EXECUCOM Summer 2021

JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED • SUMMER 2021

EXECUCOM

IN THIS ISSUE...

JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED 1930 17TH STREET, NW WASHINGTON, DC 20009 https://jackandjillinc.org/ (202) 667-7010

We recognize our Committees and Task Forces as they continue to serve with diligence and excellence. ENJOY! KORNISHA M. BROWN, National President CLAUDIA N. CURTIS, National Vice President NADINE J. GIBSON, National Treasurer SHIRELL A. GROSS, National Program Director ROBIN RICE HODGES, National Recording Secretary SATIVA LEACH-BOWEN, National Corresponding Secretary FLORENCE LANKFORD, National Editor

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT Kornisha McGill Brown VICE PRESIDENT Claudia N. Curtis TREASURER Nadine J. Gibson PROGRAM DIRECTOR Shirell A. Gross RECORDING SECRETARY Robin Rice Hodges CORRESPONDING SECRETARY Sativa Leach-Bowen EDITOR Florence Lankford

JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC.

STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Joi Grady

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT Fatima Ceesay MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Natasha Johnstone ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR Shalieda Marquez COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Candace Moore SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER Kristjen Renard

TO CONTACT JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA,INC:

Email: admin@jack-and-jill.org Call: 1-202-667-7010 Write: Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated 1930 17th Street, Northwest, Washington, DC 20009 Web: http://jackandjillinc.org

EXECUCOM SUMMER 2021

IN THIS ISSUE OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT National Five Star Committee 3 National Protocol Committee 4 National Strategic Planning and Relevance Committee 6 National Emergency Responders Task Force 7 National Strategic Partnerships Task Force 8 OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT National Associates Committee 11 National Membership Committee 12 National Leadership Training & Development Task Force 13 Small and Mighty Chapter Task Force 14

OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL TREASURER Growing Strategically Task Force Our Health Matters Task Force

17 18

OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR National Programming Committee 21 National Curriculum Committee 22 We Are One Task Force 23

OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL RECORDING SECRETARY National Nominating Committee 25 National Technology Committee 26 National Youth Trip Task Force 27

OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL CORRESPONDING SECRETARY National Bylaws Committee 31 National Fathers’ Auxiliary 32 National Legislative Committee 33 National Policies and Procedures Committee 35 National Governance Task Force 36 OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL EDITOR National Public Relations Committee 39 National Teen Board 40 National Historical Task Force 41

FROM YOUR 2020-22 NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD

Dear Mothers of Jack and Jill of America,

T

he 2020-2022 National Executive Board is delighted to welcome you to the Summer edition of EXECUCOM. We decided to take a different approach to this edition and write a unified welcome letter. More than ever, the past year has taught us that there is strength in coming together as one.

Although we are in different regions, our collective membership is approximately 12,000 mothers strong with “The Power to Make a Difference For All Children. On Mission. On Purpose.” This unity has allowed our organization to not just survive, but thrive, during one of the most challenging, pivotal periods in our history. Now, we are grateful to see glimmers of hope signaling the dawn of a new season and return to some sense of normalcy for our families, the nation, and the world. As your 2020-2022 Administration, THANK YOU for your trust, patience, and empathy during the pandemic as well as abiding by our safety measures and protocol.

Typically, EXECUCOM highlights the accomplishments and activities of the National Executive Board; however, in this edition, we are placing the focus on our committee members in recognition for their diligence and service. The 2020-2022 National Executive Board is also celebrating several developments within our organization over the past few months. We would like to send a warm welcome to new mother members in gratitude for joining us in our commitment to nurture future African American leaders.

Additionally, congratulations to our 2021 graduates, teen conference officers, and new mothers regional conference officers.

As the fall approaches, we look forward to more extraordinary programming for 2021-2022 as well as returning to in-person events in each of our regions. Through it all, we maintain a desire to do the best programming we can for our children in the safest way possible.

Mothers, we are honored to continue serving you. We hope you enjoy this Summer edition of EXECUCOM and pray that you and your families remain well.

Long Live Jack and Jill,

Kornisha M. Brown National President

Robin Rice Hodges National Recording Secretary

Claudia N. Curtis National Vice President

Sativa Leach-Bowen National Corresponding Secretary

Nadine J. Gibson National Treasurer

Florence Lankford National Editor

Shirell A. Gross National Program Director

ON PURPOSE.

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN

EXECUTIVE BOARD LIAISON National Five Star Committee National Protocol Committee National Strategic Planning and Relevance Committee National Emergency Responders Task Force National Strategic Partnerships Task Force

SUMMER 2021 / 4

ON MISSION.

T

he Five Star Chapter Excellence initiative was introduced in 2008 by our 21st National President Jacqueline Moore Bowles. Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is honored to now have over 76 chapters across all seven regions that have achieved the Five Star Recognition.

Keys to success remain unchanged – chapter vision, commitment, planning, organization, dedication and teamwork!

Five Star Chapter Excellence 2.2 has provided several webinars since the beginning of 2021: Program Kick-off; Membership & Programming; Chapter Operations & Financial Management; and Community Service/Philanthropy & Bonus Assessment Modules Training. Five Star Chapter Excellence 2.2 will be facilitating Q & A sessions during the upcoming Mothers Regional Conferences.

TIMELINE SEPTEMBER 2021-FEBRUARY 2022

Participate in Monthly Five Star 2.2 Informational/support webinars.

(National and Regional Webinars)

FEBRUARY 15, 2022

Deadline for Financial Survey feedback

MARCH 15, 2022

Deadline for taking Financial Survey

MARCH 2022

Participate in Five Star 2.2 submission review webinar.

MARCH 25-APRIL 1, 2022

(OPTIONAL) Submit Draft of Five Star 2.2 document to your Regional Five Star Committee Chair – make adjustments based on feedback.

MAY 25-JUNE 1, 2022

Submit Five Star Final Documents.

JUNE 1, 2022 (Midnight)

Deadline for Final Submission.

2020-2022 FIVE STAR CHAPTER EXCELLENCE COMMITTEE

GAIL ASH DOTSON TURNER PAULAMAGNUS MAGNUS GAIL ASH DOTSON, CHAIR CRYSTAL CRYSTALJOHNSON JOHNSON TURNER PAULA SOUTHEASTERN REGION CENTRAL REGION EASTERN REGION SOUTHEASTERN REGION CENTRAL REGION EASTERN REGION Past Regional Director Past National Treasurer Past Regional Past Regional Director Past National Treasurer Past RegionalSecretary Secretary

CHAIR

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KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN NATIONAL PRESIDENT NATIONAL PRESIDENT NEB Liaison NEB Liaison

ANGELICA ANDERSON TASKER WANDA WANDA MONTGOMERY MONTGOMERY ALLISON COPELAND COPELAND ALLISON ANGELICA TASKER MID-WESTERN REGION SOUTH CENTRAL CENTRAL REGION MID-ATLANTIC REGION REGION MID-ATLANTIC MID-WESTERN REGION SOUTH REGION Past Regional Secretary Past Member at Large Past National Recording Past National Recording Past Regional Secretary Past Member-at-Large Secretary Corresponding Secretary Secretary

DENISE DENISEEATON EATONMAY MAY FAR WEST WEST REGION FAR REGION Past National Past National Corresponding Secretary

MAVIS JAMES MAVIS PARKMAN PARKMAN JAMES SOUTHEASTERN REGION SOUTHEASTERN REGION Past Treasurer PastNational National Treasurer

ON PURPOSE.

NATIONAL

P GOALS, TASKS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Created a document to make the distinction between ceremonies and celebrations and a template as a guidance for Founders Day Celebrations.

• Created a document for Virtual/Hybrid Ceremonies for chapters to utilize in this virtual world • Updated documents for all ceremonies in the Digital Cheetah – Protocol Central for easier access when chapters are conducting ceremonies • Collaborated with the National Membership Committee to facilitate a national webinar on February 18, 2021 entitled “INSTALLATIONS, INITIATIONS, INFORMATION: CONDUCTING YOUR VIRTUAL CEREMONIES” • Met with National President Kornisha and National Vice President Claudia to ensure the Guiding Principles are at the forefront of everything we do in Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and to ensure that all of our ceremonies, whether virtual, hybrid, or in-person, remain sacred and aligned with what is in the Member Manual.

• Created a document for Virtual/Hybrid Ceremonies to be used during Teen Conference and the Mother’s Regional Conferences • Created an insert for Virtual/Hybrid Ceremonies for the New Members Manual • Conducted Protocol Webinars in each of the Regions and for new chapters • Helped many chapters with their virtual inductions and installations and worked with National Executive Board Members, Regional Directors, Presidents, Vice Presidents and Protocol Chairs during this entire year answering questions and helping to facilitate all ceremonies

PAMELA MORRISTHORNTON CENTRAL REGION

CHAIR

ROBIN H. WILLIAMS EASTERN REGION

SHALONDA GLASS FAR WEST REGION

R O

T

O C O

L

COMMITTEE pro•to•col

/ 'prōdə kÔl, 'prōdə käl/ noun noun: protocol; plural noun: protocols

the accepted or established code of procedure or behavior in any group, organization, or situation.

OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES COMMIT TO:

AUDREY KEMP CURRY MID-ATLANTIC REGION

SERVING A HIGHER PURPOSE KEEPING CHILDREN FIRST BUILDING HARMONIOUS SISTERLY RELATIONSHIPS BEING KNOWLEDGEABLE BEING ACCOUNTABLE BEING KIND

KRISTINA MAYS MID-WESTERN REGION

TRACY SLAUGHTER HOLMES SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

COURTNEY WOODS SOUTHEASTERN REGION

SUMMER 2021 / 4

ON MISSION.

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ON PURPOSE.

STRATEGIC

PLANNING COMMITTEE

T

he National Strategic Planning Committee continues to valiantly and steadily work to protect and preserve the long-term value and sustainability of Jack and Jill. The Committee’s first priority is to Support the Implementation of the National Strategic Plan. Launched in 2018, the National Strategic Plan provides a roadmap for the future of Jack and Jill through six strategic priorities and their metrics for success. This program year, the Committee published the 2020 National Strategic Plan Progress Update that covered the advancement of Strategic Planning in Jack and Jill, highlights from the Inaugural 2019 Jack and Jill Census, and a strategic assessment of the impact of COVID-19 on Jack and Jill. Amidst the many challenges of this global pandemic, it was the Committee’s assessment that a number of inspiring silver linings emerged that demonstrate Jack and Jill’s ability to pivot in order to continue to fulfill its mission come what may. The Committee will continue to socialize the Strategic Plan throughout the organization and will continue to assess the relevance of the Strategic Plan during its tenure in consult with our National, Regional, and Chapter leaders.

The Committee’s second priority is to Partner and Advise on National Strategic Planning Matters. The National Sisterly Support Service initiative has started with alignment conversations with members of the NEB and will continue with meaningful connections and support to all National Committee and Task Force Chairs. Proactively, five National Leaders have already reached out to the Committee for strategic counsel and guidance, which was a pleasure to provide and resulted in important progress forward in key areas at the National level.

100 Jack and Jill Chapter Strategic Planning Chairs, a new effort to recruit, educate, and engage our new and continuing Chapter Strategic Planning Leaders is set to launch in Summer 2021. Leveraging chapter and regional input, the refresh of the Strategic Planning Toolkit is progressing well. The Committee was also excited to take part in providing strategic planning perspective during the New Chapter Orientation Series.

The Committee’s fourth priority is to Foster a Focus on Innovation Bridges to the Future. In the spirit of helping the organization think beyond what is current and present to what the future could hold, the Committee has founded an initiative to seek out bold, creative, far-reaching operational ideas that can be shared with the appropriate National Leader for consideration now and safe keeping for next to now. Stay tuned as the Committee formalizes the place and process for submission.

In National Strategic Planning Committee’s upcoming National Webinar, the 2020 National Strategic Plan Progress Update, the National Service Sisterly Support initiative, S.M.A.R.T Goal September, and more will be highlighted along with the current and future initiatives that the Committee has developed to help all Mother Members embody the Guiding Principle to Commit to Being Strategic.

The Committee’s third priority is to Activate Strategic Planning on All Organizational Levels and HQ. Engagement on a number of key issues that will impact the National organization is underway. To build on the exceptional service of the almost

Committee Members (Pictured L to R) Edrienne Brandon, Far West Region, National Chair; Jon Porter, Central Region; Kelly Reid, Eastern Region; Chris Carlisle, Mid-Atlantic Region; Ebony Gans, Mid-Western Region; Marilyn Jackson, South Central Region; Jesse Hood, Southeastern Region

SUMMER 2021 / 6

ON MISSION.

EMERGENCY RESPONDERS TASK FORCE

Don’t Wait. Activate!

This is the motto of the National Emergency Responders Task Force. We have been hard at work gathering information and preparing it in a concise manner so all of our members can know the appropriate steps to take in the event of an emergency. On April 23, 2021 a PDF was sent to the membership with the steps needed to prepare for all unexpected occurrences. There were also some valuable links embedded in the PDF. We are in the process of creating a branded Jack and Jill bug out bag (otherwise known as BOB)! This bag would be designed to be child friendly and we encourage members to use this bag to fill with the supplies necessary to survive outside of one’s home for at least 3 days. We would love for this to be a chapter wide activity where members pool resources and make sure that the bags are fully stocked!

We plan to partner with the American Red Cross to provide miniature first aid kits for the bags and our committee will provide a downloadable PDF to help the members know all of the items that a good BOB should have.

Our committee would like for these bags to be a fundraiser.

The funds raised from the purchase of this bag will be used to create an emergency fund to assist mother members who have been displaced by natural disasters such as hurricanes, or the recent freeze in Texas.

Speaking of Texas, if there is one thing that we as a committee have learned is that we love our moms! Members from all over the country donated to the South Central Region to help mothers who were displaced due to the freeze. It was a wonderful example of us coming together to support those in need and we would like to provide that kind of support to all members affected by natural disasters.

Thank you in advance for your support and participation in our upcoming fundraiser. We look forward to providing the membership with useful information to stay ready for whatever may come.

So remember Don’t Wait. Activate!

National Emergency Responder Task Force

Sophia Ford-Glanton, MD Chair Mid-Western Region Karla Montgomery, Central Region LaKreisha Montique Jean, Eastern Region Ryan Bathe Brown, Far West Region Sukeena Stephens, Mid-Atlantic Region Antoinette Patterson, South Central Region Desiree Robinson, Southeastern Region

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ON PURPOSE.

T

he 2020-2021 program year has been a true testament of the Power of Leveraging our Partnerships “To Make A Difference For All Children On Mission. On Purpose.”

National Strategic Partnerships Taskforce is incredibly happy to report a very successful and fruitful first year with the following accomplishments: INTERNAL ADMINISTRATION • Partnered with the NEB to ensure cohesive communications among our partners and the NEB, NSPTF, programming leadership as well as other committees such as the National Legislative Committee.

• Partnered with NP Kornisha, NPD Sherill and the rest of the NEB to refine current and/or finalize new MOUs. • Moved all partnerships under one “umbrella”.

• Identified three different types of JJOA partnerships.

• Fulfilled sponsorship benefits, to ensure JJOA delivers what it promised our partners.

• Supported InAugural Event and on the Hill through the creation of sponsorship opportunities and/or packages.

PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT • Met with every current partner at the beginning of the year to establish and maintain relationships.

• Hosted or supported webinars for: Morehouse, Inroads, Sonrise, Boks, American Heart Association and more!

• Leveraged our partners for JJOA programming such as DOVE and Sisters United Webinar; the AARP Voter Education Town Hall Featuring NCS Sativa Leach Bowen and NP Kornisha McGill Brown served as a panelist for the American Heart Association.

• Led a successful showcase of our swim grants for the American Red Cross. Chapter Presidents from the South Miami, Durham, Philadelphia, Suffolk, and East Suburban Atlanta Chapters represented us very well.

PARTNERS

MEMBER/FAMILY SUCCESS

NATIONAL

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS TASK FORCE

NEW PARTNERSHIPS • Established 8+ New partnerships.

• Launched a new partnership with CARES Mentoring Alliance, which is the nonprofit organization Susan Taylor started. NPD Shirell led the way for JJOA to partner with CARES with the following benefits: Group and/or individual-mentoring opportunities to include literacy tutoring, essay writing; CARES Affiliate board participation; Members may attend CARES Affiliate mentor-trainings, recruitment activities, launches and other events.

• Launched a new partnership with BOKS. We hosted a webinar to introduce the partnership. Boks hosted another webinar in which 120 JJOA mothers attended. NCC Margaret Cunningham and the curriculum committee is working on a Train the Trainer curriculum for our chapters.

• Launched a new partnership with the LPGA, which will provide opportunities for Jills and mothers to engage in the game of golf.

• Successfully established MOUs with Morehouse and Spelman. Mother Andrea Lewis was a HUGE help with these partnerships! Both institutions are hosting summer sessions for our teens. “Jack in the House” at Morehouse and “Jills take Spelman” at Spelman.

• Partnered with Inroads to provide opportunities for our teens to participate in the College LINKS program.

• Renewed our partnership with the Children’s Defense Fund by participating in several projects, including Chapters Beyond Books. Chapters are donating funds for books for distribution at the local level. We are also in the process of negotiating a strategic, long-term partnership.

• Launched a social media campaign with NAMI content for Mental Health Awareness Month and Our Health Matters newsletter.

• Solidified a formal agreement with Souper Bowl of Caring.

Special thank you to each of the Regional Chairs for ALL of their hard work!

VEDA SHAMSIDDEAN EASTERN REGION

JENEAN GLOVER

FAR WEST REGION

JASMINE SMITH MID-ATLANTIC REGION

CHAIR

KAREN HUNTER

MID-WESTERN REGION

DENISE DAVIS SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

ADRIA WELCHER SOUTHEASTERN REGION

SUMMER 2021 / 8

Save the Date!

JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC.

45 JULY 26-31, 2022 TH NATIONAL CONVENTION

NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

CLAUDIA N. CURTIS

EXECUTIVE BOARD LIAISON National Associates Committee National Membership Committee National Leadership Training & Development Task Force Small & Mighty Chapter Task Force

ON MISSION.

T

he purpose of the National Associate Committee is to identify areas of the organization (i.e. programming, fundraising) where the Associates can best support the organization; to coordinate the National Day of Service and provide ongoing communications to Associate Groups; to empower each Associate Group with knowledge of the program year’s expectations, activities, initiatives, and the national areas of focus; to encourage collaboration, fellowship, and unity so that all Associates have a consistent, rewarding experience in line with the organization’s goals.

The committee’s goals for the 2020-2022 term include the following: host a National Associates Webinar, revise the Associates Guide, reintroduce the Mothers Away from Home Program and plan the 2022 Associates Get Away.

The National Associates Webinar provided information on National Updates, Digital Cheetah, ways to stay connected as Associates, Regional Conferences overview, survey results for the National Associates Getaway and information about the Newly Designed Associate Pins.

The Associate Guide has been revised to provide both Active and Associate members with general information regarding Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Associate membership classification and Associate Group programs. With success and growth comes a need to effectively communicate enhanced Associate membership benefits, programs, and guidelines. The purpose of the 3rd Edition of the Associates Guide is to provide consistency and continuity for all aspects of the Associate Program of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

We are looking forward to completing a redesign of the Mothers Away from Home (MAFH) Program. MAFH is the national project of the Associates of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. The purpose of MAFH is to provide a network of contacts by which Jack and Jill college and boarding school students may be assisted in their transition and existence in their new environment. The MAFH program will be relaunched in Fall 2021.

While the pandemic forced us to revamp our local and regional programming, it also afforded us time to think through our strategy and plan for the upcoming year.

We’re looking forward to the second year of our term as we offer new programming for associates across our regions, plan a fantastic Associates getaway, and design a fun-filled agenda for all Jewels who will join us in Orlando for National Convention. Although we have tenured out of the organization, we remain on mission and on purpose, continuing to leverage our power to make a difference.

Committee Members (pictured from left)

Vickie Williams-Wiley, Southeastern Region, National Chair Elsie Jackson, Central Region Rose Richardson, Eastern Region Pamela Gray Payton, Far West Region Karen Washington, Mid-Atlantic Region Vynessa Alexander, Mid-Western Region L’Sheryl D. Hudson, South Central Region

ASSOCIATES GETAWAY

SAVE THE DATE

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

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PUERTO RICO

ON PURPOSE.

NATIONAL

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

T

he National Membership Committee’s primary responsibilities are to identify improvement strategies for the organization’s recruitment, retention, and intake strategies. Our committee’s goals for the 2020-2022 term include the following: • Review, revamp, and transform the New Member Intake Manual, the Member Manual, and the New Chapter Establishment Guide • Increase and enhance the resources available in the VP Toolkit • Continue the MOMentous Membership MOMents Recognition Program • Host webinars to assist chapters in improving and implementing their recruitment, retention, and intake strategies, with a specific focus on how to do so effectively in the virtual environment • Host webinars focused on sisterly relations and reinforcing our Guiding Principles; mental health and self-care • Serve as a source of support for chapter vice presidents • Collaborate with other committees and task forces, as needed, to ensure accurate and consistent information and guidance are provided to our members • Our committee has accomplished much this program year and has laid a strong foundation for the year to come.

Our accomplishments thus far include: • Updated New Member Intake Manual • Presented workshops at Fall Area Workdays • Hosted webinar for new members • Co-hosted, planned and developed run of show for the sisterly relations webinar -- The Power of Working Together: Building On Our Sisterhood • Hosted membership intake webinar -- Membership Intake: The Jack and Jill Way • Co-hosted and developed run of show for mental health and self-care webinar -- Mental and Emotional Wellness: Taking Care of ME • Co-hosted webinar with National Protocol Committee to provide needed guidance for ceremonies in the virtual environment -- Installations, Initiations, Information: Conducting Your Virtual Ceremonies

TONASHA SYLVESTER CENTRAL REGION

SHARON HOSKINS EASTERN REGION

NICOLE BALLARD FAR WEST REGION

• Hosted a succession planning webinar featuring our 23rd National President Tamara Turnley Robinson as our presenter – Who’s Got Next?

• Planned webinar with Our Health Matters Task Force and the SonRise Project -- From Pain to Purpose: Helping Our Children (and Ourselves) in the Wake of the Anniversary of the George Floyd Murder and the Twindemic • Updated and added numerous resources to the VP Toolkit • Held monthly meetings with chapter vice presidents to provide information, training, and support • Assisted in streamlining communications with National Headquarters Staff to improve efficiency of responses to chapter vice presidents and members • Recognized members for MOMentous Membership MOMents occurring between June 1 – December 31 • Collaborated with the Small and Mighty Chapters Task Force and the Growing Strategically Task Force to provide ongoing training and support for newly chartered chapters • Assisted National Technology Committee in rollout of Digital Cheetah Membership Information System • Shared proposals with National Policies and Procedures Committee to address governance issues impacting the membership experience • Reviewed and provided feedback on Proposed 20202022 National Policies and Procedures • Reviewed new chapter establishment process and drafted a revised New Chapter Establishment Guide • Conducted comprehensive review and transformative update of Member Manual

LAQUISHA PARKS MID-ATLANTIC REGION

SHERIDA PARSONS MID-WESTERN REGION

DEIDRA MURPHY SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

NICOLE LAWSON JENKINS SOUTHEASTERN REGION CHAIR

SUMMER 2021 / 12

ON MISSION.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE

F

ollowing the 43rd National Convention, the National Leadership Training and Development Task Force launched under the leadership of National Vice President Claudia Curtis. The composition of the task force includes: • Tatia D. Granger, Chair (Mid-Atlantic Region) • Jami Ervin, Co-Chair (Mid-Western Region) • Kelly Daniels (Central Region) • Zipporah Miller (Eastern Region) • Kim Britt (Far West Region) • Donna Wise Joseph (South Central Region) • Deeawn Roundtree (Southeastern Region) The Task Force met bi-weekly from December through April to address two specific directives, along with the flexibility to deliver and consider additional outputs based on the evolving work and discoveries of the group. First, the team was charged with developing a framework for a leadership development program supporting the training and development needs of Jack and Jill at the regional and national levels. This body of work directly aligns with the Organizational Excellence priority in Jack and Jill’s strategic plan for continuous member training and development.

The collective contributions, expertise and experience of the task force members led to a framework defining key competencies and skills critical to success as a Jack and Jill leader. This extensive body of work set the foundation for the Marion Stubbs Thomas National Leadership Academy, a year-long experience designed to equip our leaders with the tools necessary to serve successfully in regional and national leadership. In addition, the Task Force outlined plans for regional leaders to leverage in building leadership bench strength and guiding chapter leadership in strategic succession planning.

Kelly Daniels KELLY DANIELS

CENTRAL REGION Central Region

Zipporah Miller ZIPPORAH MILLER

EASTERN REGION Eastern Region

KIM BRITT FAR WEST REGION

Kim Britt

Far West Region

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Next, the Task Force was asked to build on the success of the VP Toolkit, leveraging it as a template for developing resources to support effective leadership transition at the chapter level. The goal was to design toolkits that would provide foundational information for key elected positions as well as ongoing learning. Members of the Task Force convened position-specific working groups with talented representatives from every region and compiled a curated set of resources specific to the identified roles. As of June 2021, toolkits are now available for Presidents, Vice Presidents, Financial Officers, Program Directors, Secretaries (Corresponding and Recording) and Editors. In alignment with the transition of officers, webinars were provided in June 2021 to help prepare new chapter officers for their roles.

All of the training webinars and supporting materials will be available on Digital Cheetah in summer 2021.

TATIA D. GRANGER MID-ATLANTIC REGION CHAIR (Chair)

Tatia Granger

Mid-Atlantic Region

JAMI ERVIN MID-WESTERN REGION CO-CHAIR

DONNA WISE JOSEPH

DEEAWN ROUNDTREE

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Deeawn SOUTHEASTERN REGION Donna Wise Joseph Roundtree

Jami Ervin (Co-Chair) Midwestern Region

South Central Region Southeastern Region

ON PURPOSE.

I

t has been my distinct pleasure to complete my first year as chair of the Small and Mighty (SaM) Chapter Taskforce.

The taskforce includes six additional dynamic mothers including Reisha Drumgold (MAR), Charys Williams (CR), DaVon Gorman (ER), Robin Dozier (FWR), Brandi Stephens (SCR), and Karlene Kiminyo (SER). We have appreciated the leadership and guidance of NVP Claudia Curtis in her role as our NEB Liaison.

GOALS The Taskforce expanded upon the work of the 2018-2020 committee to aid SaM chapters across the nation in their development. A primary goal this year has been to work directly with small chapters in each region to provide mentoring and targeted operational support; align resources to ensure high quality operations; offer tips for avoiding burnout; identify ways to work systemically with other small chapters to create networks and encourage stability; and assist chapters in achieving and maintaining quality growth.

We also prioritized cultivating a community for SaM chapters within each region. This has been a huge success through our use of varied communication platforms and individualized communication between taskforce representatives and the SaM chapter leaders in their regions.

and mighty chapters. There were over 150 mothers in attendance. The content focused on improving operational excellence in the areas of leadership, mentorship, and financial management. Attendees also had an opportunity to meet with their regional representative from the taskforce in a breakout room at the end of the session. This allowed for more intimate conversation around focused questions from mothers. Overall, it has been a fantastic first year for this taskforce group, and we are excited about our work ahead with SaM chapters in the 2021-2022 program year. I look forward to serving as your chair of this taskforce next year and working with this dynamic group of women. Together, we all are on mission, on purpose, making a difference in the lives of children.

TASKS In order to accomplish our goals this year, we used a fourpoint strategy: 1) identify; 2) develop; 3) provide; and 4) implement. In order to better understand the needs of SaM chapters, we conducted one-on-one conversations with SaM chapter presidents and vice presidents in each region.

In some regions, we also administered surveys to chapter presidents. This data gathering allowed us to determine thematic areas related to issues/challenges SaM chapters and at-risk chapters are currently facing. We were able to identify recommendations at the regional and national level, and these have been presented to all Regional Directors and shared with the National Executive Board.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS The Taskforce developed a template for Individualized Empowerment Plans (IEPs). Each taskforce representative completed an IEP, in consultation with the chapter president and vice president, for each SaM chapter in their region. These two-year plans target specific needs identified by chapter leaders and that require regional and or national support for remediation. Additionally, taskforce representatives attended monthly meetings held by their Regional Membership Chairs so that they could have regularized conversation time with SaM vice presidents to better understand chapter membership challenges.

The Taskforce also held its first national webinar focused on streamlining chapter operations, specifically for small SUMMER 2021 / 14

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NATIONAL TREASURER

NADINE J. GIBSON

EXECUTIVE BOARD LIAISON Budget & Finance Committee Growing Strategically Task Force Our Health Matters Task Force

ON MISSION.

N G STRATEGICALLY TASK FORCE GROWI

The Growing Strategically Task Force began meeting monthly in October 2020. In addition to Task Force members getting to know each other, our initial goal was to understand how each Region is structured to strategically look at growth. Although there are slight differences in structure, each Region’s Growth, Membership and Small & Mighty committees work collaboratively under the direction of the Regional Director.

REGIONAL TASK FORCE CHAIRS The Task Force has several objectives that it would like to achieve. Overall, the Task Force would like to create a sustainable growth model for Jack and Jill of America, Inc. which will encourage longevity. Longevity allows us to continue to expand our mission. A beginning step is to look at areas that have potential growth. The Task Force has adopted a data driven model to understand opportunities for growth in addition to evaluating current chapters for sustainability. Some Regions already have a template to follow in the form of a Strategic Growth Plan. These Regions will continue to reevaluate data as it becomes fresh in addition to looking at industry trends that impact populations. Some Regions are still at the beginning phases of developing a Strategic Growth Plan. As a Task Force we have spent time reviewing elements of a solid Strategic Growth Plan and will continue to support Regions develop and edit plans.

The Growing Strategically Task Force has also partnered with the National Membership Committee and Small & Mighty Chapter Task Force. Collaboratively we have started to review the New Chapter Establishment Guide in addition to beginning work on standardizing the training plan for interest groups and provisional chapters. This joint effort will continue in year 2.

Interest groups are beginning to be approved as a component of the chapter establishment process. Task Force members serve as a resource as these groups of mothers are preparing their packet submission to continue on in the process. The Task Force, in collaboration with the Membership Committee, will continue to support these groups as they move through the process of becoming a chapter.

Although there are no action shots of the Task Force’s work, you can see that its members have been super busy. We look forward to continuing our work in year 2. Pictured: National Treasurer Nadine Gibson (NEB Liaison), Dr. Jeniqua Duncan (Chair - Mid-Atlantic Region), Tamara Parker (Central Region), Johnda Scott Adams (Eastern Region), Adimika Arthur (Western Region), Dr. Tonya Coats (Mid-Western Region), Sharae Bassett Reed (South Central Region), Berneta Churchill (Southeastern Region)

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ON PURPOSE.

OUR

HEALTH

MATTERS TASK FORCE

T

his past program year we have continued to adjust to a “virtual world” amidst the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, while trying to maintain our mental and physical health. To help mothers navigate through these times, the National Our Health Matters Task Force, under the direction of our National Executive Board Liaison, National Treasurer Nadine J. Gibson, reported ready to serve! The goals of the Task Force were to work in concert with other programs and program chairs on health-related topics, educate our mother members on health issues impacting our community, empower our mothers, and look for additional partnerships. The Task Force also set a goal to be a resource to help mother members address Covid-19 both in their personal lives and in Jack and Jill through successful programming.

We hit the ground running and hosted a mental health webinar in November with our national partner, The Sonrise Project.

In keeping with our goal of education, the Task Force decided to create quarterly newsletters focused on various topics throughout the program year. We published our inaugural newsletter in November focused on Covid-19. In December 2020, we hosted a mental health webinar in partnership with the National Membership Committee focused on mental health tips for mothers, featuring one of our Task Force members as a panelist.

In the new year we shifted our focus back to Covid-19. In response to the vaccine emergency use authorizations, the Task Force published an FAQ in February 2021 aimed at educating and empowering our mothers when making decisions related to vaccination. February continued to be a pivotal month for the Task Force as we also focused on heart health. We relaunched our national partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA), hosted a panel

discussion on heart health with the AHA, promoted “Jack and Jill Goes Red”, published our second newsletter focused on all things “love”, and hosted a live heart-healthy cooking demonstration in partnership with the AHA. In March we recognized Colorectal Cancer Month by disseminating educational materials to our mothers In May, we recognized Mental Health Awareness month with the third publication of our newsletter focused on mental health. We rounded out May with a mental health webinar in partnership with the National Membership Committee and The Sonrise Project, focused on healing and transitioning from pain to purpose during the 1-year anniversary of the George Floyd murder.

Over the past year, the Task Force served Jack and Jill during a crucial time in our Nation’s social, mental, and physical health. As such, throughout the program year we have provided input to the National Executive Board on Covid-19 policies while continuing to focus on the mental and physical health of our mothers and our communities. It has been our pleasure to serve this past program year and we look forward to continuing to serve as we help educate and empower our mothers, on mission and on purpose.

We thank the National Executive Board for the opportunity to serve.

MARCH IS

COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH DID YOU KNOW....

• Colon cancer is the 3rd most-commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women combined.

• African Americans are at greater risk for colorectal cancer and have the highest incidence and mortality rates.

• The age of early onset (before age 50) for colorectal carcinoma is on the rise.

Qiana Amos, Far West Region, National Chair Nicole Howell, Central Region Kelly Bethea, Eastern Region Ruth Phillips, Mid-Atlantic Region Monica Monroe, Mid-Western Region Angela Wallace, South Central Region Chii Onyeagocha, Southeastern Region

leading cause of death in both men and women combined, in the

UNITED

STATE S

Colorectal death rates are

40%

higher for African Americans

RISK

FACTORS

IMPORTANT

Older age. Majority of people with colon cancer are older than 50.

African-American race.

A personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps. If you've already had colon cancer or noncancerous colon polyps, you have a greater risk of colon cancer in the future.

Inflammatory intestinal conditions. Chronic inflammatory diseases of the colon, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, can increase your risk of colon cancer.

Inherited syndromes that increase colon cancer risk. Only a small percentage of colon cancers are linked to inherited genes.

Family history of colon cancer. A family history is considered to be an immediate family member (parent, brother or sister) or multiple family members with colorectal cancer or polyps. If you have a family history, you may need to be screened at age 40, or 10 years before the youngest case in your immediate family, whichever is earlier.

Low-fiber, high-fat diet. Some studies have found an increased risk of colon cancer in people who eat diets high in red meat and processed meat.

A sedentary lifestyle. People who are inactive are more likely to develop colon cancer.

Diabetes and Obesity.

Smoking and Heavy Alcohol consumption.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Task Force Members

Colorectal cancer is the

SECOND

• A persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency or diameter of your stool • Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool • Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain • A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely • Weakness or fatigue • Unexplained weight loss

Contact your doctor or health care provider if these symptoms persist

EARLY DETECTION IS KEY

90%

Patients have a 90 percent five year survival rate when colorectal cancer is found at an early stage, but just 14 percent when cancer is found in advanced stage and has spread to distant organs.

All men and women without a family history of colorectal cancer should begin colorectal cancer screenings at age 45, according to the American Cancer Society.

SCREENING OPTIONS

• Colonoscopy • Stool DNA test: Cologuard® • Fecal immunochemical test (FIT test)

Lifestyle modifications can help decrease the risk of developing colorectal carcinoma: • Decreased alcohol consumption and smoking cessation.

• Increased vegetable and fruit intake and foods high in fiber.

• Decreased processed foods and regular exercise.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE OUR HEALTH MATTERS TASK FORCE JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED

SUMMER 2021 / 18

ON MISSION.

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NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR

SHIRELL A. GROSS

EXECUTIVE BOARD LIAISON National Programming Committee National Curriculum Committee (ad-hoc) We Are One Task Force

ON MISSION.

T

he National Program Committee (NPC), under the thoughtful leadership of NPD Shirell A. Gross, has stayed On Mission and On Purpose during the 2020-2021 program year by ensuring that substantive and enriching Programming was provided for all of our Jack and Jills. The NPC has collaborated and partnered with chapter Program Directors, Regional and National leadership to ensure alignment so that the Jack and Jill experience is consistently excellent.

The ongoing COVID pandemic restrictions required that all programming be held virtually and, as a result, the NPC took the opportunity to offer several programming initiative webinars with content applicable to each of our Programmatic Thrusts.

Among these initiatives were; Career Conversations, Bedtime Stories, Closing the Wealth Gap -- Financial Literacy, Share Ins & Share Outs and Curriculum Development. Additionally, there was an effort to streamline the requirements and submission process for the Program Handbook and Youth Service Recognition which will be realized in the next program year.

With the extended virtual timeline, opportunities presented themselves for us to feature prominent speakers in their respective fields. We were truly able to deliver an exceptional Jack and Jill experience this year. We had speakers such as; critically acclaimed author Producers David E. and Lynn Talbert of the movie and later the book Jingle Jangle , Opera Singer Julian Sykes celebrating Black History Month and Vanessa Williams reading and singing her book Bubbles and Kisses.

We have tapped into our own Jack and Jill moms and featured Sharon Epperson from CNBC discussing Financial Literacy, Actors Keith David and Dionne Lea our Secret readers, Sheinelle Jones our Special host at our Inaugural Home for the Holidays, and Sunny Hostin, who discussed her book and the importance of sharing our stories; which was a powerful experience for Mother Members.

We made it our priority to educate and inform chapters on the value proposition that excellent programming creates and we look forward to continuing this journey in the next program year.

2020-2022 PROGRAMMING COMMITTEE

Pictured L to R: Virna Alexander Rhodes (Chair), Eastern Region; LaShonna Harden, Central Region; Rebekah Archer, Far West Region; Rebecca Wheeler-Walston, Mid-Atlantic Region; Helen Kemp, Mid-Western Region; Michon King, South Central Region; Selika Sampson, Southeastern Region

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ON PURPOSE.

T

he purpose of the National Curriculum Committee is to identify and curate innovative curriculum to support programming at each grade level. Our goal is to create a market place of curriculum materials aligned to our Programmatic thrusts. Chapters are encouraged to use the curriculum market place as is or as a supplement to a planned age group or chapter activity. It is a resource intended to facilitate the delivery of “5 Star Experiences” to every child within Jack and Jill. The curriculum is flexible to be delivered by chapter members or supported by our national partners such as BOKS.

Our first phase is launching for the 2021-2022 program year and includes a New Global Awareness Curriculum in our Education Thrust designed to develop global awareness, acquire cultural intelligence and build cross-cultural competence in our young people.

In our Health Thrust you will find a functional fitness curriculum by BOKS that includes a leadership development component for our teens, and finally, Money Smart by the FDIC that is adding to our Financial Literacy resources.

We hope you will note two advancements. The curriculums layout a planned sequence of instruction by grade within the associated Thrust so when our teens graduate they would have developed key skills for the next part of their journey. Secondly, our curriculums provide for accommodations in collaboration with our We Are One Task Force.

Look for more curriculum to come including one focused on entrepreneurship. The curriculum marketplace is found in our Digital Cheetah Library.

Pictured L to R: Torii Ransome Freeman, Central Region; Mia Cunningham, Eastern Region (Chair); Mia N. Valentine, Mid-Atlantic Region; Rebecca Wheeler-Alston, Regional Program Chair and National Programming Committee Liaison, Mid-Atlantic Region; Teneka Singleton, MidWestern Region; Lashonda Reed Larry, South Central Region; Donna Baker, Southeastern Region SUMMER 2021 / 22

ON MISSION.

The We Are One National Task force for differently-abled children has enjoyed an exceptional year educating, implementing, and the initiation of integrating inclusive program accommodations for all Children.

Our Task Force Mothers along with the National Programming Committee, under the leadership of our National Program Director Shirell Gross, have worked closely to connect the initiatives across all regions. Some highlights of this program year includes educating, bringing awareness, and celebrating differences among our beautiful children and teens, and information was shared via regional and chapter e-Blasts, newsletters, virtual meetings and National Communications.

A high point of the year was a special edition of Bedtime Stories, featuring Associate mother Angela Ramos Fields reading her book “Will you be my Friend?” The story’s theme was Autism Awareness, Empathy and Anti-Bullying. This special program served to kick-off the We Are One National Task Force Empathy Training. The task force also partnered with the National Program Committee and hosted a We Are One National Webinar, which generated great enthusiasm from mothers, and chapters shared ideas for inclusive programming.

Our 2020-21 program year featured the full implementation of our Chapter Mother and Teen Champions, who pledge to work for integration and implementation of programming for children who are differently-abled. Our Teen Champions are “buddies” and in some cases, advocates who, along with Champion Mothers, are excited to exhibit and build on their leadership skills while helping to educate and support their differently-abled peers.

Going forward, the We Are One National Task Force encourages all chapters to incorporate the inclusive initiatives prior to the upcoming program year during: • • • • •

Chapter-wide planning retreats Programming Retreats Grade group activity planning Participate in Informational Webinars Highlight your We Are One successes in your chapters and regions

Thank you Jack and Jill of America, Inc. We look forward to another year of great inclusive program.

Associate mother Angela Ramos Fields, author of “Will you be my Friend?”

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We Are One Task Force

Cassandra Steele, Chair, Central Region Danielle Williams, Eastern Region Shayne’ Wright, Far West Region Eyanna Lessane, Mid-Atlantic Region Kelley Kellis, Mid-Western Region Kristal Daugherty, South Central Region Eren Page, Southeastern Region

NATIONAL RECORDING SECRETARY

ROBIN RICE HODGES

EXECUTIVE BOARD LIAISON National Nominating Committee National Technology Committee National Youth Trip Task Force

ON MISSION.

NATIONAL

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

T

he purpose of the National Nominating Committee is to oversee the nominations process and ensure that credentialed candidates meet the qualifications for office as outlined in our National Constitution and Bylaws, Policy and Procedures, and Campaign Guidelines for National and Regional Officers.

As your 2021-2022 National Nominating Committee, we were honored to serve each of our seven Regions as Regional Nominating Chair (RNC) at the 2020 first-ever Virtual Teen Leadership Conferences and again in the regional command centers for Teen Leadership and Mothers’ Regional Conferences in 2021. Because our organization has had a long-standing history of conducting the business of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. successfully each summer, we had a solid blueprint from which to transition to “virtual”.

COVID-19 threw us all a curveball, but with the support of our previous NEB Liaison Immediate Past National Recording Secretary Michelle Gentry Anderson, Immediate Past National Nominating Committee Chair Maria Aguilar and current NEB Liaison National Recording Secretary Robin Rice Hodges, your RNCs created adaptive, virtual guidelines and associated webinars to make the nominations process as closely aligned as possible to our in-person experience.

virtual presentation for the 2020 National Officer election.

In 2020-2021, the National Nominating Committee drafted the Election Process for 2021 Regional Elections to provide a more succinct and efficient checklist for regions to utilize for Regional Officer and Regional Nominating Committee elections. This resource covered everything from delegate and teller training to roles and responsibilities of other key in the nominations/elections process.

For the coming 2021-2022 program year, the National Nominating Committee is committed to creating a more consistency nominations and elections process throughout the organization. Over the years, the duties and expectations of the National Nominating Committee have steadily increased. It is our commitment to ensure that our beloved Jack and Jill member body has the tools to continue to nominate and elect the best and most qualified candidates that our membership has to offer in a process that is grounded in our core values that YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!

In 2019-2020, the National Nominating Committee created the Virtual Campaign Guidelines to provide a framework for candidates to adapt their campaign strategy to a completely

KATRINA LITTLE

CENTRAL REGION CHAIR

MAIDA L. PIGGEE EASTERN REGION

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JENNIFER BOOKER FAR WEST REGION

TAMIKA HENDERSON

MID-ATLANTIC REGION

JESSICA PRICE SMITH

MID-WESTERN REGION

AZIZA MIMS

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

GWENDOLYN EDMOND SOUTHEASTERN REGION

ON PURPOSE.

NATIONAL

TECHNOLOGY C O M M I T T E E

T

echnology and the use of Technology Tools has a profound effect on our everyday Jack and Jill lives. Within this program year, Technology was key to the evolution of the organization’s MIS Administration system and the ability to conduct the business of Jack and Jill in a virtual environment.

Over the past year, the committee’s priorities consisted of: • The piloting, implementing, training and servicing of the Digital Cheetah MIS platform • Partnered with members of the National Executive Board and Corporate Staff to implement and improve the functionality of Digital Cheetah • Provide technology leadership and support for each region during conferences, conventions and workshops.

• Served as technology host and support for numerous weekly national webinars

LORRAINE MUHAMMAD CENTRAL REGION CHAIR

CHANE GILLIAM EASTERN REGION

TAMMY HINKLE FAR WEST REGION

ELAN TAYLOR MID-ATLANTIC REGION

CORE

STEPHANIE HOBSON MID-WESTERN REGION

AMBER SLAUGHTER SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

LESLIE THOMAS SOUTHEASTERN REGION

IMPLEMENTATION TEAM

PICTURED FROM LEFT: NRS ROBIN RICE HODGES, NE FLORENCE LANKFORD, CHAIR LORRAINE MUHAMMAD, MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR NATASHA JOHNSTONE, SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER KRISTJEN RENARD

KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS December 2020: Implemented Digital Cheetah; hosted National Webinar for all members and MIS Administrators February 2021: Implemented the Digital Cheetah mobile application March 2021: Hosted a Digital Cheetah Webinar for MIS Administrators March – April 2021: Provided technical leadership for regional Clusters and Area Workdays May 2021: Hosted a Digital Cheetah National Webinar featuring new platform functionality

SUMMER 2021 / 26

A LEGACY OF PROSPERITY, A FUTURE OF POSSIBILITY Oklahoma Trailblazer Tour

Youth Trip NATIONAL

BLACK WALL STREET Tulsa, Oklahoma

ON MONDAY, MAY 24, 2021, The National Youth Trip Task Force met for the first time since March of 2020. As you know, The Oklahoma Trailblazer Tour initial planning started in 2018 and was set to take place May 2020, but was cancelled due to the Covid Pandemic. I’m soooo excited to announce that we’re back and gearing up to plan, coordinate and roll out an awesome, historical and fun weekend for our Jack and Jill Families!!

PURPOSE OF THE COMMITTEE • EDUCATE the next generation of African-American leaders about their rich history providing much needed context for our children.

• RAISE AWARENESS of some of the societal similarities between then and now and the power, influence and responsibility of young people in leading social change.

The Task Force consists of 6 mothers (4 returning committee members, 2 new members) and NRS Robin Rice Hodges serves as the NEB Liaison and has already graciously stepped

27 / EXECUCOM

in to support! Here’s what we discussed during our Zoom Conference: • NRS Robin provided a recap of the NYT that was originally planned and then unveiled what the trip could potentially look like in 2022. The discussion was engaging and the committee provided lots of feedback and suggestions, especially safety with the pandemic. The committee discussed best practices and how to take the NYT to another level.

• Suggested Activities for the NYT include: · Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Inaugural Rodeo · A Night at the Theater – a renowned local production company will present a play that provides a reach history of Greenwood, Black Wall Street, the Tulsa Massacre, and the “rebirth” of Greenwood. · Children’s Bedtime Stories read by awardwinning author Hannibal B. Johnson (Black Wall Street: From Riot to Renaissance in Tulsa’s

· · · · ·

Historic Greenwood District, Up From the Ashes, and Acres of Aspiration: The All Black Towns of Oklahoma).

Bus tours of All-Black Towns featuring local historians that will share Oklahoma’s rich history during our journey.

Tour of the Greenwood Cultural John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park.

The New Museum Iced Out Western Teen Party

AND SOOO MUCH MORE…….STAY TUNED!

SAVE THE DATE APRIL 29-MAY 1, 2022

NATIONAL YOUTH TRIP TASK FORCE Pictured L to R: Chair Ida Roundtree, Central Region; Jackie Santiago, Eastern Region; Khalisha Jefferson, Far West Region; Jennifer Goines, Mid-Atlantic Region; Brandi Merritt, Mid-Western Region; Celeste Porter, South Central Region; Lisa Bacote, Southeastern Region

SUMMER 2021 / 28

ON MISSION.

29 / EXECUCOM

NATIONAL CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

SATIVA LEACH-BOWEN

EXECUTIVE BOARD LIAISON National Bylaws Committee National Fathers’ Auxiliary National Legislative Committee National Policies and Procedures Committee National Governance Oversight Task Force

ON MISSION.

NATIONAL

BYLAWS COMMITTEE

2020 PROGRAM YEAR GOALS 1 Ensure that every Chapter has and submits a set of Chapter Bylaws to the Region as required under the National Constitution and Bylaws.

2 Review and provide feedback to each chapter in ways to improve their chapter governance and highlighting and problematic provisions or governance gaps.

3 Provide guidance to members of each Region on bylaws related matters.

4 Update the Chapter Bylaws Template to assist chapters with creating, revising and enhancing their local governing documents.

5 Develop a Chapter Bylaws rubric and regional governance awards to encourage chapters to improve their governance and make the recommended changes.

6 Identify and document recurring questions and develop FAQs 7 Promote consistency and adherence to our Governing Documents.

8 Host regional/national educational And training webinars.

2020 PROGRAM YEAR PROGRESS REPORT

OCTOBER 2020: Information regarding the updates to the NCB along with other information was rolled out at regional Area Work Days. The Chapters were asked to submit a copy of their Chapter’s Bylaws no later than 12/01/2020 along with a Chapter Bylaws Checklist (of the 2020 National Bylaw Amendments) and a Chapter Bylaws Assessment (a list of essential items that should be included in any Chapter’s Bylaws) DECEMBER 2020: the NBC along with the other governance officers hosted an educational national webinar that gave an overview of the critical changes made to our governance.

JANUARY 2021: The RBCs met to discuss the status of the review process and the next steps – creation of the Chapter Bylaws rubric and regional governance awards to provide more detailed guidance to each Region that wished to participate.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021: The RBCs submitted the results of their review of their assigned Chapter’s bylaws and the first round of Chapter Reviews were disseminated. This review confirmed that the 2020 National Bylaws Amendments were added to each Chapter’s Bylaws. Any deficiencies were requested to be corrected.

APRIL 2021: Various regions hosted governance training with the Chapter officers.

JUNE 2021: The RBCs met to discuss the plan for governance presentation at the Regional Mothers’ Conferences.

31 / EXECUCOM

ON PURPOSE.

NATIONAL FATHERS’

AUXILIARY

Y

our Fabulous Father’s Auxiliary Committees across the nation have stood in the gap, provide support, and remained the providers and protectors for our families, homes, and communities over this tumultuous year. We are thankful for the opportunity to support this organization and are appreciative of your acknowledgement of our impact.

The role of the dads at all levels is to help the mothers make Jack and Jill a family organization. The primary effort is at the local chapter level. Without the dads participating at the chapter level, the Fathers’ Auxiliary will not be as effective.

To get the fathers involved, it is a necessary for Mothers to encourage the fathers to participate in planned activities.

Without encouragement and cooperation, it will be almost impossible for the fathers to start an auxiliary. We feel strongly that the father’s auxiliary is an ideal way for Dads to: • To be engaged with their children and other children in the chapter.

• To support Mothers in their endeavors to educate and teach our children our culture, civic responsibilities, and the importance of obtaining an education.

• To serve as role models for all our children, being involved in their lives as they transform from kids to youth to adults.

• To offer the support and encouragement from the dads which thereby, compliments the mission of Jack and Jill.

• To assist the mothers of Jack and Jill develop excellent programming for our children, involvement from the fathers only makes it better.

We kicked off the year providing information and insight at the Area Workdays and Regional Clusters held virtually across the nation. We introduced and outlined our Legislative aims of participating civic and community policing initiatives that change the narrative of how they see us. We ushered fathers from our newly installed chapters across the nation with a virtual ceremony in April and led the first ever all Father’s National Bedtime stories in May. We are looking forward to meeting again in person within each chapter to continue this work and we are encouraging all our dads to join us in Orlando in the summer of 2022 for the National Convention-we are planning a dynamic agenda with you in mind.

SUMMER 2021 / 32

ON MISSION.

NATIONAL

LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

T

he 2020-21 JJOA Program Year heralded a number of historic legislative and social developments and JJOA’s National Legislative Committee (NLC) began the year with an ambitious and exciting agenda to keep Jack & Jillers meaningfully engaged in the legislative imperatives. The NLC set out supporting and encouraging programming around the robust national Legislative Aims and Thrusts which include: The Crown Act, Every Student Succeeds Act, Gun Violence and Prevention & Community Safety Act, Community Policing and Care for the Aging. Through its regional legislative chairs, the NLC advised and encouraged chapters to adopt rich legislative programming in accordance with the JJOA legislative agenda. Leading by example, several regional chairs organized exceptional events such as voter education and awareness rallies, social justice town halls, and community forums in their respective regions.

With the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election in full swing as the Program Year began, the NLC worked with JJOA national partner When We All Vote to amplify the get out the vote and voter education messages to all of its members, especially the many first-time Jack & Jill voters. Recognizing the historic nature of the Biden-Harris ticket, with Vice President Kamala Harris

becoming the first African-American and Female Vice President in United States history, the Committee quickly organized an all-star, impactful, and sparkling national event to mark the moment of the Inauguration with A Pink and Blue Inaugural Affair. Speakers and luminaries included; newly elected GA Senator Raphael Warnock, Senator Cory Booker, Congresswomen Sheila Jackson Lee and Maxine Waters as well as DC, Houston, and Atlanta Mayors Muriel Bowser, Sylvester Turner and Keisha Lance Bottoms, as well as the first female and African-American Illinois Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. A featured performance by Grammy Award winner Yolanda Adams topped off the night and we were thrilled to have over 1600 attendees participate in the virtual event. JJOA 33 / EXECUCOM

families/members from across the country donned custom-made MOMALA T-shirts and Inaugural Affair swag to bring in the historic Biden-Harris administration virtually together.

The efforts of the NLC were not all celebratory however, as 2020-21 also saw nationwide social unrest and protests erupt in the streets. Police violence against the Black community took center stage with the trial and conviction of the police officer charged with murdering George Floyd. When proposed federal legislation, The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, designed to address systemic issues of police violence stalled in the Senate, the Committee quickly implemented a JJOA Call to Action and National letter writing campaign to support the passage of the bill. Each of the 7 regions engaged in a letter writing contest to make certain that legislators hear from JJOA families every day until the bill is passed and becomes law. The region writing the most letters will receive special recognition during OTH. Finally, the NLC has been consumed with planning and executing on what promises to be a landmark 2021 On the Hill Legislative Summit. As we begin to emerge from some COVID restrictions, we will continue the rich tradition of introducing our teens to the intricacies and importance of advocacy in the United States Congress. On the Hill 2021 Re-Imagined will be held on September 9-12 in Washington, DC as an in-person and virtual event – Themed: Equity, Justice, Hope, Change...ACT Now! It is slated to be a legislative summit like no other in recent JJOA history with a focus on social justice reform and voting rights.

With ever-evolving safety protocols in mind, the Committee has

ON PURPOSE. planned for teens to safely experience a bevy of in-person legislative meetings, issue advocacy training, Q&A sessions with civil rights and major thought leaders, a vibrant rally at Black Lives Matter Plaza, a rap concert and a buoyant praise and worship service, to close out an action packed and issue-oriented weekend. Because the NLC was firmly committed to leaving no teen out of the experience, there will also be specially designed virtual program elements to run concurrently with the in-person experience.

Clearly 2021 is off to a great legislative start and we are only looking to go higher from here. Stay tuned!

2021 OTH HIGHLIGHTS This year’s On The Hill Legislative Summit event will be a hybrid in-person and virtual event for our teens to advocate for Jack and Jill’s national legislative agenda in the areas of equity in education and health, voting rights, and policing reform. The Summit’s theme is Equity, Justice, Hope, Change...ACT Now! Among the events planned are: interactive town halls, advocacy training workshops, a Social Justice Teen Rally at Black Lives Matter Plaza, and a Legislative Awards Reception recognizing members of Congress and others for their leadership and action on key legislative issues.

The Virtual portion of our On the Hill Legislative Summit includes the following highlights: Thursday, September 9, 2021: • Voter Registration Drive/Virtual College Tours • Teen Rally Poster TikTok Creative Workshop Friday, September 10, 2021: • Voter Registration Drive • Equity In Education Breakfast & OTH Advocacy Briefing with Soapbox Consulting • Congressional Meetings • Social Justice Legislative Awards Reception & Rap Concert on the Plaza at The Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center (Live Stream)

Saturday, September 11, 2021: • OTH Advocacy Training (Pre-Recorded) • “More Justice, More Peace” Town Hall Meeting (Live Stream) • Social Justice Teen Rally (Policing Reform & Voting Rights ACT Now!) (Live Stream) • Pitch U Digital Competition & Awards Sunday, September 12, 2021: • Hope & Change Prayer Breakfast & Gospel Concert (Live Stream) • OTH Chapter Legislative Awards (Live Stream)

SUMMER 2021 / 34

ON MISSION.

NATIONAL

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES COMMITTEE

P

olicies and procedures (P&Ps) are an essential part of any organization. They provide a roadmap for our dayto-day operations. P&Ps ensure compliance with our bylaws, give guidance for decision-making, and streamline internal processes. A policy is a guiding principle used to set direction in an organization. A procedure is a series of steps to be followed as a consistent and repetitive approach to accomplish a result. Policies and Procedures drive operational excellence, consistency, and accountability at the national, regional, and chapter levels. If Bylaws are the “What”, then P&Ps are “the HOW”.

The 2020 – 2022 National Policies and Procedures Committee has been deeply dedicated to continue the great work done by our predecessors. We have not only incorporated the approved bylaw amendments and into the latest P&Ps, but we have also taken a deeper dive into the entire governing document in order to provide the additional clarity, detail and context required to run our Jack and Jill operations more effectively and with excellence.

This year the NPPC has taken on several tasks. We created version 1 and version 2 of the National Teen Auxiliary

NATAKI BROWN JONES CENTRAL REGION

MYLYN SMITH EASTERN REGION

TAMARA PINCKNEY MID-WESTERN REGION

35 / EXECUCOM

Guidelines, revamped the National P&Ps, and compared the Regional P&Ps. Further, we have been a resource for governance questions for the regions, assisted chapters with creating their own chapter P&Ps, hosted a national webinar as well as regional webinars, and provided interpretations when governance questions arose at the chapter, regional, and national level. In addition, we worked hand in hand with the National Bylaws Committee as well as the National Governance Taskforce. Finally, we also began our journey of reviewing additional JJOA guides to ensure compliance first and foremost to our overarching governance documents such as our charter, constitution, and bylaws. This program year, we successfully reviewed and gave feedback on the Associates Guide and the New Chapter Establishment Guide.

We meet on a weekly basis to conduct the great work of Jack and Jill. We are honored to serve and humbled and ready to continue this great work for the benefit of our great organization in order to ensure the betterment of our children.

TRACY MACK-ASKEW FAR WEST REGION CHAIR

RHONDA GOODE-DOUGLAS SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

KIMBERLY COPE MCCRARY MID-ATLANTIC REGION

AMERYLLIS PETWAY SOUTHEASTERN REGION

ON PURPOSE.

NATIONAL

GOVERNANCE TASK FORCE

Building the Baseline for Informed Members!

T

his task force was created to establish a foundation for a more comprehensive approach to coordinating the review, drafting, analyzing and application of our various governing documents, and to educate our members and governance leaders at the Regional and Chapter levels.

This group was developed to bridge the gaps, create continuity and leverage past strength or opportunity areas to strengthen our organizational knowledge and execution of governance matters.

How will we accomplish our goals? As a committee and with your assistance we are: • Assisting with the transition and updating of our governing documents from one biennial term to the next; • Providing support and advice to the various governance teams on improving and aligning our overall approach to governance as an organization; • Ensuring that the history of previous governancerelated rulings, concerns and issues are documented for future reference and use to support the consistency in application of our governance nationwide; • Facilitating cross-communication and coordination between the governance teams (Bylaws, Policies/ Procedures, and Parliamentary) for optimal governance support to the membership; • Hosting a National Governance Retreat with the National Bylaws Committee, the National Policies & Procedures Committee and the National Parliamentarian for crosstraining and to discuss national governance issues; and

• Hosting a National Governance Forum/Summit to provide governance/leadership training to our Regional leaders and Chapter Presidents/Parliamentarians/ Bylaws Chairs.

Our Deliverables for this body of work are: 1. A Governance survey (Completed and Results Published in May) 2. A governance ruling repository (In Progress) 3. A National Governance Retreat/Forum/Leadership Summit (Tentative Fall 2021) 4. Produce electronic versions of the National Constitution and Bylaws (NC&B) and National Policies and Procedures (NP&P) with cross-references between them; and propose a revision to the NC&Bs (Tentative Spring 2022) To create the committee, we sought out past chapter, regional and national leaders/members who have had a unique role in developing and executing governance related tasks, policies, guidelines, and bylaws in their previous roles. Meet the dynamic members serving for this great body of work and feel free to reach out to your region’s representative for any input or insight!

Good Governance Goes a Long Way – Take this Journey with Us!

Pictured L to R: Hon. Zina Cruse, Central Region; Sharon Hoskins, Eastern Region; Vara Allen-Jones, Far West Region; Kim Gatling, Seqwana Pryor, Mid-Western Region; Chair Tonya Tarpeh, South Central Region; Mavis James, Southeastern Region

Mid-Atlantic Region;

SUMMER 2021 / 36

Sisterhood is to be together,

feel together, heal together and rise together.

37 / EXECUCOM

NATIONAL EDITOR

FLORENCE LANKFORD

EXECUTIVE BOARD LIAISON National Public Relations Committee National Teen Board National Historical Task Force

ON MISSION.

NATIONAL

PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE

T

he National Public Relations Committee worked diligently this past year to ensure chapters used the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. logo correctly.

The NPRC spoke to regional editors and presidents in their region about the importance of not altering the Jack and Jill logo in any way. Each member of the NPRC also reviewed all the chapter logos in their region. We found that many chapters were either using the old logo or had altered the logo in some way. A letter was sent to those chapters urging them to fix their logo and use the Jack and Jill logo correctly. It is imperative that all chapters and mother members use the Jack and Jill logo correctly and without altering it to protect our brand.

The NPRC also worked on increasing the engagement of mothers on social media. Members created content for the Jack and Jill Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages. We worked on making the post personable by including pictures of the National Executive Board as well as mother members. We worked on increasing engagement by asking mother members to comment on the post. The NPRC also created Facebook frames for the JJ Goes Red initiative in February and for Autism Awareness month in March. They were both well received by our mothers as many changed their frames to support the initiatives.

The NPRC also worked with the NEB to craft messaging surrounding pivotal events in America including the insurrection of our Nation’s Capitol and the George Floyd verdict. The NPRC also assisted with writing the Mother’s Day tribute video.

In the coming year, the NPRC’s goal is to continue to work on logo consistency and social media engagement as well as update the Public Relations Handbook.

Committee Members

Darrielle Snipes, Mid-Western Region, National Chair Simone Ross, Central Region Andrea Ferguson Peterson, Eastern Region Roslyn Patterson, Far West Region Kimberlei Davis, Mid-Atlantic Region Alice Dungey, South Central Region Tomyka Chaney, Southeastern Region 39 / EXECUCOM

ON PURPOSE.

Thank You!

TO OUR OUTGOING

NATIONAL TEEN BOARD

Pictured from Left: Xavier Davis, Central Region; Jocelynn Dow, Eastern Region; Kyla Coaxum, Far West Region; Ari Gibson, Mid-Atlantic Region; Richard Chandler, Mid-Western Region; Sasha Wilson, South Central Region; Barbara Joy “BJ” Tillman, Southeastern Region

Congratulations

TO THE NEWLY-ELECTED

NATIONAL TEEN BOARD

AMELIA ANDERSON CENTRAL REGION

ANDREA ROSE OATES EASTERN REGION

ASATA YOUNG

MID-WESTERN REGION

BRADLEY ADAMS

FAR WEST REGION

JAI’ CHEWE

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

JONATHAN WARD

MID-ATLANTIC REGION

JEREMIAH LOWTHER

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

SUMMER 2021 / 40

ON MISSION.

NATIONAL

HISTORICAL TASK FORCE

T

he National Historical Task Force is charged with the preservation of our history for future generations. We are committed to finding, collecting, documenting, and preserving evidence of Jack and Jill of America’s Inc. rich history.

COMMITTEE GOALS Each National Regional Task Force Member will meet with chapter historians to share out information from the task force. Establish a Historian Tool Kit for chapters and the Historians to collect and preserve their chapter/regions history. Establish a shared drive for each region with access given to every member of the task force. Communicate with the founders’ family members to acquire additional items and insight/ history about the founding mothers.

2022 National Convention will display the national quilt project from each region.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS We have begun the search for Legends and Legacies to interview and display at the 2022 National Convention. Use Digital Cheetah to find gems.

Find gaps in historical policies and procedures, and work to create and streamline a system for checking in our historical items. Onboard Chapter Historian prior to the upcoming programming year. Use regional drives to store interviews and history. Create a letter for the regional secretaries to send out about the challenges. Prizes/Rewards and National Recognition for a regional scrapbook.

In the future, we hope to host a National Historical Task Force Webinar for the national body. We are excited about our long-term goal as well as our short-term goals. We have had an amazing time planning, and we look forward to helping the national body uncover more of our rich history!

NATIONAL HISTORICAL TASK FORCE MEMBERS Florence Lankford, National Editor; Ann Caggins, National Historian; Carol Bolden Stone-El, National Archivist; Michelle Muckelroy, Chair, South Central Region; Dr. Shawni Jackson-Triggs, Central Region; Karen St. Vil, Eastern Region; Toya Davis, Far West Region; Dr. Tamara Charity-Brown, Mid-Atlantic Region; Aimee Cole-Laramore, Mid-Western Region; Dr. BJ Kimbrough, Southestern Region

National Historical Task Force Committee

National Editor Florence Lankford

Karen St. Vil Eastern Region

National Historian Ann Caggins

Dr. BJ Kimbrough Southeastern Region

41 / EXECUCOM

National Archivist Carol Bolden Stone-El

Dr. Shawni Jackson-Triggs Central Region

NHTF Chair Michelle Muckelroy

Toya Davis Far West Region

Aimee Cole-Laramore Mid-Western Region

Dr. Tamara Charity-Brown Mid-Atlantic Region

ON PURPOSE.

CONGRATULATIONS

TO OUR NEWLY-ELECTED REGIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARDS!

CENTRAL REGION

EASTERN REGION

Sandra McKinney Regional Treasurer

Melissa Desravines Regional Treasurer

Torii Ransome Freeman Regional Secretary

Ily Houston Regional Secretary

Shanté Turner Regional Member-At-Large

Alexis James Steals Regional Member-At-Large

FAR WEST REGION

MID-ATLANTIC REGION

Janece Richard Regional Treasurer

Daralyn Bryant Regional Treasurer

Amanda McWilliams Regional Secretary

Tomisha Gladman Regional Secretary

JoAnne Curry Regional Member-At-Large

Tiffany Spann-Wilder Regional Member-At-Large

MID-WESTERN REGION

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

Deidre Lindsey Regional Treasurer

LaKenya Collins Regional Treasurer

Cynthia Miree-Coppin Regional Secretary

Vanessa LaFleur Regional Secretary

Jami Ervin Regional Member-At-Large

Deidra Murphy Regional Member-At-Large

Suzanne Ornelas Regional Director

Tasha Penny Regional Director

Tanya Watson Regional Director

Melinda Alexis-Hayes Regional Director

Tarcia Flemming Regional Director

Danielle Wesley Regional Director

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

Darlene McGhee Whittington Regional Director Florence Holland Regional Treasurer Sharon January Regional Secretary Takeysha Lewis Regional Member-At-Large

SUMMER 2021 / 42

CONNECT WITH US Visit Jack and Jill’s social media sites at: Instagram @jackandjillinc Facebook @jackandjillinc Twitter @jackandjillinc LinkedIn @ /company/jack-and-jill-of-america-incorporated Please use #jackandjillinc to share your successes, wins, and Jack and Jill Family Pride!

TO CONTACT JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA,INC:

Email: admin@jack-and-jill.org Call: 1-202-667-7010 Write: Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated 1930 17th Street, Northwest, Washington, DC 20009 Web: http://jackandjillinc.org