We are excited to open the Beeson Community Fund process with a request for Letters of Intent. All LOIs are due Friday, October 2, 2026 at 11:59pm.   

Contact Information:
Beeson Community Fund Committee Chair
beesonfund@jlbonline.com

Application Portal found HERE!

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the JLB Beeson Community Fund?

In 2001, the JLB received a generous gift from philanthropist Lucille Stewart Beeson. She bequeathed “The Charity Fund of the Junior League of Birmingham 4.3% of the net income” from her residual trust. She requested that the JLB use the funds to expand its charitable reach enabling a greater impact in the Birmingham community.

Who can apply for a JLB Beeson Community Fund Grant?

To be eligible for funding, your organization must be a 501(c)(3) and located within Jefferson and Shelby counties. Priority is given to projects/programs that align with the Junior League of Birmingham’s mission and promote systemic change within our community.

What is the average size of a grant request?

A grant request must be for at least $25,000, but the grant awarded may be for less than the requested amount. The JLB Beeson Community Fund receives grants ranging from single-year, $25,000 requests to much larger, multi-year requests.

What type of projects has JLB’s Beeson Community Fund supported in the past?

Following a brief hiatus during COVID, the JLB Beeson community fund has supported over 15 agencies with varying projects including 16th Street Baptist Church Education and Visitor Center – Capital Campaign, Jefferson State Community College – Women in Welding Program, The Lovelady Center – Styled for Success Project, Jefferson County Greenways Foundation –  East Side Park Initiative, and Community Foodbank of Central Alabama – Capital Campaign.

What’s the difference between the JLB’s Community Research Process and the JLB’s Beeson Community Fund?

JLB’s Community Research Process:  Each year, organizations can request trained volunteers – along with funding – for specific projects through the JLB’s Community Research process.

JLB’s Beeson Community Fund: This grant awards only funds with no volunteer component and a focus on creating systemic change in the Greater Birmingham community through transformational initiatives . The committee is separate from the JLB’s Community Research process.

Can I apply for more than one grant?

Yes, however, an organization has yet to receive multiple Beeson grants in one year. An organization may also apply for both a Community Research grant and a Beeson Community Fund grant.

Can I apply for a multi-year grant?

Yes, if awarded, the grant must be fully distributed within three (3) years of grant approval.