seniors and first-year college or vocational students overcome financial and educational barriers as they pursue higher education or workforce training.
"We help bridge the gap for high school seniors and college or vocational freshmen who may need financial assistance or educational guidance to ensure they graduate and get started on a successful career," said Palombo. "I've seen students held back by expenses that scholarships don't cover. I've also worked with students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education and simply don't have someone at home who knows how to navigate applications, financial aid or enrollment paperwork. That's where we come in. It's such a meaningful program, and I'm proud of the difference it makes."
Junior Auxiliary will also continue hosting many of its signature community events, including Coats for the Community, Christmas in the Park and Sip & Saveur, its largest annual fundraiser.
"They bring our community together and allow us to give back in a fun and meaningful way," said Palombo. "Sip & Saveur is our biggest fundraiser each year, and it makes so much of what we do possible. The funds raised help provide high school scholarships, support our Transitional Education Assistance Program and allow us to continue offering free programs and events throughout the community. It truly takes the support of our community to make our mission possible, and we are so grateful for that support."
