Junior Auxiliary of Columbus

About

The Junior Auxiliary of Columbus is a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer organization committed to providing for children in Lowndes County, Mississippi. Founded in 1943, the chapter operates under the National Association of Junior Auxiliaries (NAJA), delivering service projects focused on basic human needs, healthy lifestyles, financial education, and student support:
General Welfare / Clothing Projects
Art Reach: Provides individual bags containing essential art and school supplies directly to local elementary schools. Developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, members have distributed over 3,000 supply bags to students across the Columbus Municipal School District.
In-Need / General Welfare Support: Fulfills core basic needs for children in Lowndes County, ensuring children receive essential items such as clothing, hygiene supplies, and emergency support.
Service Projects
Fit & Fabulous Forever (F3): An educational project dedicated to encouraging healthy lifestyle choices among local elementary students. Members deliver interactive presentations focusing on proper nutrition, adequate hydration, and active living.
Anti-Bullying & Inclusion Initiatives: Delivers educational programming across local schools centered around anti-bullying and empowering children with physical or developmental disabilities.
Scholarship
NAJA Scholarship Project: Initiated in 1963, this program strives to award at least $25,000 in scholarships every year to graduating high school seniors across Lowndes County. Recipients are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and a demonstrated commitment to community volunteerism.
Civics Projects
Reality Fair: An interactive financial literacy simulation presented to local high school juniors and seniors. Students receive randomized salaries and navigate real-world budget stations (purchasing housing, transportation, utilities, groceries, and technology) to learn the value of financial security and practical budgeting on a limited income.
JA Crown Club: A youth leadership and civic auxiliary for local high school young women. Members are guided by JA advisors to build leadership skills, foster a spirit of volunteerism, and engage directly in social, civic, and community service projects across Lowndes County.

Essential details

Who is eligible

Their projects are designed to support children and families in need of aid.

Get involved

Spanish language support