Why wait to be leaders of tomorrow when you can be leaders today?

That philosophy has sent a surge of momentum through the Junior Frisco Women's League. The social and service organization started in 2006, but has seen increased interest since a push to build the group up in 2013, said Tracy Gamble, JrFWL sponsor and vice president. She is also an FWL board member.

JrFWL operates under the umbrella of the established Frisco Women's League. It brings female high school teens together, and offers fellowship and volunteer opportunities to its members they might not have otherwise.

"JrFWL can take any type of girl and make them feel special and give them the confidence that they can accomplish anything," said Allison McGraw, a junior at Centennial High School. "This is why I love being a member, because we are a band of sisters trying to make our city the best it can be."

In 2013, the program received 85 applications. About 60 were picked based on a combination of grades and service-mindedness.

The applicants come from diverse backgrounds, Gamble said.

The application process for the coming year begins in March. About 30 participants are expected to return to the program and another 60 will be accepted.

Recruitment takes place through Frisco ISD high school counselors.Gamble said the group will be grown slowly over the next few years and will be capped at about 150 members.

Monthly meetings are held throughout the school year at the Keller Williams Realty building on Preston Road. Volunteer opportunities are made possible through the FWL's connection with local charities.

"When you set a standard, a high bar for them, they will rise up to that," she said. "The girls have loved it, they have thrived. They are high achievers."

JrFWL members volunteer at numerous events, including charity galas, city events, youth festivals, 5k fundraisers, a therapeutic riding center and more.

"We want them to understand the impact of service," Gamble said.

One charity JrFWL participates with, started by the Frisco Chamber of Commerce women's group, is Cinderella's Closet, where gently used prom dresses and accessories are donated and given away to students who might not otherwise be able to afford them.

"They can be the leaders of today. They don't need to wait until they are adults to take these responsibilities," Gamble said.

Organizations served by Junior FWL

True Blue–Ethan Empey Foundation

Frisco Family Services

Frisco Sunrise Rotary

North Texas Military Association

Mayor's Youth Council

Hope Park of Frisco

Leadership Prep Academy

Sci-Tech Discovery Center

ManeGait Therapeutic Horsemanship

Frisco Football League

Frisco Heritage Association

Frisco Education Foundation

Boys & Girls Club of Collin County