Scope 2016

Inside this edition of Scope 2 introduction letters

The National President, National Program Director, National HQ, and Foundation welcome you to Scope

6 meet the national program committee 7 jack and jill national teen board Seeks to change the narrative on black youth

9 2015 jack and jill on the hill summit

Highlights from the 2015 On the Hill Legislative Summit

13 jack and jill focuses on literacy

A child who can read can learn to do anything, go anywhere, be anyone!

30 2015 regional highlights

Highlights from our seven regions 44 the power to make a difference

The National Programming Thrust 47 2015 Chapter programming

Highlighting our chapters’ programming excellence

167 update from the jack and jill of america foundation

Jack and Jill’s philanthropic arm

171 jack and jill members-at-large 178 awards

Superior Chapter Program Handbook Awards, Youth Volunteer Service Awards, and the Jacqueline Moore Bowles Teen Leadership Awards

21 associates in action

Jack and Jill Associates’ 2nd Annual Getaway Weekend

24 the Thompson Quintuplets The Final Report

26 jack and jill national partners

Partners who support our mission

29 mental health awareness

Expanding Jack and Jill’s health initiatives

190 national executive board

executive memo from National President tammy king

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elcome to SCOPE, our annual publication highlighting our extraordinary programs that embody our theme of the “Power to Make a Difference”. For over 7 decades, SCOPE has told the stories of our work in the communities we serve while staying true to our mission of nurturing future African-American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.

As your 24th National President, my vision has been to build on our position as the premier African-American family organization in the country by empowering all of our members to work towards the goals we set for ourselves, our children and our communities. The 2016 edition of SCOPE is a wonderful example of what we do to touch the lives of others as we raise our children to become leaders with compassion and with a true understanding of living a life of purpose.

I am thrilled to read about the work of so many of our chapters who guide our teens toward adulthood helping them attain leadership skills as they transition on to college and beyond. I am proud that we have focused on literacy for our youngest members, using our digital know-how to bring families together for story time and I continue to be excited about our support for organizations like the March of Dimes who are poised to do the important work of protecting mothers and their babies.

We truly live our theme!

Of course, we would be hard pressed to do much without the incredible talents of a phenomenal National Program Committee led by National Program Director Gladys Henderson. These committed mothers not only strengthen the efforts of

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our chapters with innovative programs, but they keep us honest ensuring that we all do the work we are called to do.

Of course, it is at the local or chapter level where the hard work is done and I can’t thank the Chapter Program Directors enough for all that they do to plan, execute and lead; a heartfelt thank you to you all!

On a personal note, it has been truly an honor to serve as your 24th National President. Throughout my tenure, I have been fortunate to meet so many members passionate about our work. I am so proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish together and I look forward to an even stronger Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated in the coming years.

Thank you for your support and as you read this edition of Scope, I hope that you join me in celebrating us! Know that the impact you have in your community continues the rich legacy of our iconic organization and its founders and believe that your efforts contribute to the improvement of those in need.

God Bless Jack and Jill.

expressions from

National Program Director gladys m. henderson

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’m excited to welcome you to the 2016 edition of SCOPE! This publication is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the best of Jack and Jill programming, and the dynamic work of chapters who are changing lives in the communities they serve.

While our SCOPE is endless we can only highlight a fraction of all the magnificent work of our chapters.

However, our gratitude extends to every Mother, Father, Child and Associate who has contributed to our shared success! It is truly powerful to understand the magnitude of our efforts collectively through excellent programming - the thread that links our efforts, unites us collaboratively and solidifies the impact of our organization. I’ve observed a few themes at the root of this change in my two-terms as your National Program Director, they are: Family, Service, and Excellence. In every way we have fueled our “Power to Make a Difference” with a continuous focus on strengthening our families, supporting others and doing it all with excellence. Aristotle once said, “Excellence is never an accident; it is the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities.” This sentiment embodies the spirit of our work and service. We should all proudly celebrate the difference our efforts make!

Many thanks go to our National President Tammy King for her outstanding leadership and to the National Executive Board for their dedication! I owe a debt of gratitude to our committed Regional Programming Chairs, (Regina Edmondson/Central, Nikki Farrior/ Eastern, Ninevah Lowery/Far West, Helen Griffith/ Mid-Atlantic, Celeste Adams/Mid Western, Melissa Johnson/South Central, and Latrecia Jordan/ Southeastern). They are part of the fuel behind my

fire. Under their direction chapters have broadened the scope of issues we are tackling. Their commitment to programming has increased civic awareness and literacy, broadened leadership development, and brought about meaningful change in some of our communities most pressing problems. Our Jacks and Jills (along with their supporting casts) have worked hard to lead, in the process of becoming change agents and developing leadership skills that will last a lifetime.

As parents, we are often faced with difficult decisions designed to train our children up to become productive members of society. While individually, many of us accomplish that with ease, collectively we make such a greater impact on the lives of our children and the communities we serve. It has been such a fulfilling experience to lead the charge in developing programming to accomplish this mission.

It’s hard to believe this is my last term. I have to thank the Sensational South Central Region, and my Clear Lake/Bay Area chapter for their unwavering support and partnership. Sincerest gratitude goes to my family, who granted me an abundance of grace, and allowed me to fully commit to this role for four years. Much appreciation goes to Executive Director Dy Brown and especially Special Projects Coordinator Kristjen Renard for once again delivering a beautiful historical record of our great work. And lastly, I offer thanks to the many Jack and Jill families across the nation that make our organization spectacular every day!

Let’s live, let’s work, let’s play together!

SCOPE 2016

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a message from National Headquarters dy brown executive director

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s we started reviewing chapter submissions a little over six weeks ago, our HQ team was immediately reminded what an honor it is to work for an organization whose members are dedicated and energized to make a difference! Please peruse the pages of our 2016 SCOPE publication to celebrate our programmatic thrusts at a local, regional, and national level. This is truly only a fraction of the great work that is happening across the nation. This program year I’ve been fortunate to meet so many mothers, children and alumni at various events. I treasure these moments because I am able to place faces with names from your phone calls, emails, social media and traditional news media. Over the last two years, this administration has shown that collectively we have the Power to Make a Difference through our programming to touch the lives of our communities for decades to come. Your enthusiasm is infectious and it shows in our literacy initiatives, focus on STEAM, healthy living and the continued focused on HBCU’s. It is refreshing, more than ever to support and organization that embraces and celebrates the future of the African-American family.

I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the Headquarters team as they support our members through their creativity, dedication and hard work.

We continue to find ways to incorporate technology and enhance the membership experience so that your focus can be programming and networking. While this magazine showcases annual activities and events that happen across the country, please continue to share year round so that we can highlight via social media. It is important more than ever that we highlight and affirm positive images. On behalf of the National Headquarters team, congratulations are extended to the 2014-2016 National Executive Board for providing the visionary leadership necessary for our chapters to be successful.

Enjoy the 2016 SCOPE! All my best,

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has!”

- Margaret Mead 4

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Jack and Jill of America foundation T

he future is bright and full of promise as we move forward to implement the Strategic Plan. It is exciting and humbling to take on the role of President of Jack and Jill of America Foundation. As a former Member-at-Large, past Foundation Vice President, and 15-year Jack and Jill mom, I am ready and willing to work diligently to build on the progress we’ve made to advance your Foundation ahead. In addition, Vice President Mavis James also brings a great deal of knowledge and experience to her position, solidifying board leadership and commitment that will drive progress toward our new strategy. Rest assured, the Foundation Board of Trustees and Foundation staff led by Pier Blake, Executive Director will work tirelessly toward our goal, “to transform African American communities, one child at a time”.

Our commitment for the next 5 years!

At Jack and Jill Foundation, we are committed to doing our part in turning the tide and developing measurable impact in the African American community.

In 2015, we designed a new organization with one guiding principle — everything we do will be in support of transforming African American communities, one child at a time.

SHELLEY BROWN COOPER, ED. Foundation President

It really is that simple — and powerful. We exist to transform the lives of African American children, and statistics prove that the best way to do so is to improve their environments. We exist because we believe nothing is more important than the health, education and well-being of African American children long term, and we are laser focused on making a difference in those core drivers of success.

We’ve done amazing work in the past but, that’s not enough. There is much more to be done. Your support has brought us this far, and your increased support, passion and commitment are much needed to help make a difference in the lives of our children and communities. We have a clear roadmap, and together we will be successful in our mission.

Our hope There is hope in giving, hope in support and hope in a clear plan to affect change. Our work is primed to have an incredible impact in the coming years on African American Families, Education, and Health and Wellness.

Thank you for your continued support!

PIER A.H. BLAKE

Foundation Executive Director SCOPE 2016

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Meet the 2015-2016

National Program Committee

National Program Director

regina edmondson

Regional Program Chair

Regional Program Chair

nikki farrior

Regional Program Chair

Chair

central

eastern

far west

Regional Program Chair

Regional Program Chair

Regional Program Chair

Regional Program Chair

mid-atlantic

mid-western

south central

southeastern

gladys henderson

helen griffith

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celeste adams

melissa johnson

ninevah lowery

latrecia jordan

Kimberly Goode

National Editor, National Teen Advisor

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s your National Teen Board, we are excited to represent the teens of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. At the On the Hill Summit, we heard from inspirational speakers who opened our eyes to the importance of sharing our stories as African American teens in our respective communities. So now, we as the national teen board want to share our story with the Jack and Jill Community.

We are a group of teens who hail from the seven regions that make up the Jack and Jill national organization: Central, Eastern, Far West, Mid-Atlantic, Mid-Western, South Central, and Southeastern.

Our mission: to be accountable and available for our constituents, to effectively carry out our duties as regional teen presidents, and to make an impact across the nation— embodying our national theme: The Power to Make a Difference. But that begs the questions how do we accomplish this goal?

Our solution is to know our stories to properly defend our stories. Our solution is to have cultural and legislative advocacy. Our solution is to get our teens to vote. Let us strive to have our views in government, our values respected, and our voices heard. We as the National Teen Board not only encourage you to register to vote, but to be a leader yourself and galvanize teens in your community to vote as well.

So for this year, we will strive to have collective impact through two efforts:

We want to enhance the image of Black youth and Jack and Jill of America by highlighting our achievements and strengths. We will accomplish this through a #MyTrueStory campaign. We ask all teens to use the #MyTrueStory to share their accomplishments and successful attributes. We encourage all Jack and Jill teens to get their friends to join in as well to flood social media with positive images of black youth.

At teen conference, we will provide additional information about supporting legislative initiatives of the national organization, including the Voting Rights Act, the Strong Start for America’s Children Act and the Police Reporting of Information, Data and Evidence (PRIDE) Act; and ensuring are educated on how to register to vote.

As one of the panelists said at the On the Hill Summit, “It is hard to be what you cannot see,” and we need to see our ideals in government.

We hope that you support us in our endeavors.

Thank you and regards, Micah Armstrong, Central Region Andrew Rainey, Eastern Region Michael Freeman, Far West Region Lindsey Shavers, Mid-Atlantic Region Kendall Beache, Mid-Western Region Gabrielle Otey, South Central Region Reginald Lawson, Southeastern Region SCOPE 2016

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Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Central Regional Teen President Micah Armstrong enjoys volleyball, boxing, dance and traveling the world with her mom. She is a student body government and national honor society leader who aspires to be a chemical engineer. #JJTeenPower

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Eastern Region Teen President Andrew Rainy is a biological sciences major at Brooklyn Technical High School. A pianist, artist and soccer enthusiast, he aspires to be a cardiologist. #JJTeenPower

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Far West Region Teen President Michael Freeman is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Honor Society and a scholar athlete. He aspires to pursue a career as an entertainment lawyer or sports broadcaster after college. #JJTeenPower

#JJTeenPower Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Mid-Atlantic Regional Teen President Lindsey Shavers is an honors student in an International Baccalaureate program, a national teen leader, entrepreneur and backpacker who aspires to be an orthodontist. #JJTeenPower

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Jack and Jill of America, Inc. South Central Regional Teen President Gabrielle Otey is a student-athlete at St. John’s School and aspires to own and operate medical clinics throughout the Houston area. #JJTeenPower

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. MidWestern Regional Teen President Kendall Beache is a civic leader, an avid learner and a representative of her school and community. She has apassion for math and science. #JJTeenPower

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Southeastern Regional Teen President Reginald Lawson aspires to be a manager for music artist and one day own a record label. #JJTeenPower

2015 ON THE HILL SUMMIT NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE SEPTEMBER 12 - 15

Nyya Parson-Hudson Legislative Chair, Southeastern Region Andrea Curtis Mchenry Legislative Chair, South Central Region

Being a voice for children who have no voice, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is one of the premier organizations with aims and objectives developed to enhance the quality of life for children and families. On September 15th, 2015, Jack and Jill convened the 5th Biennial On the Hill Legislative Summit at the JW Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC.

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he four day summit brought together over 575 mothers, teens and tweens from across the nation and provided a platform for workshops, lectures, discussions and commemorations of significant historical milestones in our civil rights history. The summit kicked-off with a Post-Ferguson Panel Discussion, Tweens and teens were able to ask thought-provoking questions of the panel about racial discrimination and social injustice within their schools and communities. The distinguished panel included Charles F. Coleman, a noted civil rights attorney and former Brooklyn prosecutor, Chanelle Hardy, Chief of Staff and Media Legal Advisor to Commissioner Mignon Clyburn of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), David Johns, Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans, and Angela Rye, Principal and CEO of IMPACT

Strategies. The panel discussion was moderated by Jeanette Hordge-Smith, a journalist and Founder & CEO of Dash Coordinating & Marketing. Following the panel discussion, attendees were able to enjoy Legislative workshops that focused on meaningful strategies and tools to engage our youth in modern day civil rights advocacy designed for the 21st century. The topics for the workshops included The Art and Science of Protest and the First Amendment Today, Gun Control, Racial Profiling and the Art of Survival, The Junior Statesmen/Jack and Jill Partnership, Voting Rights Act of 1965; Civic Engagement: The Grand Jury Process, the Criminal Justice System. Mothers were also treated to a workshop of their own: Preparing Our Children for the Future, which offered guidance on rearing our children in a complex and changing society.

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The second day of the summit focused on the theme of the conference, “Milestones: Remembering to Never Forget”. Families began the day with an inspiring worship service at the historic Metropolitan AME Church. After the service, participants received a powerful history lesson from Earnest Green, one of the students that comprised the “Little Rock Nine”. Green and the Little Rock Nine integrated the then all white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Following the service, National President Tammy King presented her “Presidents’ Excellence in Legislative Advocacy Awards” during the Legislative Awards luncheon where she recognized the best of the best legislative programming and the winners of the inaugural essay contest. Guest speaker Marian Wright Edelman was on hand to offer Congratulations to the following chapters for their outstanding legislative activities: 1st place: Greater Channel Chapter, South Central Region 2nd place: Queens Chapter, Eastern Region 3rd place: Cleveland Chapter, Mid-Western Region

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Also, thirty-nine (39) young writers from across the country reflected upon the significance of important milestones to the African American community and how it is relevant to his/her current experiences.

The essay topics were the 50th Anniversary of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, 50th Anniversary of the Selma March, 45th Anniversary of the Founding of the Congressional Black Caucus, 177th Anniversary of the founding of Metropolitan AME Church, 150th Anniversary of the End of the Civil War, the 13th Amendment, and the Juneteenth Celebration. Each child’s essay was featured during the month of September on our national website and the organization’s Facebook page. The essays were judged by Howard University School of Communications faculty and students.

Congratulations to our winners: 1st Place: Evan Randall McHenry, South Central Region Humble-Kingwood Chapter 2nd Place: Justin Hershman, Far West Region Pasadena Chapter 3rd Place: Ross Cooper, Eastern Region Alexandria-Mt Vernon Chapter; Jillian Martin, South Central Region North Suburban Dallas

Chapter; Lucas Mebane, Mid-Atlantic Region Greenville, NC Chapter In keeping with the theme, a moving and solemn remembrance of the 50th Anniversary of the March on Selma was held on Sunday night to re-enact the historical march and its significance on the civil rights era which was led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. To commemorate the march, a beautiful ceremony was conducted by National Program Director, Gladys Henderson and the National Teen Board, as well as Chapter Teen Leaders which recounted memorable events leading up to Bloody Sunday and the brutality which occurred on the Edmund Pettis Bridge.

The remembrance culminated with a policeescorted march from the JW Marriott Hotel to the Martin Luther King National Memorial where the teens gave a moving and stirring tribute to all those that lost their lives in acts of senseless gun violence and police brutality across the nation.

On Monday evening, Milestone Achievement

Awards were presented to notable honorees at the Capitol Reception and Legislative Awards Ceremony held at the Congressional Atrium & Auditorium. Honorees included U.S. Representative Robert “Bobby” Scott (D-VA), NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and the 2nd Episcopal District, A.M.E. Church. It was memorable evening complete with live jazz from the Herb Scott Trio and words of inspiration from Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), and power couple Michele and William Jawando, both respected attorneys and frequent contributors on TV and print media.

The final session of the Summit before participants embarked upon Capitol Hill for Congressional visits was the Carole Robertson Memorial Legislative Breakfast. On September 15, 1963, Carole Robertson was one of four little girls tragically killed in the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. Fifty-two years ago to the day, participants honored the life of Carole Robertson with a special program and pledged SCOPE 2016

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to carry her in their hearts as they advocated for women and children everywhere. Carole’s sister Diane Braddock and Past Eastern Region Teen President and co-author of Seven Days with Carole, Taylor Hamilton were the special guests at the program. After a briefing on Legislative Advocacy from Cachavious English, Legislative Director for Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL), the summit concluded with legislative visits on Capitol Hill. The meetings, with key legislators, were conducted by the teens and provided an opportunity to voice their concerns and advocate on behalf of all children and families on local matters of interest.

United States Capitol. This was truly a powerful and impactful event that showed how we can accomplish positive change in our communities through our collective voice.

Other activities included a stunning Presidents’ welcome reception which offered spectacular views of the Washington DC landscape, a college lecture and tour of Howard University, as well as tours of the Library of Congress, the Pentagon and

Felita Daniels Ashley Mid-Western Region

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National Legislative Committee Tammy King NEB Liaison, National President Karen Clopton Chair, Far West Region Betty Andrews Central Region Tomeka Bumbry Eastern Region Taunula Grayson Mid-Atlantic Region Andrea McHenry South Central Region Nyya Parson-Hudson Southeastern Region

Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated Focuses on

LITERACY

Gladys Henderson

National Program Director

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eading is the fundamental building block of a life filled with success and adventure. A child who can read can learn to do anything; can go anywhere; and can become whatever they want to be. Embracing the vision of our National President Tammy King, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is leading the way with a focus on literacy in our chapters and in our community. As you peruse the following pages you will discover the innovative approaches we are implementing to open the doors to the exciting world of reading in an effort to strengthen literacy. Once a child can read there is nothing, real or imagined, that is beyond his or her reach!

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Through book drives, reading corners and an emphasis on academic excellence, Jack and Jill is ensuring the next generation of leaders will value books and reading as the portal to the future. The following articles reflect the outstanding projects that our national literacy initiative has initiated.

Projects such as: • Honoring Marian Wright Edelman with a Virtual Book Drive to benefit Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools.

• Bedtime Stories; a monthly webinar featuring books/stories written and read by African American authors.

• Jack and Jill National Literacy Project – Reading Corner Competition Grant: 24 Chapters awarded a one-year, $3000 JJOA literacy grant designed to create or enhance Reading Corners, for K-3rd graders, throughout the United States.

Other projects that are in work include: • A JJOA Literary Masterminds Contest: The Power to Make a Difference through Literacy. In partnership with Brown Girls Books Publishing Company Jack and Jill will promote the literary talents of our children, K thru 5th grade, by choosing the best short stories and poem entries for inclusion in a Children’s Book.

This JJOA Anthology will be published and released at the 2016 42nd Biennial National Convention in Palm Desert, California • A Jack and Jill Literacy Public Service Announcement (PSA) Challenge: Tweens/ teens are encouraged to produce a PSA that conveys why reading is important and encourages youth of all ages to embrace reading. This competition seeks to bridge our youth’s passion for social media and digital communication with an appreciation of the importance of literacy.

Under the leadership of National Program Director Gladys Henderson, three dynamic adhoc committees were formed and are doing a phenomenal job successfully implementing the 2015-2016 literacy initiatives.

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Literary Committee

reading corner steering committee Gladys Henderson National Program Director Tonasha Sylvester Central Region Lisa Brown Eastern Region Vara Allen-Jones Far West Region Nikki Fleming Mid-Atlantic Region Lynn Watkins-Asiyanbi Mid-Western Region Kim Hunter Reed South Central Region Jessie Hood Southeastern Region Nikki Farrior Eastern Regional Program Chair

literary masterminds steering committee Gladys Henderson National Program Director Sharon Ivy Central Region Ca Melia Ta’ylor Eastern Region Helen Kimbrough Mid-Atlantic Region Agnes Godwin-Hall Mid-Western Region Danielle Wesley South Central Region Precious Jones Southeastern Region Celeste Adams Mid-Western Regional Program Chair

literary psa challenge steering committee Gladys Henderson National Program Director Venecia Kerr Central Region Kimberly Scott Eastern Region Warrentta Mann Mid-Atlantic Region Kristin Martin Rodriguez Mid-Western Region Pam Levine South Central Region Angel Brown Southeastern Region Latrecia Jordan Southeastern Regional Program Chair Our National Literacy Initiatives are providing our children and numerous children within our communities with relevant tools to not only become aware of the challenging yet wonderful world in which they live, but more importantly to mold and shape the world in which they live.

We are Jack and Jill!

The Children’s Defense Fund

VIRTUAL BOOK DRIVE Kristjen Renard Special Projects

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n accordance with our Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Collaborative National Thrust, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, in partnership with First Book, held our first Virtual Book Drive.

In conjunction with our Make a Difference Day on October 24, 2015, the Virtual Book Drive was an online fundraising tool implemented in our campaign in support of the CDF Freedom Schools program, which provides an exciting Integrated Reading Curriculum including carefully-chosen, developmentally-appropriate and culturally-relevant books.

Founded by Marian Wright Edelman and the Black Community Crusade for Children in 1995, the CDF Freedom Schools Program has served more

than 135,000 poor and low-income children ages 5-18. The program’s “I Can Make a Difference” theme incorporates the totality of CDF’s mission to support children and young adults to read, lead and excel, and to believe they can make a difference in themselves and in their families, schools, communities, country, and world with hope, education and action.

Thanks to the generosity of our membership and the power of giving, we raised more than $17,000 for CDF Freedom Schools sites in some of our neediest communities. Our work to support the CDF continues to help us live our mission of seeking for all children the same advantages we desire for our own.

THANK YOU JACK AND JILL FOR MAKING THIS POSSIBLE AND CONTINUING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! SCOPE 2016

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BEDTIME STORIES

Ninevah Rudolph Lowery

Far West Region Char, Seattle Chapter

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he excitement of reading has never been more evident as we celebrate another successful year of our popular Bedtime Stories webinar series. Much anticipated each month by our Pre-school – 3rd Grade families, in its 2nd year Bedtime Stories continues to nurture early childhood literacy and foster appreciation for books while also inciting a love and deeper understanding of our African American heritage.

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Each month, October – April this program year, our Jacks and Jills enjoyed via live webcast a wonderful bedtime story and the opportunity to engage with talented African American authors.

The children

warmed our hearts with delight as their curiosity about the literary process and the inspiration behind each book sparkled.

Indeed there is Power in unifying Jack and Jill children across the nation for an enjoyable Bedtime Stories hour, so much that many of them have now written their own Bedtime Story by participating in the Jack and Jill Literary Masterminds Children’s

Book

commitment

Contest.

Our

to early childhood

literacy has truly been strengthened.

Having encouraged even further interest in books this hour of Power has truly Made a Difference this program year!

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National Literacy Reading Corner

PROGRAM GRANT NIKKI FLEMING Mid Atlantic Region, South Charlotte Chapter, National Literacy Committee Member

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ack and Jill of America, Incorporated continues to support efforts to improve literacy among children in communities across the nation. Through its philanthropic arm, the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, it is awarding Reading Corner Literacy Grants to benefit non-profits and schools in 24 communities across the nation.

The Reading Corner Literacy Grants were designed to create or enhance Jack and Jill established reading corners throughout the United States. The grants have been awarded to local chapters in each of the organization’s eight regions to support literacy focused on students in grades K-3, and promote the Foundation’s strategy for Building Tomorrow’s Leaders.

“National Statistics show that only about one-third of American 4th graders are proficient in reading, and if children cannot read at grade level by the 4th grade, they are unlikely to ever catch up,” said Jack and Jill of America National President Tammy King. “Jack and Jill of America is committed to delivering programming and resources to address the disturbing literacy gap in our country so that children can reach their full potential.”

These grants are the latest programmatic offering Jack and Jill sponsors to improve literacy. The goal of the reading corners is to expose children to a wide range of wonderful books in a literacy rich environment that promotes the joy of reading to a minimum of 600 at-risk students. There is absolutely no investment like an investment made in a child and these special Reading Corners will be an investment with immeasurable returns.

Eradicating illiteracy starts with one book at a time and one child at a time.

Through this initiative, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated also partnered with ‘First Book’ in order to provide chapters that were awarded grants a marketplace to purchase culturally infused books at a discounted rate for their Reading Corners. By partnering with other community organizations also focused on the empowerment of children, Jack and Jill hopes to encourage expanded cognitive ability, foster a lifelong love for reading and increase the likelihood of overall academic success for the students that utilize the Jack and Jill Reading Corners.

Many congratulations to the JJOA National Literacy Committee for doing such an awesome job! The literacy committee was formed to develop and oversee the Reading Corner Competitive Grant Initiative. Under the direction and guidance of National Program Director Gladys Henderson, these eight devoted Mother Members (Chair) Kim Hunter-Reed of the Baton Rouge Chapter in the South Central Region, (Co-Chair) Lisa Brown of the Bergen-Passaic Chapter in the Eastern Region, Tonasha Sylvester of the Kansas City Missouri Chapter in the Central Region, Nikki Fleming of the South Charlotte Chapter in the Mid-Atlantic Region, Lynn Watkins-Asiyanbi of the Chicago Chapter in the Mid-Western Region, Jessie Hood of the Greater Metropolitan Chapter in the Southeastern Region, Far West Regional Member At Large, Vara Allen-Jones and Eastern Regional Programming Chair, Nikki Farrior. This amazing team developed a comprehensive grant application and award process allowing Jack and Jill chapters across the country to create or enhance Reading Corners in their local communities.

It is time for our little literary wonders to shine so let the reading begin! Follow the progress in the coming months on Twitter at #JJReads.

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The following chapters have been awarded a Jack and Jill of America Reading Corner Grant to support the promotion of literacy in their local communities: CENTRAL REGION

Far West Region

Kansas City, Missouri Reading Corner Grant

Tri-Valley Tri-Valley Jack & Jill Reading Corner

Eastern Region

Seattle Seattle Jack and Jill Reading Corner

Alexandria-Mt. Vernon Carole’s Corner: Building Readers through Caring Leaders Potomac Valley Jack & Jill Reading Corner Bridge Program South Jersey The Reading Tree Project Bergen-Passaic Jack and Jill Bergen-Passaic Reading Corner Rockland-Orange County JJROC Martin Luther King Center Reading Corner Buffalo Jack & Jill of Buffalo, Inc. : The Reading Corner Greater Essex County Healing Hearts through Healing Words

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Inland Empire Jack and Jill Inland Empire Reading Corner Mid-Atlantic Region Gastonia-Piedmont Read to Lead Project Orangeburg Project SHARE: Serving our Hometown Active Reading Experience Mid-Western Region Lake Shore It’s a great DAY to read! Jack and Jill Lake Shore Chapter Reading Corner At the Intersection of Learning & Fun Toledo Wayman D. Palmer Community YMCA Reading Zone North Oakland/Macomb North Oakland/Macomb Story Time Environment Enhancement

Oakland County WHRC Reading Corner South Central Region Humble-Kingwood Camp INSPIRE (INitiative for Students Participating In Reading Excellence) Greater Frisco Jack and Jill Reading Tree, A place to learn and grow Northeast Dallas Northeast Dallas Chapter Literacy Center Southeastern Region Atlanta Whitefoord Elementary School After School Reading Corner Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter’s Reading Garden Children Grow Here! Initiative Knoxville Kid’s Place Reading Corner Tallahassee Providence Reading Room

ASSOCIATES in ACTION Joli Cooper-Nelson

National Vice President

2ND ASSOCIATES GET-AWAY WEEKEND Las Vegas, NV November 13-15, 2016 Over 150 Jack and Jill Associate Jewels from across the country gathered for the 2nd Associates Getaway Weekend held at the beautiful Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The weekend’s focus was on fun and friendship! Associates participated in a variety of fun activities — there was truly something for everyone, including a Fashion Show at Saks Fifth Avenue, Hitzville: The Motown Review and a Sunday Jazz Brunch!

HOW I DISCOVERED THE JOY OF BEING A NEW MOTHER… It was an unexpected phone call, on an otherwise ordinary day. Not at all, the way I became a mother for the first time, with all the pomp and circumstance of whether it’s a boy or a girl. But unbeknownst to me I was about to become a mother for the first time again…A Jack and Jill Mother Away from Home.

The news came from the voice on the other end of the phone, which was polite and conversational. We talked about our children, our hopes and their dreams.

There was laughter and real joy. For even though we lived many miles apart we shared a common bond… motherhood and a sacred membership in Jack and Jill

of America, Inc. The Ford’s son Deuce had found a great opportunity, which would lead him to New England. He was going to school right in my backyard and they had reached out to me as the president of the Greater Hartford Chapter of Jack and Jill because their son wanted to interact with area teens in Jack and Jill. So on their first visit to New England we met and had dinner.

How would our children be alike…how would they be different? Her son…my daughter. Food and school sports was the common thread, but it was how they were different that incited lively conversation.

So when the Fords called for what they thought was asking a favor to host Deuce over a school holiday my family received the gift. It was super bowl weekend.

What a weekend! Deuce had a guy’s night out with another Jack and Jill father and son. Then the power went out at my daughter’s indoor soccer game, which forced us to return home order pizza and invite another Jack and Jill family over for games. The culmination to the weekend was the Panther’ versus the Broncos! However, the team that we were rooting on to victory was defeated. As the snow fell the kids were winding down the weekend in conversation. As Deuce contacted his school to inquire about a school delay, I heard him say my “host mother…” A sense of pride welled up inside…WOW that was so cool.

As mothers we have a 6th sense for unconditional love and caring. We recognize it in ourselves and in each other. I am very grateful to the Fords for giving me the privilege of being a “mother away from home” shepherding their amazing son.

Mother Kimberly Scott Greater Hartford Chapter President

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With passion and purpose Aaron “Deuce” Ford II is a sophomore attending The Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor, CT. He is from Las Vegas where his mother is the Vice President of the Las Vegas Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Aaron’s MAFH family is the Scott family.

Mother Kim Scott is the President of the Greater Hartford, CT Chapter. Her daughter Sydni attends Miss Porter’s School in Farmington, CT.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATES DAY OF SERVICE The Power to Make a Difference The National Associates Day of Service is an opportunity for Associates across the country to participate in many different service activities during the month of February.

The success of this initiative, which was unveiled at the 2012 National Convention, in honor of our 75th Anniversary, demonstrates the work Associates continue to do in our communities after they have graduated out of their local chapters. Activities include book drives, reading to children, food drives and care packages for children who are victims of abuse or neglect.

North Texas Chapter Associates The Associates of North Texas Chapter completed a community service project on Saturday, April 25th with their long time support of the 10th Annual Run/Walk Against Child Abuse - “Walking in Love event”, benefiting Community Partners of Denton County, Inc. The Associates participated as a vendor and hosted a Free Blood Pressure Checks table which resulted in over 25 visitors receiving their free blood pressure checks, along with their heart rate. Some of the Associates also walked as a group during the event completing the 5K distance; several of the Associates have participated in the annual Walk since its inception. A few of the mothers from the North Texas Chapter attended the event to show support for the Associates’ community service activity. Associates Myekye Hamilton and April Langston worked very closely with the Community Partners of the Denton County board and were instrumental in leading, planning, and coordinating various facets of the annual Walk.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEWEST JACK AND JILL ASSOCIATE GROUPS Central Region South Suburban Denver Eastern Region Arundel Bay Area Central New Jersey Northern Virginia (NOVA) Prince William County Far West Region Pasadena Las Vegas Inglewood Mid-Western Region Lake Shore Chapter South Central Region New Orleans San Antonio (Reactivation) Southeastern Region Tallahassee Pensacola Daytona Beach Lake Spivey

Honoring a Jack and Jill Legend

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ssociate Yvonne Lott King, Charter Member and the first President of the Mobile Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. passed away on January 21, 2016. She was 92 years young.

Her obituary says it best:

At the age of 91, Mrs. King spoke of her presidency to the Mobile Chapter during our Founders Day celebration. Her charge to the chapter to keep our children engaged so they can continue to make a difference in our community.

a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a charter member of The Sirens Club and a founding member of the Krewe of Don Q.

A true renaissance woman, Mrs. King was one of the first Black social workers employed by the Mobile County Department of Pensions and Security. She In June of 1956, Mrs. Yvonne King became also served as director of Social Work the first president of the newly chartered for the Mobile Head Start Program and Mobile Chapter. With 38 mothers and retired from the Mobile County Welfare 80 children, President King’s vision was Department. to not only ensure that Mrs. King was a prominent the children of Mobile member of the Mobile had all the opportunities community and an active available to them, but member of several civic to also ensure that our and social organizations. children would make a She was a charter difference. The Jack & member, president and Jill children were in the board member emeritus forefront of the integration of the Mobile Chapter of of public universities Jack & Jill of America, Inc. and institutions. They and remained an active visited new museums member of the Jack and and integrated the Jill Associates, a member State Junior Symphony of the Most Pure Heart of Orchestra. They marched Mary Alumni Association, in the historic Selma to a charter member of the Montgomery march with Dr. Martin Luther Greater Mobile Chapter of The Links, King, Jr. They sat-in at lunch counters Incorporated, and was a former chair (and and participated in the Montgomery Bus current member) of the Mobile Senior boycott.

Citizens Association Board. Mrs. King was

Mrs. Yvonne Lott King, thank you for paving the way.

Mrs. King was a trailblazer and paved the way for many African American women.

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THE THOMPSON QUINTUPLETS Gladys Henderson

National Program Director

The Final Report

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’m extremely proud to say that the commitment Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated made in 1998, to provide financial, educational and other resources to the Thompson Quintuplets until their 18th birthday, has successfully been met. For the past seventeen years our mothers have provided extensive support that has aided in giving Stella, Octavia, Richard, Emily, and Anne’ Marie, born on May 8, 1997, an opportunity to become self-sufficient adults in the same manner we would want for our children.

them through a National Service Project titled “The Village Project”. The name was based upon the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child”.

The body also approved a $50 per chapter suggested annual donation to help build a trust fund for the five Thompson Children. As a result of this encounter, the Thompson’s and JJOA appeared in Jet magazine (July, 2001).

THE BEGINNING

Our commitment as a national organization was to assist the parents in raising the children until they were 18 years of age. This type of a commitment was a strong statement of how the organization on a national level promotes and exemplifies two of the aims of our national organization:

The nation’s first African American sextuplets – Stella Kimberly, Octavia Daniella, Richard Lindon, Emily Elizabeth, Allison Nicole (deceased at birth) and Anne’ Marie Amanda - were born to Jacqueline and Lindon Thompson at Georgetown University Hospital.

They were the third living set of sextuplets in the United States and the only Black set of sextuplets. After the initial hype, the nation soon forgot about the family of seven and vast demand on its resources. Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated (JJOA) recognized a need and developed a plan to address it.

At the 1998 National Convention in New York, members voted to provide assistance to the Thompson Family. At the 2000 National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, not only did the family attend and met 90-year old Louise Truitt Jackson Densch one of our founders, but the body also voted to support 24

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To aid mothers in learning more about their children by careful study.

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To seek for all children the same advantage which we desire for our own.

Over the years the organization has provided varied support for activities and household maintenance.

We also provided the guidance needed to thrive and pursue their goals based on their individual interests and strengths.

A CALL TO ACTION In 2000, the family situation was brought to the attention of Jack and Jill of America and early on the need for a national liaison between the organization and the family was deemed necessary. In addition to assisting the family financially Jack and Jill of America appointed four liaisons during the duration of our seventeen year commitment. They were given the charge to develop a rapport with the mother and the children, assess the family needs, identify resources and other organizations involvement and bring that information to the National Program Director in order for recommendations to be made to the board. Each was instrumental in providing guidance, support and direction to the Quintuplets’ mother Jackie Thompson.

The liaisons who unselfishly gave of their time and service were, Evelyn Kershaw of the Prince William

County Chapter (1998 thru 2004); Debbie DillardThomas of the Baltimore County Chapter (2004 thru 2009); Kimberly Leonard of the Washington D.C. Chapter (2009 thru 2012); and Monique LeNoir of the Washington D.C. Chapter (2012 thru 2016). With the guidance and support of the National Program Director these liaisons have spent many hours at the school in meetings with the teachers, teaching mother how to advocate for her children, and role modeling parenting skills to mom Jackie. We thank them for all their amazing work with the family.

Over the years the organization has raised over $100,000 which has been used to provide varied support such as: educational tools and study aides (school supplies, computers, laptops, educational software); tutoring; summer camps; public transportation; school and special occasion clothing; school/class trips; sponsored enrichment trips; annual

holiday and birthday celebrations; assisted with emergency household needs.

IN SUMMARY Jack and Jill Moms, as we come to the end of our long-standing relationship we can certainly beam with pride knowing the unquestionable impact we have made in the lives of this wonderful family. The four young ladies have graduated from High School.

Richard has not yet graduated, he is still pursuing that as his primary goal.

Octavia is preparing to enter her freshman year at Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, majoring in Military Science; Stella has been accepted to Fisher College in Boston, MA and plans to pursue a degree in Hospitality and Tourism; Anne’ Marie is attending New Carrollton Job Corps; and Emily is working to get accepted into the University of the

District of Columbia with aspirations to receive an Associate of Arts in Education with a focus on Child Care. Meanwhile, Richard is working to identify his passion and area of purpose that will put him on his road to destiny.

Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated was the constant resource that remained in the lives of the Thompson family without wavering. THANK YOU for all you did to help impact the lives of these young adults! Our Jack and Jill Mothers across the country came together with resources and commitment to make a difference in the lives of children!

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JACK AND JILL

NATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS J

ack and Jill of America, Incorporated is a proud partner of the following organizations who play a critical role in helping us to realize our missions of community service and preparing children to be successful leaders. To find out ways that your organization can partner with Jack and Jill, please call us at (202) 667-7010.

American Heart Association Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is proud to join forces with the American Heart Association’s Power To End Stroke movement to raise awareness of stroke risk factors and warning signs among the African American community. The American Heart Association (AHA) is a non-profit organization in the United States that fosters appropriate cardiac care in an effort to reduce disability and deaths caused by cardiovascular disease and stroke. It is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The American Heart Association is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is: “Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.”

Children’s Defense Fund The Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) is a non-profit child advocacy organization that has worked relentlessly for 40 years to ensure a level playing field for all children. They champion policies and programs that lift children out of poverty; protect them from abuse and neglect; and ensure their access to health care, quality education and a moral and spiritual foundation. Supported by foundation and corporate grants and individual donations, CDF advocates nationwide on behalf of children to ensure children are always a priority.

First Book First Book is determined to see that all children, regardless of their economic conditions, can achieve more in school and in life through access to an ongoing supply of new books. With the help of their partners, donors and dedicated volunteers, they have provided more than 135 million new books to schools and programs serving children in need. Yet millions of children are still waiting for our help

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Habitat for Humanity Through our Rebuild America initiative, Jack and Jill of America is committed to raising awareness and advocating for universal decent housing — striving to dismantle and alter the systems that reinforce and entrench poverty housing. In doing so, we can make an affordable, decent place to live a reality for all. Jack and Jill of America members have donated to the Windy City Habitat for Humanity, and have dedicated resources and labor to rebuilding efforts in New Orleans, Philadelphia, Wilmington (NC) and in our Far West Region. Habitat For Humanity International is an international, non-governmental, non-profit organization devoted to building “simple, decent, and affordable” housing.

The mission statement of Habitat for Humanity is to “seek to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. Homes are built using volunteer labor and are sold at no profit.

Junior Statesmen of America Through our On the Hill Summit Legislative priorities, we partner with the Junior State of America (JSA). JSA’s mission is to strengthen American democracy by educating and preparing high school students for life-long involvement and responsible leadership in a democratic society. In the student-run Junior State and at JSA summer schools and summer institutes, participants learn statesmanship as they engage in political discourse.

They cultivate democratic leadership skills, challenge one another to think critically, advocate their own opinions, develop respect for opposing views and learn to rise above self-interest to promote the public good. By participating in these activities, each member gains a more intelligent and informed viewpoint. JSA also provides a wonderful chance to meet and make friends with scores of other bright, involved students who have similar interests. It’s an experience that no young person would want to miss.

March of Dimes Almost from our inception, Jack and Jill of America has been involved with efforts to ending polio from fundraising to participating in walks, coordinating auctions, and chapter participation in March of Dimes programming. More recently, our participation in the March for Babies program helps to ensure that all babies get a chance for healthy lives. After being a catalyst in eradicating polio, the March of Dimes turned its focus to preventing birth defects and infant mortality. It has led the way to discover the genetic causes of birth defects, to promote newborn screening, and to educate medical professionals and the public about best practices for healthy pregnancy. The rising incidence of premature birth has demanded action, and the March of Dimes has responded by initiating an intensive, multi-year campaign to raise awareness and find the causes of prematurity.

White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans President Obama created the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans. The Initiative is a cross-agency effort aimed at identifying evidencebased practices that improve student achievement, and developing a national network that shares these best practices. The Initiative will support the President’s desire to “restore the country to its role as the global leader in education, to strengthen the nation by improving educational outcomes for African Americans of all ages, and to help ensure that all African Americans receive an education that properly prepares them for college, productive careers, and satisfying lives.”

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Regina Page

National Recording Secretary

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ack and Jill of America, Incorporated continues its partnership with the March of Dimes (MOD) in service to the community. Through our efforts with March for Babies and Prematurity Awareness Month (PAM), we have the Power to Make a Difference by raising awareness and funds to help prevent birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.

Last year, we had the opportunity to nominate our Jack and Jill Alumni for positions on the March of Dimes National Youth Council, the highest level of youth leadership they offer. Not only did Jack and Jill have more nominees than any other MOD partner, but alum Naya Coard (Raleigh-Wake, NC) was 1 of only 5 college students selected from across the country to join the Council!

In response to the 90% participation challenge issued

by President King, our members were out in full force wearing their Jack and Jill hats and shirts, carrying banners and their enthusiasm, and participating in their local 2015 March for Babies walks. The total amount raised was $111,911 – a 92% increase over the $58,128 raised the previous year!!

In November, each chapter was asked to complete an online survey about their PAM activities. The survey results showed that most chapter respondents chose to participate in multiple activities, but wearing purple to a meeting continues to be the most popular activity. In response to a heightened social media focus, chapters and members also: “Liked” the World Prematurity Day Facebook page Posted a story or photo on the MOD Facebook page Tweeted about PAM and/or World Prematurity Day Chapter and member engagement is truly making a difference in the lives of mothers and babies!

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MENTAL HEALTH

AWARENESS Regina Page, National Recording Secretary Kimberley Goode, National Editor

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ur National President Tammy King envisioned generating awareness and taking action as important strategies we can use to help bring attention to our children, family members, neighbors and friends to end the silence and stigma surrounding the issue of mental health.

We are an organization of over 230 chapters nationwide, representing over 40,000 family members. We have had some suicide issues at all ages in our organization, and we know it is on the rise in our communities. As a family organization devoted to the welfare of children and the entire family, we understand that providing awareness on this and other mental health topics is crucial for parents and children, alike.

We were pleased to expand our health initiative to incorporate a mental health focus and joining forces with others to create a national discussion regarding this issue that touches many. I was honored to collaborate with mental health professionals and host a national webinar to provide invaluable and timely information for our membership on suicide and suicide prevention, cultural issues in psychiatry, and mental health advocacy and resources.

To support our efforts to raise awareness, the National Public Relations Committee, under the direction of National Editor Kimberley Goode, created a social media campaign highlighting facts about mental illness. The info graphics were used on the organization’s website and through our social media channels Facebook and Twitter. The goal of the social media campaign was to reduce the stigma that can sometimes prevent people from tackling this issue and to help parents and children know they are not alone in coping with this challenging condition.

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Central Regional Highlights Regina Edmondson central region program chair

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he Central Region began an exciting new year with a strong focus on programming. The nearly 400 cool and classy mother members of the Central Region were invited to attend one of the two mother and teen workday clusters. The agenda for the mothers included workshops on programming perfection, membership matters, QuickBooks training, upgrading technology and developing signature chapter events. These

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workshops provided mothers the tools needed to create strong, creative, engaging programs by sharing ideas and exploring all of the national program thrusts: education, culture, civic, legislation, and community service. Training on new member intake helped chapters determine demographics needs, and recruiting prospective members. QuickBooks training provided skill building opportunities to keep chapters financially fit. Upgrading technology provided tools for chapters to keep up with the ever changing world of technology by increasing their footprint and reach.

Signature events allowed mothers to share with each

other and to brainstorm ideas to create successful signature events for chapters.

The teen clusters aligned with our national thrust supporting teens in mastering communication skills through spoken word, leadership development through intentional advocacy to promote positive change in our communities. Fundraising workshops allows teens to contribute to local chapters, national organizations and community partners.

Central Regional members were active participants in the On the Hill Legislative Summit with senior teen Legislative Chair Jalen Ingelman lead the opening of the “We Will Not Forget” campaign. Teens throughout the region also participated in financial literacy, community service, leadership development and communications modules. Chapters planned and executed challenging STEAM focused programs, healthy living and cultural events such as Rites of Passage and Beautillion events. Chapters also continued to participate various reading literacy programs as well as the national March of of Dimes walks.

Programs and participation across the Central Region continue to grow. The Region offered several well received workshops and webinars on creating a superior handbook. We had 99% submittal of program handbooks for the year.

We are excited to end the year with the Children’s Cluster and Teen Conference as we continue to support and develop our young leaders of color.

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Eastern Regional Highlights nikki farrior eastern region program chair

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he Mighty Eastern Region is committed to “Empowering Families for SUCCESS!” as we continue a robust season of positive, peaceful, purposeful and productive community impacting programs.

our youngest Jacks and Jills Like Olympians”. The world through Olympic themed imagination and creativity programming.

to “Work, of STEAM activities, with fun

Play and Live was explored encouraging and exciting

In February 2015, the ER Teen Summit was held in Washington, DC. Teens from across the Region participated in fascinating case studies, toured Howard University and enjoyed a private concert/party at the end of the day.

Our 2015 ER Teen Conference was hosted by the New Castle County, DE chapter in Philadelphia. Our teens prepared and packaged over 35,000 meals for countries around the world by working with the organization Stop Hunger Now. Our teens also networked with their peers, participated in a variety of educational and inspirational workshops and displayed tremendous talent in the Talent Showcase.

Our 2015 ER Children’s Cluster was hosted by the Burlington-Willingboro Chapter and encouraged

In July 2015, the Northern Virginia chapter graciously hosted our 29th Biennial Regional Conference at the

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beautiful Atlantis Resort, in Nassau, Bahamas. We enjoyed a Junkanoo parade on a private beach. Our children and teens enjoyed exciting programming including a private beach teen party and children’s scavenger hunt that didn’t leave one shell untouched.

We also elected new officers--RD Mondi KumbulaFraser, RT Delia Ware-Tibbs, RS Margaret Gibson and MAL Akira Bell-Johnson, listened to reports and voted on items to strengthen our organization.

which collected 3000 books for organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club--including 400 donated by the Chester County, PA Chapter alone.

The Eastern Region continues to provide powerful programming that pops, “Empower Families for SUCCESS!” and positively impact our communities.

It has been a pleasure to serve as your Eastern Region Program Chair.

In September 2015 the Eastern Region once again hosted the Capitol Reception at the On The Hill Summit, in Washington DC and October 2015 began our robust cluster season. Our Mothers Cluster host chapters were Greater Albany (Northern Cluster), Morris County (Metropolitan Cluster), Philadelphia (Delaware Valley Cluster) and Southern Maryland (Southern Cluster).

Programming included an interactive session with former Essence editor Susan Taylor, a panel discussion on African Americans in the Media, challenges of living with depression, Financial Fitness for Families and Teen Talk, which addressed racial identity. We also held a Regional Book Drive,

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Far West Regional Highlights ninevah rudolph lowery far west region program chair

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he mothers of the Fabulous Far West Region are creating leaders through distinctive programming in the six farthest western states in the country – Alaska, Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Under the leadership of Regional Director LaTanya Bellow and her executive board, the Far West Northern and

Southern Area Work Days successfully ignited our Power to Make a Difference. Across the region, Mothers were excited to engage and teens stood before us with confidence and eloquently delivered presentations on The State of Black America, reminding us of the benefits of our children’s active involvement in this amazing organization. More enlightened inspiration came from notable speakers that included California’s 32nd Attorney General, Kamala Harris. As the first woman and the first African American to hold the office in California,

her message was one of truth, impact, and power.

Attorney General Harris instructed the teens to “get to the table where the discussions are happening and decisions are being made.” Her message to them encouraged empowerment, vision, and direction!

and other community organizations on October 25th, 2015. This educational interactive included Black Lives Matter co-founder Melinda Abdullah and other community leaders attracted 300 attendees and received media and press coverage. Participating in local MLK walks and service activities supporting African American children and communities, chapters across the region have embraced the commitment

As a region, we are indeed Making a Difference with activities like the Black Lives Matter youth forum hosted by the Los Angeles Chapter with sister Chapters 34

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to “never forget” where we came from. Embracing our Power, we are community and service focused, ensuring that our presence is visible in communities where we live and work.

We’re also committed to educational thrusts. This is evident throughout the region as mothers find creative ways to incorporate S.T.E.A.M. programming. During Children’s Cluster season, the Phoenix Chapter will host an opportunity to explore musical instruments and music of the world at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix. Tri-Valley Chapter will host a Power of STEAM event that will include a music and story workshop, robot coding, and more at the Children’s Creativity Museum in San Francisco. Other Regional Children’s Clusters will offer fun educational experiences as well.

In closing, please help us congratulate two of our

chapters for sixty years of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated membership.

San Diego Chapter celebrated it’s 60th anniversary with active and former members, alumni, and dads in November 2015. Oakland Bay Area Chapter will celebrate its 60th anniversary during its Flip Flop Lemon Drop Fundraiser in April 2016. Congratulations also to the Inland Empire, Seattle, and Tri-Valley Chapters for being awarded grants to establish Reading Corners.

With these Chapter programs, and the many others around the region, we will leave indelible footprints and deliver countless hours in the communities we serve.

We are truly embracing our national thrusts and the Power to Make a Difference is evident in programs and activities throughout the Fabulous Far West Region.

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Mid-Atlantic Regional Highlights helen griffith mid-atlantic region program chair

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he 2015-2017 theme for the MARvelous Mid-Atlantic Region was taken to heart by the region when we descended on the Massanutten Resort in McGaheysville, VA over the Martin Luther King Holiday weekend. This was the first overnight Regional Trip the region has ever taken.

Far and away the response to the trip was “Excellent!” “My family had so much fun!” “We will definitely be back next year!”

To say that the region was ready for this type of trip is an understatement. It sold out in a matter of weeks. We had participation from every state and welcomed over 160 families. We had activities for all, from the snow to the pool to the spa. There were black history games after dinner, as well as time to connect with new friends from around the region.

The Mid-Atlantic Region is off to great places – bonding, celebrating and recreating. With much work to be done, the Mid-Atlantic Region definitely takes the time to have some fun!

In addition to the trip, our Region had chapters celebrating milestone anniversaries – Durham celebrated 70 years, Midlothian VA 25 years and Eastern North Carolina, Queen City and South Charlotte each celebrated 5 years. The region is growing still with one active interest group in the Fredericksburg, VA area.

“Oh the places you’ll go!

There is fun to be done!

There are points to be scored. There are games to be won. And the magical things you can do with that ball will make you the winning-est winner of all.”

- Dr. Seuss, Oh, The Places You’ll Go!

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“You’re off to Great Places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting, So... get on your way!”

- Dr. Seuss, Oh, The Places You’ll Go!”

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Mid-Western Regional Highlights celeste adams mid-western region program chair

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he Mighty Mid-Western Region is Living the Jack & Jill Experience: Mission Minded, Dream Driven! Under the guidance of Director Nadine Gibson, chapters across the region are doing what we do best - providing positive learning experiences through innovative programming, nurturing and developing leaders and providing a platform for excellence.

Train up a child in the way that he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22: 6

In the Mid-Western Region, we Train our children to become leaders and nurture their quest for knowledge and understanding. We encourage them to be active participants at the chapter level and in region sponsored Children/Tween/ Teen events, which intentionally incorporate JMB Leadership and Development and Financial Literacy Modules. Teens are positioned to lead the annual Teen Leadership Conference, where we support their leadership development, reinforce their commitment to service and equip partners to ignite the topics that teens are most passionate 38 

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about, alongside capable visionaries who bring the conference to fruition. We understand that the Jack and Jill experience positions young people to exhibit and expand their skills, and together we are preparing the next generation to transform their communities and our world.

We empower our children to believe that when they see unjust events in the world, they can dare to change them; through letter writing campaigns, assisting with voter registration drives, peaceful protest marches, boycotts, hands-on acts of service and a commitment to giving back. Community

service and philanthropy are a signature of the Mighty-Midwestern Region, where the spirit of making a difference is taught and caught – through all that we do.

We serve like no other, as is evidenced when we spearhead a multi-chapter charge to not only deliver clean water to Flint, MI but also exercise our ‘collective legislative powers’ through targeted letter writing campaigns to key

legislators. In addition, we are seen in our own communities as a constant source of support to a myriad of diverse local, neighborhood-based organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

We seize the ‘Power to Make a Difference’ on a global level when we organize to send needed supplies to Liberia and Sierra Leone, in an effort to eradicate Ebola, as well as when we partner to bring clean water to small provinces in Africa, by helping to build water wells and pumps.

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South Central Regional Highlights melissa johnson south central region program chair

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n a strong display of our commitment to excellence, over 115 Mothers, Teens and Tweens from the Sensational South Central Region attended the 2015 On the Hill Legislative Summit in Washington, DC. The South Central Delegation was led by National Program Director, Gladys Henderson, South Central Regional Director, Consuela GuilloryAdams, Regional Teen President, Gabrielle Otey, and Regional Legislative Chair, Andrea McHenry.

During the summit, our youth participated in lively and meaningful forums, workshops and discussions focused on a variety of issues including gun control, civic engagement, and voting rights.

The attendees took part in a beautiful vigil at the MLK National Memorial commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March.

The summit culminated with the South Central descending on Capitol Hill to conduct legislative visits with members of Congress. South Central Teens and Tweens advocated on legislative issues impacting the lives of children. They ensured that their voices were heard in an impactful way.

The Theme of the Summit, “Remembering to Never Forget” paid homage to milestones in civil rights history. These events provided the inspiration for a National Essay contest and several impromptu essay contests. In true South Central spirit, our youth embraced the challenge and had several award-winning entries. Winners included:

1st Place National Essay Contest Evan McHenry, Humble-Kingwood 3rd Place National Essay Contest Jillian Martin, N. Suburban Dallas Metropolitan Essay Contest Winners Gabrielle Orion, North Houston Suburban Jordan Bernard, Austin Post-Ferguson Essay Contest Winners Turner Hill- North Suburban Dallas Asa Jones, DFW-Mid-Cities Chandler Mitchell, DFW-Mid-Cities Gabrielle Orion, North Houston Suburban Gabrielle Otey- Houston Sydney Starkes- Austin

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Southeastern Regional Highlights latrecia jordan southeastern region program chair

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he Sweet, Sweet Southeastern Region of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is continuing to provide stellar programming opportunities for its members. Under the leadership of Regional Director Gina WilliamsJackson and her regional leadership team, this philosophy perseveres with our regional theme “Embracing Our Past, Enriching Our Present, Empowering Our Future.” This is evidenced by the mothers and teen leadership conferences, children’s clusters and super clusters, regional

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trips, countless community service projects, and fundraisers hosted throughout the region. We are continuing to build a legacy by remembering not to forget our past thus empowering the youth who are our future.

The Southeastern Region 2015 Mothers’ Workday was hosted by the Orlando, Florida chapter and focused on training, development opportunities, and best practices for our mothers’. We are dedicated to keeping the momentum, drive, and energy going as we prepare for our spring and summer events. The Children’s Clusters and Super Clusters theme will honor Regional Director Gina Williams-Jackson regional theme, “Embracing Our Past, Enriching Our Present, Empowering

Our Future”, and will be hosted by the following chapters; Daytona Beach, East Suburban Atlanta, Jackson, MS and Memphis. The 2016 Southeastern Regional Teen Conference themed “The Color of My Skin, Doesn’t Define What’s Within” will celebrate its 60th anniversary. It will be hosted in “Hollywood of the South”, Atlanta, Georgia by the Buckhead Atlanta and Greater North Atlanta Chapters.

struggles of wartime for African Americans. In Jamestown, we will visit the site of the first recorded landing of African slaves on the Virginia waterfront and see how much the African American story helped to shape the creation of our nation. We will end our trip with a tour at the historic Hampton University where the Emancipation Oak still thrives and its African American campus museum is one of the oldest in the United States.

While the Southeastern Region is known to have its own exceptional programming, this year the regional trip promises to bring forth memories that will last a lifetime. It is with great pride that we continue building upon our cultural heritage thrust by remembering not to forget. The 11th Annual Regional Trip titled, “We Will Remember So We Won’t Forget”, will take our Southeastern families to Williamsburg, Virginia where they will experience culturally rich locations such as Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Hampton University. Our families will become citizens of Colonial America as we engage with the local community and experience firsthand the daily SCOPE 2016

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he National Programming Thrust is set forth by the National President with the concurrence of the National Executive Board. The National Program Director is responsible for the execution of the National Programming Thrust. The National Programming Thrust is intended to provide emphasis and direct resources to address contemporary issues of the day that impact youth, in addition to other required areas of programming. This is our opportunity to create exciting and new programs to keep our members and children invigorated about their Jack and Jill experience!

Under the direction of National President Tammy King and the National Executive Board, the 2014-2016 national theme is “The Power to Make A Difference.”

Following in the direction of our Founders, this theme captures National President King’s vision to ensure impactful programming that is substantive, transformative and sustainable.

GLADYS HENDERSON National Program Director 44

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The development of our program thrust is intended to deepen our commitment to all children in three key areas; Educational, Cultural and Civic.

Under these headings, our focus is on initiatives that empower our members and youth to make a difference in our chapters, communities and in the lives of children wherever they may live or whatever circumstances they face.

As your National Program Director it is my pleasure to work with the National Program Committee to provide guidelines and a strategic road map that will allow out chapters to effectively implement the 2014-2015 Programming Thrusts. We are dedicated to developing our future leaders through powerful and impactful programming.

It is in this spirit that we continue to forge and cultivate strategic partnerships that reinforce our core values and allow us to best serve our communities. This sustained civic engagement increases our visibility and viability as an organization, and augments a template of achievement for years to come. Our National Executive Board is a team of exceptional mothers who are resolute in developing dynamic and enriching initiatives to address issues related to children’s rights, leadership development, cultural awareness, financial literacy, recreation and philanthropic giving.

Program Thrusts are depicted on the pages that follow. CONGRATULATIONS on capturing the essence, the intent and the beauty of both the vision and the mission of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. We continue to embrace the power of our roles as mothers and parents in raising world leaders; Embracing the power of our cultural heritage; Effectively leveraging our power to create positive change in our communities; and Raise awareness of the organization in the community as parenting experts.

Outstanding examples of our 2014-2016 National

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EDUCATION: The power to learn and succeed.

Fostering leadership development, financial literacy and a commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math (STE[A]M).

Power to Make A Difference thru Leadership Development

Focus: Tweens/Teens, grades 6th through 12th Goal: Complete a minimum of four (4) Jacqueline Moore Bowles (JMB) Leadership Development Modules. “Communications and Public Speaking” module is required.

Resource: The Enhanced JMB 2013 Leadership Modules

Power to Make A Difference thru FINANCIAL LITERACY

Focus: Grades 3rd through 12th Goal: Complete a minimum of four (4) Jacqueline Moore Bowles (JMB) Leadership Development Modules. “Putting Some Aside” module/strategy is required.

Resource: Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated/Merrill Lynch; Investing Pays Off

Power to Make A Difference thru STE[A]M

Focus: Early Childhood - Age 2 thru 5th Grade Goal: Provide Simple, Educational and Fun activities that (at a minimum): Help youth to develop self-confidence around scientific/technical subject matters.

Expose and promote youth to pursue STE[A]M career fields.

Resource: e.g. capitalize on existing resources by partnering with Private, Non-Profit, and Public Entities.

CULTURAL: The power to understand and value our African American heritage…

Fostering a sense of unity, a better appreciation of our awesome history and our remarkable abilities

Power to Make A Difference thru Cultural Heritage

Focus: All Grade Groups/Chapter Wide Goal: Continue to address the Health Crises of the African American Family.

Continue to educate our youth on the value an importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

CIVIC/LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY: The power to unify and inspire change…

Fostering a better tomorrow for ALL children

Power to Make A Difference thru Legislative Advocacy

Focus: All Grade Groups/Chapter-Wide Goal: Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Collaboration: unite with CDF’s Advocacy That Works project joining our 10,000 voices and our “Power to Make A Difference” with CDF’s Freedom Schools program

Power to Make A Difference thru COMMUNITY SERVICE

Focus: Chapter-Wide Goal: Cradle to College Initiative “OUR CHILDREN’S KEEPER” Focus on community (non JJOA) children to become better prepared for the college admissions process and to think more broadly about their future career opportunities - i.e. Boys & Girls Club or ‘like’ organizations, Thompson Quintuplets, etc.)

Resource: Building on shared experiences and what works.

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CIVIC-LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY NIKKI FARRIOR

Eastern Region Program Chair

T

o legislate is to draft or enact laws. For example, “Congress must legislate strong new laws”. Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated welcomes the opportunity and accepts the responsibility to create a medium in which we teach our children the importance of legislative advocacy, by encouraging them to fully engage in legislative programs and activities. What is legislative advocacy?

Legislative advocacy refers to efforts to influence the introduction, enactment or modification of legislation. Through our partnership with The Children’s Defense Fund, our children and families are urged to take a stand, lend a hand and raise awareness on issues that directly impact and affect the nations children, our children.

Chapters are asked to participate in letter writing campaigns, visit local legislators, invite them to chapter meetings, and help

support local Freedom schools when possible. By participating in the legislative process our children’s voices will be heard letting them know their thoughts and ideas matter. We also support and encourage local voter registration drives. Led by our National Legislative Committee, increasing voter registration throughout our country will inspire and embolden our youth and foster continued participation in civic responsibilities. National program activities such as On The Hill Summit, continue to show Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated’s commitment to engaging our children in the legislative process.

Leaving a lasting legacy on the new laws that will be created, the new politicians that will legislate and a continued and recognizable voice in the legislative process is our fervent prayer.

“You really can change the world if you care enough.”

–Marian Wright Edelman r.

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bloomington normal, il central REGION On January 17th, 2016 our Teen and Pre-Teen group hosted “The Talk”, in collaboration with Illinois State University - Student NAACP Chapter where a panel of law enforcement representatives, including the Bloomington Chief of Police, talked candidly about interacting with officers and careers in law enforcement. The event was held during MLK weekend as a way to continue Dr. King’s legacy through community dialogue and inclusiveness.

The community support was overwhleming with 90 community members and local media in attendance. We are proud of our Mother Leslie Fair Clay who had a vision of bringing youth and law enforcement together to “talk”. Our children came prepared with thoughtful questions and built self-confidence asking questions in a public forum. We couldn’t be more pleased with the effort our mothers put into the planning and supporting a meaningful event like this that not only benefits our chlidren but the community at large.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ EASTERN REGION The JJAC Legislative Committee, along with Sandpiper Dre and Beacon Savannah, hosted a Legislative Roundtable-Breaking the Cradle to Prison Pipeline on Saturday, November 14th, 2016 at the Mays Landing Library. The panelists included NJ Senator James Whelan, Atlantic County Freeholder Ernest Coursey, Atlantic City Police Chief Henry White, Atlantic City Board of Education member Walter Johnson, and Atlantic City Councilman Kaleem Shabazz. The Chapter Teens introduced each panelist to the audience and Teen Advisor Dianna Fauntleroy served as the moderator. The discussion focused on issues facing our communities speifically gun violence and access to both affordable healthcare and a quality education. Earlier in the day the Beacons and Sandpipers led a separate discussion for the children of the Chapter on the U.S. Constitution and the process of making a bill a law. During the roundtable they had the opportunity to propose their own “bills” as resolutions to the issues.

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Burke-Fairfax, VA EASTERN REGION On January 9th, the Intermediate, Junior Teen, and Senior Teen groups participated in the NBC 4 Health and Fitness Expo at the Washington DC Convention Center. The NBC Health and Fitness Expo is an annual two-day event, hosted by the local NBC affiliate, which provides free health screenings and education, fitness classes, and nutritional guidance to the greater Washington DC community. Under the leadership of one of our BurkeFairfax chapter mothers, the children were trained to conduct vision acuity screenings, as well as screenings for glaucoma and related diseases. In service to the community, our children provided vision screening for at least 60 guests. Impressively, at the end of this activity, each participant demonstrated proficiency in independently screening visitors to our booth. The children also participated in several health related but fun activities, including CPR training, rock climbing, zumba, obstacle course completion, and enjoying lots of yummy and healthy foods.

Montgomery County, PA EASTERN REGION The National Thrust of civic engagement was emphasized during our 2015-2016 programming year to build leaders for tomorrow. The goal was to create developmentally appropriate activities that engage our children on how to effect social change. Each grade group learned how to use their sphere of influence to be impactful in bettering their communities through community service, political action, and galvanizing their strengths through mindfulness and collaboration. Our toddlers explored the historical Liberty Bell learning governmental history. The Golden Nuggets tackled homelessness through service by making snack bags and blankets to donate to a local shelter. The Precious Jewels utilized their words and knowledge in a “Think Tank”, tackling questions about world peace, United States presidential politics, local educational inequities and more. Our Crown Jewels participated in a Black Lives Matter Symposium investigating and developing strategies to forge more fruitful relationships with law enforcement for sustainable change.

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NASSAU COUNTY, NY EASTERN REGION On Monday, January 25, 2016, eleven Tweens and Teens of the Nassau County Chapter of Jack and Jill, Inc. participated in the Inauguration of the Nassau County District Attorney, Honorable Madeline Singas. Our Jacks and Jills arrived early at The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, New York and welcomed and greeted the more than 300 dignitaries, politicians and guests upon their arrival to the venue. They had an opportunity to engage with a number of the guests.

The District Attorney was grateful for our students’ participation and acknowledged them in her inaugural address.

NORTH JERSEY, NJ EASTERN REGION The North Jersey Chapter hosted a legislative program, on November 14, 2015 at Park Avenue School in Orange, New Jersey. The program, which included sister chapters and members of the community, revolved around the White House’s, My Brother’s Keeper and Educate Our Girls initiatives, with a focus on the legislative priorities of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.; healthcare, juvenile justice, gun violence and education. The special guest speaker was Khalilah M. Harris, the Deputy Director at the White House Initiatives on Educational Excellence for African Americans. Ms. Harris led an engaging and vibrant discussion on topics relating to education, parenting and legislative priorities. After Ms. Harris’ presentation and question and answer session, the program continued with the North Jersey Chapter members leading group level breakout sessions on legal awareness, the impact of voting, and creating a public service announcement supporting My Brother’s Keeper and Educate Our Girls.

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WESTCHESTER, NY EASTERN REGION For several years Westchester Chapter has supported the March of Dimes by raising money to support and participating in the March For Babies in the spring. For the 2015-2016 Program Year they are participating in yearlong initiatives to support this endeavor. The Senior Teens kicked off the chapter’s support of the March of Dimes during Premature Awareness Campaign by preparing care packages for parents of preemies. The teens came together to prepare the bags containing items to bring comfort to the new parents such as water bottles and books to read to their new baby. Since focus is typically on the new baby, the teens were happy to be able to provide a service to the parents of premature babies during what is a stressful time. The bags were donated to a the NICU ward of a local hospital.

WESTERN MARYLAND EASTERN REGION Our Pre-Teens and Teen Groups joined together in November 2015 to support and promote awareness of the March of Dimes Pematurity Awareness Month at the White House in Washington, DC. The children were stunningly arrayed in various shades of purple as they “went purple for preemies” to educate their fellow tour attendees on the serious problem of premature birth. When asked why they were wearing purple, they were able to speak articulately about the impact of long term health problems for babies as well as potential financial implications for their families. They encouraged people to participate in their communities upcoming March for Babies,all without prompts or cue cards as collateral is not allowed in the White House. They were so well received and proud of their outreach that we have implemented an Annual Purple Outing in November where they can spread the “gospel” of Prematurity Awareness in public places.

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ANCHORAGE, AK FAR WEST REGION The members of the Jack and Jill Anchorage Chapter have embraced the mission of the organization “the power to make a difference”. This year we contributed to making a difference by volunteering in several community service activities. The first volunteer activity involved creating care packages for the homeless. During this activity our youth packaged together small item such as hand warmers, toothbrushes, and snacks.

Next, our youth and mother members volunteered at the American Heart walk to help prompted awareness of heart disease. During the holiday season the entire chapter, including our dads, volunteered at Anchorage’s annual Thanksgiving Blessings, where our chaptered helped by bagging food, organizing food tables, helping people select their food items, passing out food, and carrying food for those who needed extra help. To finish off the 2015 year our youth volunteered as bell ringers for Salvation Army and sang Christmas carols to holiday shoppers.

OAKLAND BAY AREA, CA FAR WEST REGION Jack and Jill Oakland Bay Area hosted the Northern Area Work Day on September 26, 2015. It was a success and a fun-filled day at the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Emeryville. Our keynote speaker was the Honorable District Attorney Kamala Harris who encouraged us to understand how valuable our community service is in the effort of helping at risk youth. The AWD community service project for our Oakland Bay Area teens included providing new and used sporting equipment to our local Boys and Girls Club. They also participated in the oratorical contest and placed 2nd and 3rd place in Category I and 1st place in Category II. The day ended with an “old-fashioned” teen house party, held at the home of the OBAC president, Erica Dennings. This provided a networking event for the mothers from all participating chapters as well 52

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ORANGE COUNTY, CA FAR WEST REGION The Orange County Chapter, Groups 2 & 3, took a VIP tour of the Orange County Superior Court with the Honorable Judge Daphne Sykes Scott. Children and parents were able to get an up close and personal tour of the courthouse, learn about the judicial system and the law, and ask many questions. The children were given a behind the scenes look at daily activities at the Superior Court. They were able to visit the judge’s chambers and sit in an actual courtroom where they observed the actions of the court reporters and bailiffs. The children learned about the seal of California and its symbols.

They also saw the responsibilities of each member of the courtroom and an abbreviated version of how the judicial system works. Judge Scott baked homemade pastries for everyone to enjoy.

It was a very rewarding and educational experience for all involved!

PORTLAND WILLAMETTE VALLEY,OR FAR WEST REGION For MLK National Day of Service, our chapter participated in “Victory Beyond the Dream”, the 31st annual tribute to the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., presented by the World Arts Foundation, Inc. in Portland, Oregon.

After collecting donations for a local food bank, members engaged attendees who visited our exhibit booth educating them on the legacy of Dr. King. By special request, our children and teens opened the tribute with a bell-ringing ceremony taking place simultaneously across the country. Later they returned to the stage performing a dramatic recitation of The Creation, a poem by James Weldon Johnson, for which they received a standing ovation from more than 3000 attendees. Usually separated by grade group, it was an amazing experience for our kids to perform together for the first time.

This live broadcast is recognized as one of the finest community-based celebrations in the U.S.

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SAN JOSE, CA FAR WEST REGION On April 4, 2015, San Jose Chapter Group 3 through Group 5 children participated in a mock trial, assisted

by Santa Clara County Judge Shelyna V. Brown and Santa Clara County Assistant District Attorney (ADA), Kalila Patty. The children attended preparatory sessions prior to the event to gain some basic understanding of criminal procedure and elements of a trial.

Judge Brown and ADA Patty also spoke to the children about California Proposition 47, which provides some criminal offenders reduced penalties. The children learned how this significantly impacts African Americans in California who are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system. They also discussed Prop 47 as it applied to sentencing the defendants in their mock case.

Judge Brown also answered general questions about California’s criminal justice system, which helped children and parents better understand the complexity of our criminal justice system, the importance of voting and the power of legislation.

SEATTLE, WA FAR WEST REGION The Seattle chapter supports “The Power to Make a Difference” and the Cradle to College Initiative with our chapter-wide school supply donation drive, benefitting Wellspring Family Services.

Additionally, we hosted group activities for our children to understand the plight of the homeless children for whom we are collecting these school supplies.

Each chapter member is asked to donate supplies from a wish list, and we expect 100% participation! After our drive, we will deliver boxes full of school supplies so children served by Wellspring will be better prepared for the 2016-17 school year.

Seattle mothers invited Wellspring representatives to meet with Group 3 and 4 children to help them understand the many ways children can become homeless. They also explored what life would be like as homeless children: Where would they brush their teeth and bathe before school? Where would they sleep at night? It was a very powerful experience!

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TRI-VALLEY, CA FAR WEST REGION Kids Against Hunger packages highly nutritious, life-saving meals for starving and malnourished children and their families in developing countries and the United States. Tri-Valley’s Group II/III children and mothers were very touched by a video that Kids Against Hunger played explaining Haitian children’s need for healthy food. The group was motivated to make a difference and Group II/III scooped, measured and sealed meals for over 4,300 people! The meals provide a stable, nutritional base and consist of rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables and vitamin/mineral powder. The Group II/II children were given samples to try and thought it was delicious. Once the packages are shipped to their destination, all that is needed is boiling water to cook the meal. The activity has left a lasting impression on the children and they are proud they were able to help others in need.

CHARLESTON, SC MID-ATLANTIC REGION Charleston Chapter Teens & PreTeens hosted a Teen Summit on December 12, 2015. Over 200 teens from both Jack & Jill and community students from South & North Carolina gathered to address the issues of gun violence, social media, voting and quality education with local and state leaders. Included among the panelist was SC State Senator Marlon Kimpson (JJ Legacy). The students wrote and presented letters to the SC General Assembly voicing their concerns regarding the need for gun control and their fears of teen lives ending too soon due to the issue. The teens and pre-teens were able to solicit contributions and labor to assist with the event from The Royal Foundation and The Charleston (SC) Chapter of the Links, Inc. Always with an eye to the future, the moms organized a college fair on site which hosted approximately 15 HBCUs and 5 “traditional” colleges and universities.

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CHARLOTTE, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION Legislative Focus: 2016 is an important election year, and many of our teens will for the first time cast their vote in a general election.

Therefore, the Charlotte Chapter thought it was important for our Sr. Teens to have a very thorough explanation of the election process.

The NC Board of Elections staff worked with 21 of our teens to outline the details behind NC government and how an election works. They were given detailed descriptions of each office within each branch of the NC government. Once the lessons were complete, the teens participated in a mock election with general questions. One of the questions was would they ever run for office. I am proud to say that of the 21 teens, 16 of them answered that question with a “YES”. Maybe the next Barack Obama is currently a member of the Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill!

HAMPTON, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION Our amazing Mid-Atlantic Hampton Virginia Chapter is excited about our Presidential adventure. We are headed to the White House!

Approximately 125 members, family and friends will be traveling to Washington D.C. this spring for this unforgettable experience.

In 1791 the site for the White House was selected by President George Washington. After eight years of construction President John Adams and every President to follow have occupied the structure. The White House is both home of the President and a museum of American history.

Adhering to our organizational thrusts, our visit to the White House will provide for a social, educational and legislative experience. We will have a tangible opportunity to witness the grandeur of the White House and the historical significance of visiting the Cabinet and Situation room where legislative meetings and decision making take place. White House bound, we are excited to take on such an enriching opportunity!

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COLUMBUS, OH MID-WESTERN REGION As we seek to build our children into future leaders, having an understanding of the electoral process becomes increasingly valuable. The Ohio Primary is on March 15, 2016. To highlight this upcoming event, our Junior Teen group participated in a mock Primary Face-Off. A Red and Blue team represented opposite opinions on the issues of Gun Control, Marijuana Legalization, Minimum Wage Increases, and Immigration.

Each group took turns debating their opinion on these issues, while judges sat as moderators to decide the winners of the debate. After the debate our Junior Teens had the opportunity to join our Senior Teens for the “Leadership Series” where local legislator, Councilwoman Jaiza Paige, spoke about political leadership. The objectives of this event allowed our Junior Teens to participate in discussing issues affecting their community, while sharpening their public speaking and leadership skills.

DAYTON, OH MID-WESTERN REGION More than 150 books were purchased/ collected/donated by the Dayton Chapter for our Adopt-A-Classroom, 1st Graders at DECA Prep. We support the mission of DECA Prep to immerse prospective first generation college students in a personalized, rigorous elementary and character education curriculum to assure they will succeed in High School and College. Our Jack and Jill youth are pictured sorting books to be packed in bags donated by the USAF. These book bags (plus other surprises) were presented by the Dayton Chapter to the children as Christmas gifts in December. JJOADC will continue to work with the classroom to address the immediate needs of the students. This served as our JJ National Day of Service and aligns with the National Thrust: Community Service (Cradle to College Initiative). Our hope is that the “little ones” had plenty of time, on break, to read and discover mysteries and bed time stories through books!

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FLINT, MI MID-WESTERN REGION The Flint Chapter can testify to the power of a unified voice. In October 2015, the Flint Chapter Legislative Call to Action addressed lead contaminated water plaguing the city. The Teens and Pre-Teens participated in the call to action by writing to respective elected officials and government water management agencies. Understanding the devastating effects of lead, the youth pleaded for legislation requiring water safe and affordable for all. The group poignantly described the physical, emotional, and financial strain the contaminated water was placing on the health, education, family budgets, and recreational activities of friends and family.

Integrated into the discussion was the JMB module on Trust and Integrity. These future leaders remained actively engaged by attending town hall meetings, watching the mayoral debates, using social media to encourage signing of a White House petition and volunteering at water distributions. Clean water advocates, the Flint Chapter Teens and Pre-Teens are empowered to make a difference in the Flint Community.

LAKE SHORE, IL MID-WESTERN REGION The chapter took a legislative trip to the Illinois state capitol in Springfield to visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, Lincoln’s home, visited the Illinois State Capitol, and delivered written the letters for the Children’s Defense Fund Campaign to an elected official at the Illinois Capitol on February 27, 2015. The children wrote advocacy letters focused on the issue of health care for children and delivered them to Illinois State Senator Kwame Raoul after meeting with him. The chapter visited the Slave Auction and the Emancipation Proclamation exhibitions to experience history from an African American perspective. The chapter children engaged in a scavenger hunt through the museum to deepen the learning experience. The chapter was introduced to Jameson Jenkins life through learning about Jenkins’ escape from a slave state to Underground Railroad (UGRR) conductor to driving President Lincoln to the Great Western Depot where he delivered his famous farewell address.

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LOUISVILLE, KY MID-WESTERN REGION Becoming a Social Justice Advocate!

Our youth met on the campus of the University of Louisville (UofL) to engage in an interactive workshop on understanding various forms of oppression, and to learn strategies for being an advocate that ultimately led to them using their individual and collective voices to advocate against bullying and oppressive stereotypes that negatively impacts African American youth. Our youth learned how the system of oppression facilitates oppressive policies, legislation and actions. Our youth were able to engage in challenging discussions on the negative effects of bullying and stereotypical attitudes; and they engaged in discussions on how they can use their voices for empowerment and to be agents of change. The Louisville Chapter Legislative Advocacy Day was led by a UofL, Kent School of Social Work professor, and mother member. A video was produced highlighting our chapter’s legislative advocacy day.

WEST SUBURBAN CHICAGO, IL MID-WESTERN REGION The West Suburban Chicago Chapter of Jack & Jill partnered with the Willowbrook Corner to host our 2016 MLK Day of Service.

The Willowbrook Corner provides educational services to children and parents to meet the unique needs of families in unincorporated Willowbrook, IL. Our program, themed “Living the Dream of a Professional Athlete”, attracted over 150 excited children. We were honored to have the participation of former WNBA player Rushia Brown, former NBA player and Illinois great Daryl Thomas, and the Jesse White Tumblers.

The day included inspirational words from Professional athletes, basketball drills, a dance clinic, HBCU Sports Bingo games, and cookie decorations.

Wal-Mart, Nickelodeon, Bridge Professional Services, U.S. Architectural Glass and Metal, High Heels High Hope, and Finch and Associates sponsored our event. Due to their generosity, we were able to provide breakfast and l

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YPSILANTI, MI MID-WESTERN REGION The Ypsilanti Chapter and Canton Police Department collaborated to build relationships and trust through an activity called “Coco with a Cop”. The three hour activity involved all grade groups and parents. The children toured the fire station and learned ways to stay safe in public, how police dogs track down criminals and methods detectives use to gather evidence to solve cases. The children did a little investigating of their own at a mock crime scene. Parents were in a separate session and received tips on social media usage and participated in a simulation of crime scenes to learn how police officers have to quickly make use-of-force decisions. This activity proved to be an excellent opportunity for our children to interact with the police, see what they do and understand the role of law enforcement. Additionally, it provided the police an opportunity to see our children in a different light.

ARLINGTON, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Arlington teens held an “each one teach one” event with the 4th6th graders at Harvesting Hope Community Garden for a day of planting and harvesting to promote healthy living and community service. Harvest Hope is an Earth Kind community garden which uses all natural products to fertilize and to control pests. Harvest Hope grows healthy produce, helps to create food independence, and strengthens our community by bridging relationships between volunteers and the community at-large. In addition to planting and harvesting, our Jacks and Jills learned about planting, maintaining, and harvesting items in a natural environment. Our 2016 Beautillion beaus also participated in the event as a community service activity. A portion of all harvested food is donated to the Tarrant Area Food Bank. Through participation in this event, the children in Arlington demonstrated Making a Difference in the community.

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CLEAR LAKE BAY AREA, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION On November 14 our Jets, grades 6th-8th, supported March of Dimes Prematurity Awareness month with an activity that they themed “Blankets for Babies”. The activity kicked-off with a group discussion about Service & Sacrifice and the mission of the March of Dimes for Babies. They discussed ways that tweens can make a difference by bringing comfort to families with newborns in intensive care units. They made 16 “No Sew” fleece blankets. Each blanket had to meet the specifications outlined by the hospital neonatal nurses. The blankets were then delivered to the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The nurses draped the incubators in the NICU with blankets made by our tweens. The tweens were pleased that the blankets would go to support families during a difficult time. They received a very nice thank you letter from the hospital.

dfw MID-CITIES, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION In June of 2015 we were moved by the images of a 14 year old AfricanAmerican girl dressed only in a bikini being subdued by a McKinney Police Officer. Before and since, our young people have had something to say. They have looked for ways to share their point of view, ideas, and opinions. On 10/24/15 DFW Mid-Cities with the Greater Frisco chapter, presented “Operation Conversation: A Dialogue between Law Enforcement and Teens.” That’s right, a thoughtful dialogue as they seek solutions. This event was designed to give our teens an understanding of laws, the law enforcement perspective and “tools” for interacting with and responding to law enforcement. Panelists included a judge, current and former police personnel, area leadership and J&J teens. The local predominantly African-American church along with NBC 5 partnered in sponsorship for this interactive event.

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MISSOURI CITY- SUGAR LAND, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The votes are in!!! January 23, 2016, the Missouri City – Sugar Land (MCSL) Chapter introduced their Buttons and Bows (ages 2-5 years) to the voting process through song, dance, arts and crafts. This creative activity aligned with the Civic National Thrust.

Participants were taught the importance of their voices being heard by voting on a nursery rhyme to sing. “If You’re Happy and You Know It” won by a landslide! Exposure to the voting process through arts and crafts involved the creation of their very own voter registration card. After designing their cards the children headed to the voting poll, where they received a ballot and voted on their favorite snack. After casting their votes, they were issued the snack they voted for. What an opportunity for the MCSL Buttons and Bows to add their voices to the chorus that forms opinions and the basis for action!

NORTH TEXAS, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Our 2014-2016 Chapter theme, “Let’s take ACTION- Advocating for our children by teaching and inspiring them to become outstanding and noteworthy individuals” was exemplified by the “Mavericks” grade group, (4th – 6th), of the North Texas Chapter of Jack and Jill, Incorporated.

Host mothers held a mock voting session to share the importance of the legislative process and the history of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Our children had the distinct pleasure of meeting Councilman Marvin Franklin of City of Coppell, a city in the North Texas Chapter service area.

Councilman Franklin shared his views on the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the importance of the right to vote as the children participated in an interactive session of questions and answers pertaining to the legislative process. Councilman Marvin verbalized his support of the legislative initiatives focusing on the African-American community in leadership and advocacy. During the event, children leveraged their oratorical skills by presenting speeches on behalf of esteemed historical African-Americans. Our children shared their learnings with parents to take action and exercise the right to vote in the upcoming 2016 Presidential campaign.

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RED RIVER, LA SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Red River Chapter hosted a series of I AM Workshops for middle and high school youths.

These workshops focused on the empowerment of youth to make good decisions that will keep them safe and engage them in their rights and responsibilities as citizens.

Partnered with various community leaders, law enforcement officers, educators, artists, and youth organizations, the Red River Chapter created a “Speaking circle” where youth could learn, listen and be heard. Using theatrical presentations of real-life scenarios performed by Mahogany Ensemble theatre actors, each group talked, learned and identified “citizen” strategies. Culminating with a rousing Call to Action presented by Maxine Sarpy, The Red River Chapter sent attending youth off imbued with a clear sense of purpose, history and relatable strategies to walk, talk and live as citizens.

DAYTONA BEACH AREA, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Daytona Beach Area Chapter attended Children’s Day at the Capitol in Tallahassee, FL as special guests of Representative Dwayne Taylor. All cluster groups experienced an in-depth personalized living civics lesson. The morning started in the House of Representatives and a private tour of the chambers. Our chapter had the privilege of having lunch with Florida Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince in the Minority Chamber of the House. Justice Quince gave a brief talk, graciously answered questions, and posed for pictures.

A private tour of the Senate was followed with participation in a mock session. The group came up with a bill, debated the bill and voted on the bill. All children received a special coin from the President of the Senate. Our group attended a live House of Representatives session and toured the Florida Supreme Court after receiving special recognition from Rep. Taylor.

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FAYETTE COUNTY AREA, ga SOUTHEASTERN REGION According to FBI statistics, Atlanta ranks among the top 14 U.S. cities for domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST). Roughly 300 girls across Atlanta are lured into trafficking monthly. Empowered to make a difference, the Fayette County Area Chapter and the Fayette County Chapter, Junior States of America co-hosted “Our Children Are Not For Sale,” a town hall and call to action event on April 23, 2015 at the Fayette County Library.

The objective was to heighten local awareness of this horrific crime, educate the public on ways to identify signs of trafficked minors and to inspire the public to become more engaged with our youth to help prevent future victimization. Federal, state and local government officials participated in the event, discussing anti-trafficking laws and the need to establish additional support agencies to assist victims. Participants left with the tools needed to aid in stopping DMST one child at a time.

GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter was successful in receiving a $4,850 community grant to fund their 2016 MLK Day of Service project. With the project theme, “Education, Literacy and Empowerment for All Children”, the day was filled with creating a teen study room, assembling hygiene packages, featuring a painting activity of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the March on Washington, and serving lunch to the families at a local domestic violence shelter.

The teen room was furnished with furniture assembled by Dads and Teens. Education and literacy were the focus of filling the bookshelves with teen books, magazines, study preparatory guides, college resources, and games. Everyone was inspired and empowered with Jill Anna Smith presenting on the life, leadership, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The GFTL Chapter continues to demonstrate the “Power to Make A Difference through SERVICE and SERVING Our City in Pink & Blue!

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GREATER METROPOLITAN ATLANTA, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION Transformational. That was the spirit of the day, when the Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter (GMAC) organized a true transformation of a school in need. The Hope-Hill Elementary School, located in the historic Auburn Avenue community, is plagued with multiple socio-economic issues. This Title I school serves a predominately Black student population with 93% eligible for the free or reduced lunch program. Because the school lacks a dedicated play area and cramped cafeteria space, GMAC improved the student and teacher experience by creating an outdoor café space, an outdoor classroom area and play space.

Our children, teens, mothers and Big Jacks cleaned debris, planted flowers, built benches and installed a walkway to transform the school’s usable spaces. We also donated items for care packages from the teachers’ classroom wish lists. GMAC is gratified to have utilized our Power to Make a Difference in the lives of families in our community.

JACKSON, TN SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Jackson, TN Chapter eagerly embraced the Cradle to College initiative by unifying and inspiring change to foster a better tomorrow for all children. On February 21, 2015, we hosted the 2nd Annual Black Empowerment Symposium for youth in the community between the ages of 10-18. The Jackson, TN Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.’s Delta Academy & Gems partnered with us for this event where youth were educated, enlightened, and involved. Local professionals and leaders in our community engaged youth on a range of topics such as Effective Communication, Spiritual Living, and Safety in Using Social Media. The event culminated in a mock trial where the youth role-played as defendants, prosecutors, and jury members. This provided insight into the judicial system. Overall the event was a huge success and the Jackson, TN Chapter will continue to provide quality programing for the youth in the community SCOPE 2016

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PENSACOLA, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Pensacola Chapter held a “Hero’s in Our Community” event October 10, 2015 in the African American Historic community DeVilliers Square. This event was designed to create comfortable and positive interactions between law enforcement and our children. The honored guest at the event was our 1st African American Police Chief David Alexander. In spirit of the theme, all children came dressed in their favorite super hero costumes, engaged in “super hero” training, arts and crafts, explored police cars, and interacted with police officers. Chief Alexander read a story to the children, donning a superman shirt underneath his uniform. Our Chapter President Mrs. Corby Wilson, along with our Foundation Chair Mrs. Tia Robbins, was interviewed by our local Chanel 3 News.

Our event was well received in the community, hosting over 150 participants including children from the Pensacola Boys and Girls Club. Our event at “Super Hero Station” will be reaccuring.

SAVANNAH, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Savannah Chapter is dedicated to Jack and Jill of America Incorporated National Program Thrusts. We are fortunate to have a Historically Black University in the City of Savannah and we support the Cradle to College thrust by participating in Savannah State University’s “Open Campus Day.” This event afforded the Jack and Jillers an opportunity to experience the college campus.

They toured the campus and met with current students and faculty to discuss SSU’s educational offerings.

In addition, Savannah chapter’s Jack and Jiller’s collaborated with the Savannah Tree Foundation for “Campus Beautification Day.” Mother’s, Father’s and Jack and Jiller’s learned the importance of maintaining trees. They raked, pulled weeds and had an opportunity to plant new trees on the beautiful campus of Savannah State University.

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TUSCALOOSA, AL SOUTHEASTERN REGION Being sensitive to today’s national issues, the Tuscaloosa Chapter embraced the “Power to Make a Difference” by organizing our first community forum.

The forum entitled, “Our Children Matter”, was a focused discussion addressing ways to keep our children safe in the wake of police brutality and racial profiling. The riveting discussion was led by a panel of Tuscaloosa County’s community leaders, including the Chief of Police, Steve Anderson. The audience was comprised of individuals and families within the community.

It was held at Central, a predominantly African American High School.

Additionally, we set up a tent at Stillman College’s (an HBCU) homecoming to disseminate pamphlets on individual rights and what to do when stopped by the police. Attendees were provided information by criminal attorney, Robert Turner, husband to one of our chapter moms.

Both events were overwhelming successes as our primary objective was to educate our community our individual rights!

WILLIAMSON COUNTY AREA, TN SOUTHEASTERN REGION On December 12, 2015, the Williamson County Area Chapter of Jack and Jill hosted its “Brunch with Santa” Christmas Celebration. This special event welcomed WCAC families, friends, and community at New Hope Academy, the chapter’s local charity committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities to some low income families. The WCAC children, along with the children of New Hope Academy, sat with Santa as they expressed their special wish list for Christmas. The children enjoyed the arts and crafts stations, which included personalized Christmas ornaments and creating special hot chocolate reindeer treats. In the spirit of giving, WCAC members donated NHC with some of the school’s desired necessities. Filled with excitement, WCAC’s youth beamed with joy as the NHA children opened all of their gifts. Our children really exemplified the “Power of Making a Difference” and demonstrating Let’s Live, Let’s Work, Let’s Play Together is beyond a song/motto, it’s an action.

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Chapter Programming 2016

community service CELESTE ADAMS

Mid-Western Region Program Chair

J

ack and Jill of America embraces the fact that “we are our children’s keeper” and as such, we have a commitment “to seek for all children the same advantages which we desire for our own”. Community Service has been a pillar of our organization since its inception. All throughout the Jack and Jill nation, we are powering to make a difference in the lives of children through our partnerships with the Children’s Defense Fund, March of Dimes, Boys & Girls Club of America, the Cradle to College Initiative and the numerous charities and organizations that the local chapters have nurtured relationships with over the years.

Our Jack and Jill community service work involves our children taking on active roles in the process. We are inspired by their willingness to work on behalf of others,

their desire to help those less fortunate and the confidence in their belief, that they have the power to impact change. As parents, we are comforted to see how they have grown to value the importance of giving back to the community and we are proud to be able to reward their efforts with both the Jack and Jill Youth Service Recognition Awards and the Presidential Volunteer Service Awards.

Service was taken to a different level during the 2015-2016 program year. Members embrace the challenge, understanding that the path to self-sufficiency is the path to a quality life.

Be encouraged as you read about all of the wonderful acts of service taking place throughout Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated!

“Not everybody can be famous. But everybody can be great, because greatness is determined by service.”

–Martin Luther King Jr.

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DES MOINES, IA CENTRAL REGION As 2015 drew to a close love, family and giving warmed the hearts of both big and small as the Des Moines chapter gathered for its annual holiday celebration. Mothers, fathers, children, associates and prospective families were present to celebrate each other and join in on some of the season’s festivities.

The children/teens assembled care packages filled with snacks, gifts, messages of gratitude, games and other touches of home that were shipped to our US Troops overseas. Following the service project we honored our active Servicemen/women, and Veterans of the chapter for their service and sacrifice.

DSMJJOA was also very blessed to have had the opportunity to offer support to a family in need within the community during the holidays. Gift cards, clothing, presents and other essentials were presented to the deserving family. The afternoon was made complete with delicious food, games and gifts for all the children.

EAST ST. LOUIS, IL CENTRAL REGION The East St. Louis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. takes family security as a very serious initiative.

We teach our young men that Family is sacred and should never be harmed. This is why our chapter, spearheaded by our teens, has chosen to donate to the Violence Prevention Center of Southwestern Illinois. Community service is key in their development. Our young men, from the youngest to the Seniors, took time out of their Saturday to come together to gather collections. Safety in the home is to be cherished, and the Violence Prevention Center provides a safe place for those in need. Our teens and youth chose to provide snacks, juices, waters, and movie. These extras are not high on the priority list for someone seeking a new beginning, but they might help in a moment of despair to lighten a load for a moment of peace.

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LITTLE ROCK, AR CENTRAL REGION Heart-filled and dedicated, are words you think of when you think of the Greater Little Rock Chapter of Jack and Jill. The mothers and children of the Greater Little Rock Chapter have instilled what the true meaning of giving back to the community entails. The Kid Power and Jammin Junior’s entertained, planted flowers, and decorated cards. These activities left the patrons of the Millennium Adult Daycare of Little Rock, Arkansas in smiles. The Greater Little Rock Chapter is no stranger to service. The Explorer and Jammin Junior’s in collaboration with the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center created care packages for the homeless in December. The Busy Bees also committed to community outreach by donating toys to the Arkansas Children’s Hospital. The Teens served hot meals to the city residents at a soup kitchen. These community service efforts have definitely shown “The Power to Make a Difference”.

GREATER PEORIA, IL CENTRAL REGION The Greater Peoria Illinois Chapter wants your gently used jeans! In conjunction with the national Teens for Jeans campaign sponsored by DoSomething.org, we partnered with schools and businesses in the community to collect jeans for those locally who are homeless.

Over one million youth experience homelessness each year, and one of the most requested items by them is jeans. This initiative involved the entire chapter. Our pre-K thru second graders helped spread the word to their friends and counted jeans. Grades 3-5 wrote thank you notes to participating businesses. Coordination of jean pick up with the schools and businesses was done by grades 6–8. Our 9th-12th graders led the way with advertising the campaign in print and social media, and coordinating efforts among chapter members. The Fathers’ Auxiliary picked up jeans from our community partners.

To date, we have collected over 600 pairs of jeans.

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ALEXANDRIA- MT VERNON, VA EASTERN REGION In 2016, the Alexandria-Mount Vernon Chapter celebrates the legacy and accomplishments of our Chapter’s 50 years of service reaffirming our commitment to make a difference in lives of children in Northern Virginia. Our ongoing partnership with the Boys & Girls Club Greater Washington, Dunbar Alexandria-Olympic Branch, remains a vital aspect of our service to the community. Our engagement with the club includes: financial sponsorship of their afterschool program to provide for snacks for participating youth, support of their Thanksgiving Dinner where we served a lovely dinner and enjoyed the warmth of one another, attendance at their Christmas Program where we witnessed the talents of the young performers and assisted with gift distribution in Santa’s Gift Shop, and our literacy initiative as we build the Carole Robertson Reading Corner. The Alexandria-Mount Vernon Chapter continues to make a difference in the lives of the youth in and around Alexandria Virginia.

BALTIMORE, MD EASTERN REGION On Monday, January 18, 2016, the Baltimore Chapter of Jack & Jill of America participated in the National Day of Service.

All ages were represented for this morning of community service, as forty-six children, twenty-five moms, and 5 dads gathered to create care packages for Sarah’s Hope Emergency Shelter for Women & Children.

Sarah’s Hope provides immediate stabilization to homeless families and strives to preserve the family unit by helping families to regain permanent housing. The children created personalized tags for the care packages and watched Dr. King’s famous “I have a Dream” speech from the 1963 March on Washington. Following the speech, the chapter worked together making care packages which included self-care items including shampoo, conditioner, lotion and toothpaste.

The teens helped the youngest children tie the bows on each of the gift bags. It was a great morning of fellowship, reflection and service for the entire Baltimore chapter.

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BERGEN-PASSAIC, NJ EASTERN REGION On Monday January 18, 2016, the Metropolitan Cluster celebrated MLK Day of Service at the YMCA in Newark, New Jersey. In partnership with the Cluster, the Bergen-Passaic Chapter adopted an 8th floor room, decorating it with artwork, linen, comforter and an area rug.

In addition to making financial donation to families residing at the YMCA; we distributed gently used clothing and created snack and toiletry baskets with Jack & Jill messages.

In another event benefitting the St. Paul Emergency Men’s Shelter in Paterson, N.J., the BergenPassaic Chapter assembled hearty bagged lunches containing sandwiches, fruit, water, deserts, and a personalized heartfelt note from our children.

BROOKLYN, NY EASTERN REGION September is always a magical time of year for the Brooklyn Chapter.

It’s a time where we are able to affirm our position as a meaningful resource for our community and the world. This year, our Junior Teens opened our September Event commemorating the legacy of Carole Robertson by reminding us to positively impact social justice, civil rights, and racial harmony.

After the presentation the chapter collaborated with Build-A-Bike. Our dads supported the age groups that worked in teams to build bicycles from scratch, which were then donated to children in the community. The chapter ended the day with a nostalgic catalog of old-school games that delighted our children. Our mothers strengthened their relationships with each other by sharing stories of their summer trysts and autumn dreams, current dads embraced and guided new dads, and the children were reminded of the benefits of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

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BUFFALO, NY EASTERN REGION Buffalo chapter conducted a chapter wide activity that included all age groups as well as moms. On January 18, 2016 we purchased food and created lunch bags for the homeless and needy in our community. Chapter moms each contributed $10.00 and we purchased sandwich meat , bread, fruit, water and snacks.

The children assembled the sandwiches and packed the lunch bags at one of our community based organizations. After the bags were completed we drove out into the community and distributed the bags to those in need. In all we created 97 lunch bags. During distribution and after, it was a great time to speak to our children about those who are less fortunate and how each member of the community can be of service to others. We look forward to conducting this activity again in the spring and making it a recurring component in our chapter.

BURLINGTON-WILLINGBORO, NJ EASTERN REGION The Burlington-Willingboro Chapter’s Brothers and Sisters Group, children in third to fifth grade, conducted their Civic Community Service Activity on Saturday, November 14, 2015, at the ShopRite of Burlington, NJ. On this day, Civic stood for Caring, Integrity, Volunteerism, Inclusive and Community. The group of thirteen children learned the importance of supporting those who needs are greater than theirs while also learning how to budget and eat healthy. The children were divided into three teams and given a grocery list, budget and specific breakfast, lunch and dinner foods to purchase.

Afterwards, the food was placed into three personalized messaged and decorated boxes, and donated to a local single young mother who is having difficulty caring for her four children.

Our children were delighted to help a family in need and the receiving family was extremely appreciative. This creatively loaded activity was a joyful experience for everyone involved.

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CHESTER COUNTY, PA EASTERN REGION Chester County held a Hunger Banquet to highlight the issues of hunger andpoverty in our nation. 130+ attendees randomly selected a meal ticket upon arrival. Tickets represented high, middle and low income groups based on current poverty statistics.

Our Speaker Cheryl Miles discussed the mission of Bridges of Hope (to assist single mothers, experiencing homelessness to secure permanent housing, stability and access to resources in their community) and what we can do to help. Our children spoke about the experience and their feelings of what it was like to not have enough to eat or having more than enough and knowing that others are still hungry.

This event challenged us to use our Power to Make a Difference in the fight against poverty and food insecurity. We took the first step with a donation of $500 to the Chester County food bank and Bridges of Hope.

GREATER ESSEX COUNTY, NJ EASTERN REGION September is always a magical time of year for the Brooklyn Chapter. It’s a time where we are able to affirm our position as a meaningful resource for our community and the world. This year, our Junior Teens opened our September Event commemorating the legacy of Carole Robertson by reminding us to positively impact social justice, civil rights, and racial harmony.

After the presentation the chapter collaborated with Build-A-Bike. Our dads supported the age groups that worked in teams to build bicycles from scratch, which were then donated to children in the community. The chapter ended the day with a nostalgic catalog of old-school games that delighted our children. Our mothers strengthened their relationships with each other by sharing stories of their summer trysts and autumn dreams, current dads embraced and guided new dads, and the children were reminded of the benefits of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

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MID-HUDSON VALLEY, NY EASTERN REGION The Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter achieved their most successful fundraiser to date during their Friends of Monique Fundraiser.

Over $17,000 was raised in memory of Monique Williams, a deceased member who lost her battle with Leukemia at the age of 15. Over 200 donations were made and one-third of the proceeds were donated to Jack and Jill Foundation. Eighty-six chapter members, friends and family, including members of the Williams family, participated in the annual Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk on November 7, 2015. Our efforts resulted in the Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter earning the Top Youth Team Award for both our contribution and participation. By coming together as a team, we helped shine a light on Monique and all those fighting the courageous battle against blood cancers. Special thanks to The Pin Man of Tulsa, Oklahoma whose generous sponsorship branded the MHV Chapter during the Light the Night Walk.

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ EASTERN REGION The children from The Commanders Group, which represents MCJJ 3rd-5th graders, had a unique volunteer experience at the Table of Hope, a community soup kitchen in Morristown, New Jersey. The children learned the true meaning of giving back by acting as volunteer hosts and serving hot, nutritious meals to the homeless and underserved in our community. The experience engendered feelings of pride and self-worth within our children. They not only learned that MCJJ actively serves our community, but also that we, as community leaders, regardless of our age, have a responsibility to give back, while demonstrating compassion and respect for those who are less fortunate. The Commanders’ day of service concluded with them donating gift cards and warm weather items to Bethel AME Church.

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NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DE EASTERN REGION The New Castle County Chapter of Jack and Jill demonstrated the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Everybody can be great... because anybody can serve.” Our chapter visited the Ministry of Caring Childcare Center on his birthday to combat hunger and discuss the importance of giving back.

Mr. Eugene Young, a former NCC JNJ Teen Graduate, shared what he learned from the community service projects he participated in as a child and applied it to his role as advocacy director at Delaware’s Center for Justice. The mayoral candidate’s speech was a great introduction for the work we embarked on. Moms, Associates, Father’s Auxiliary, Teens, Tweens, and children stuffed “Backpacks of shelf-stable food, beverages, mittens, socks and literacy materials. Our chapter stuffed 570 “Backpacks of Love” for those in need. Finally, the Senior Teens traveled to Emmanuel Dining Room to feed lunch to the homeless.

PITTSBURGH, PA EASTERN REGION For Founders Day and in celebration of Martin Luther King’s Legacy, the Pittsburgh Chapter had an all chapter family event at the Ronald McDonald House associated with Childrens’ Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Our service activity included cooking lunch for sixty families staying at the Ronald McDonald House. Our chapter came together to make a completely healthconscience meal. Our adults and teen group were responsible for preparation and actually cooking the hot food items. Our Talented Turrentines and Steel Curtain Kids were accountable for salad prep and serving. Our Curious Crawfords and Delany Darlings created two types of trail mix, one with nuts and gluten and another version that was nut and gluten free. Many families living at the Ronald McDonald House were blessed by our service. Our group was blessed as well. It was a wonderful experience and a great way to honor the legacy of our founders and Dr. King.

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QUEENS, NY EASTERN REGION The Queens Chapter’s MLK Day of Service was a Community Resource Fair held in collaboration with several sororities, fraternities and community based organizations. This event provided attendees with information regarding available resources and services within our community. The event included an oratorical presentation for Junior and Senior high school students from Jack and Jill and members of the community. Our Nursery, Primary and Intermediate children participated in arts and crafts activities with children from our community while the Queens teens supervised.

The Queens Chapter donated snacks for the attendees and collected canned goods for the Aids Center of Queens. This was a chapter wide activity that included Mothers, Dads, teens, children and Associates. In addition, to the Resource Fair, we participated in the Eastern Region MLK Day of Service at the Newark YWCA. We contributed the furnishings for a room including full linen supplies and artwork.

ROCHESTER, NY EASTERN REGION Continuing a five year tradition, the Rochester, NY Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. children, teens and families volunteered at the Foodlink food bank in January.

Rochester remains the fifth poorest city in the United States among the top 75 metropolitan areas. With an overall poverty rate of 33.8 percent, access to food is a community issue. Foodlink distributes food using a network of human service agencies, serves meals and offers food related programs to the residents of Rochester and the surrounding counties. Working and bonding as a team, our members unpacked, selected by condition and sorted by category bulk food for distribution to local residents in need. The children enjoyed placing items on the conveyor belt and sorting the items by category. This activity embodies the theme The Power to Make a Difference.

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SOUTHERN MARYLAND EASTERN REGION The Southern Maryland Chapter has gotten off to a busy start. The Middle Schoolers took a trip to Washington, DC to visit the U.S. Capitol. The guided tour included a history review, and the group were able to see where President Obama was inaugurated and delivered his State of the Union message. During Christmas, the chapter donated toys and books for Toys for Tots to help spread cheer for those less fortunate. The Senior teens participated in the Stray Boots Scavenger Hunt in the Georgetown area of Washington; D.C. Stray Boots is a half walking tour, half scavenger hunt that challenges players to find sites, answer questions, and take silly photos from the convenience of their cell phone. Lastly cleaning the chapter’s adopted road is always a family affair and another way to give back to the community.

STAMFORD-NORWALK, CT EASTERN REGION In January, our Merrymakers (1-3 grade) and Jacils (4-5 grade), visited a local charity, Inspirica, to participate in a community service activity. Inspirica has recently launched a program for homeless mothers of children under 5 to provide school readiness and parenting skills training. Inspirica has asked local groups to support the program by making healthy snacks, breakfast and lunches for participants. Our children received a presentation of the purpose and goals of the program from the Director and then rolled up their sleeves to cook. We prepared breakfast burritos and blueberry muffins. A great time was had by all!

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SUFFOLK county, NY EASTERN REGION Suffolk County continues to answer one of life’s most persistent and urgent questions posed by Dr. Martin Luther King, “What are we doing for others knowing that the time is always right to do what is right?” Community service has been the hallmark of our program as evidenced by the numerous impactful events championed by our chapter as well as each age group. Our 10 to 12 year-old children served a three course meal to children of similar age at the Tri-Community & Youth Agency (Tri CYA). For the past 30 years, Tri CYA has been providing a broad range of educational, social and advocacy support for children in the local community.

Our children maximize every opportunity to support the 3 National Programming Thrusts hence they also shared their love for education by reading poetry to the children. Tri CYA children enjoyed a delicious meal while being intellectually stimulated.

WASHINGTON, DC EASTERN REGION In celebration of MLK Day of Service the Washington, DC Chapter came together to participate in our 2nd Annual Sandwich Palozza! Every age group participated in preparing bagged lunches for the clients of Martha’s Table, a non-profit which feeds the homeless community in Washington, DC. With crayons and markers in hand, our little ones decorated the lunch bags with beautiful, vibrant artwork. Our older kids and parents worked shoulder to shoulder at work stations making sandwiches to complete the balanced lunches which included fruit and a sweet treat. This year the Washington, DC Chapter produced an astounding 1,356 prepared lunches! In addition to the lunches, we also donated 2 lbs of cheese and 4 lbs of deli meat to Martha’s Table. The lunches were deliverd to Martha’s Table, then loaded onto their meal trucks and distributed to homeless residence through out the city SCOPE 2016

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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA FAR WEST REGION This year the Contra Costa County Chapter has committed to handson community service.

Early in the program year, Group I collected toys and gifts for Shelter, Inc of Contra Costa, a community organization committed to preventing homelessness. As part of the Family Volunteer Day Community Service Project, chapter mothers, fathers, and children volunteered at the Happy Lot Farm and Garden, a beacon of hope and optimism for inner-city Richmond, California; they worked on maintenance and beautification. Our Group V teens dedicated their time to serve as conservationists, working to rid the San Francisco Bay coast of non-native, invasive species that threaten the habitat.

Our chapter programing has inspired our children to make a difference in the lives of those around them by taking an active stand on principles they care deeply about and to take action to alleviate problems that plague our communities.

GREATER VALLEJO, CA FAR WEST REGION On December 18, 2015, GVJJ Groups 1, 2 and 3 volunteered at the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County. We arrived early in the morning with several non-perishable food items to donate to the Food Bank and then immediately began sorting and bagging produce for needy families. It was wonderful to see the older children take on leadership roles as they helped the younger children package oranges.

GVJJ children were determined to make sure that each package was filled with quality fruit. In just two hours, GVJJ had packaged almost two tons of fruit. In addition to their community service project, GVJJ’s Groups 1, 2, and 3 children made holiday cards for Safyre Terry, an 8-year old who was severely burned in a fire that took the lives of her father and siblings. She had requested, via social media, handmade Christmas cards to put on her Christmas tree.

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INLAND EMPIRE, CA FAR WEST REGION Teens Selflessly Serve Coachella Homeless In preparation for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, the incredible teens of the Inland Empire Chapter reflected on their own Power to Make a Difference by literally rolling up their sleeves and partnering with the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission to prep meals for more than 3,000 homeless families. Serving nearly 9,000 visitors monthly, the CVRM provides more than 150 families with groceries each week and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner to needy families each day. In partnership with the mission, the teens worked together to prep shredded turkey, brussel sprouts, and stuffing for the holiday dinner. In addition to food preparation, the group also organized the kitchen’s pantry, served lunch to residents, and assisted with the cleaning of the facility. Through this effort, our teens truly demonstrated the value of Jack and Jill of America at the local level and solidified their commitment to community service!

SAN FRANCISO, CA FAR WEST REGION Group 3 from the San Francisco Chapter has had innovative programming in the category of Community Service. In addition to volunteering at the San Francisco Food Bank, Group 3 has taken a private tour of the National Headquarters for Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) in San Rafael, California. GDB prepares guide dogs to serve and empower individuals who are blind. The facility is a beautiful space for human-dog co-habitation and our group 3 participants saw the whole process: from the place where the puppies are born and cared for, to the area where dogs are trained. People from around the world live at the Guide Dogs residence hall while they’re trained with their new canine companions and our members observed one of these sessions too.

It was an eye-opening and educational experience and taught about making a difference for those with needs. They plan to make this visit a tradition.

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CHESAPEAKE, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION Skate and Donate-The aim of the activity is to give the children a venue for fun while concurrently reinforcing the importance of “giving” to others. The children were asked to bring canned and/ or nonperishable items to donate.

They received an aerobic workout as they race around the skating rink. At the end of the activity, they enjoyed a healthy snack and used their artistic talent and creativity to personalize greeting cards with notes of encouragement to include with the donation. We hope that this activity will help the children to understand how their food donations no matter how big or small will help to fight hunger. The items were then packaged and donated to the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia.

GREENVILLE, SC MID-ATLANTIC REGION On December 12th all age groups of the Greenville Chapter came together to provide community service to a family in need. A family of seven was selected through the Greenville County School’s program called Community in Schools.

Money was raised by each age group and Christmas gifts were purchased from a wish list provided by the family. On December 12th all age groups were represented and participated in the organizing and wrapping of the gifts that were to be presented to the family. The kids split up into groups and the teens helped the younger kids learn how to wrap and to put things into appropriate boxes. The children learned the importance of giving back, being of service to others and how their donations would be dispersed. Because of these efforts a very large family was able to have a Merry Christmas.

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JAMES RIVER, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION Food insecurity is an epidemic in this country, especially among brown, urban populations. The James River Virginia Chapter has focused its community service efforts on activities and organizations that fight food insecurity in the Richmond community. In late fall, the children visited Shalom Farms. Shalom’s mission is to provide fresh food to those in need. It provides food to area food banks and meal programs; facilitates pop-up markets in food deserts; provides food for a weekly prescription produce plan with the local hospital. During our visit, the Shalom staff educated the children on how the farm worked and the different types of vegetables and fruits it grows. After an informative tour, the children (and mothers) had the opportunity to harvest peppers and clear a field. It was difficult, but the children showed initiative and teamwork. It was a chapter-wide activity that included children from 2 - 17; and it was wonderful to watch the older children take the lead and guide their younger counterparts. Although it was hard work, it was an experience everyone really enjoyed. The children were immediately able to see the fruits of their labor and understand that someone will eat because of the work they completed.

MIDLOTHIAN, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION On November 7, 2015, the Pacesetters of the Midlothian, Virginia chapter participated in a service-based project with Tricycle Gardens, a nonprofit organization with a mission to grow healthy food and to establish a local food system in our communities. The children helped with planting in the garden and they pulled weeds and shoveled mulch to prepare for a new garden. The children also assisted with the cleaning efforts in preparation for an upcoming event sponsored by the Tricycle Gardens.

By bringing agriculture to urban areas, Tricycle Gardens’ goal is to improve the environmental landscape, strengthen the ecosystems and provide education and access to healthy food for the Richmond area neighborhoods. The children learned the importance of providing healthy food options to our community and how the urban gardens can transform the health and well-being of our communities now and in the future.

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NORFOLK, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Norfolk Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. volunteered with The Ronald McDonald House Comfort Food Program in observance of Martin Luther King Day. RMHC of Norfolk is part of a global network of houses that provide a “home-away-fromhome” for millions of families so they can stay close by their hospitalized child. The Ronald McDonald House offers a place to call home at little or no cost so families can afford the best care, regardless of location. The program allows families to stay together, helping their children heal faster and cope better. The Norfolk Chapter prepared and served hot breakfast and dinner for the families staying in the Ronald McDonald House. The chapter Jacks and Jills also assisted by writing over 100 thank-you notes for the donors. We’re excited about this opportunity and are planning to provide more “comfort” to the House again next year!

ORANGEBURG, SC MID-ATLANTIC REGION Several times during the year, Orangeburg chapter members and children assisted Greater Faith Baptist Church in serving in their weekend soup kitchen. From helping to set up, to serving the community members who stopped by for a hot meal, the children gained great knowledge about service and giving back. As a part of the MLK Day of Service, chapter members donated paper products, and the children helped to shelve the items in the church’s pantry. Church members were very grateful for the donation and for the involvement of the children. It was with great pride and gratitude that the mothers along with the children served the members of the community.

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CITY OF LAKES, MN MID-WESTERN REGION City of Lakes partnered with Second Harvest Heartland Food Bank outside of Minneapolis, in a chapter-wide community service activity.

Second Harvest is a member of Feeding America, a network of 200+ food banks around the U.S. that is striving to end hunger through community partnerships. In 2015, Second Harvest delivered more than 77 million meals to over 1,000 food banks and partner organizations in Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Their goal is about making families whole again, so that children have the food they need to learn in school. COL moms, kids, and dads joined Second Harvest in packing 4,692 pounds of potatoes and 1,578 pounds of cereal. This translated to 6,270 pounds of food in total, or 5,225 meals. Through our donation of time and effort, COL was able to create 69 meals for 76 people. We all had a great time learning and serving in our community. 

DETROIT, MI MID-WESTERN REGION The Detroit Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated continues to impress upon its children the importance of fulfilling their civic duty through active service. Recognizing that there are many women and children in the city of Detroit who do not have the protection of a warm home, our Group 5 children engaged in an afternoon of service in December 2015. They worked collaboratively to make no-sew blankets for donation to Cass Community Social Services (CCSS), a local organization that maintains warming centers for women and children throughout the city of Detroit. After the activity, one of the hosting children travelled to the CCSS headquarters where the blankets and a case of hand warmers were dropped off to be disseminated to warming centers around the city. It is our hope that the warmth of the blankets will be an expression of love to a child in need.

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GARY, IN MID-WESTERN REGION On January 16, 2016, for our “MLK Day of Service,” groups 3-5 and chapter moms performed community service at the Northwest Indiana Community Food Bank. The younger members and mothers participated in an assembly line production of food boxes to be delivered to elderly clients. Each completed box consisted of dry and canned goods and weighed 30 pounds each when finished.

The teens assisted in organizing the massive warehouse of donated products by moving boxes physically and with some machine assistance. The group was educated on the great need this organization fulfills. We also learned how much planning, work and effort is required behind the scenes for a successful distribution of goods on a large scale.

Thereafter, group 5 attended a play on the culture and history of “doo wop” in the NWI area.

Groups 2 -5 and moms went roller skating. What a day!

GREATER LANSING, MI MID-WESTERN REGION On January 18, 2016, Martin Luther King Jr Day of Service, the Greater Lansing Chapter of Jack and Jill Inc., answered “ The Call To Action”, for the City of Flint Michigan.

The chapter issued, “The Capital City Water Challenge”.

Greater Lansing children wanted Flint to know he capital city cares!

Greater Lansing. collaborated with the Jack and Jill Flint Chapter, to move the water drive forward. The Lansing community was educated about the water problem in Flint, health consequences, legislative issues by the use of handouts and educational discussions.

People of all ages realized the significance of clean water for daily life. Water was collected for 2 weeks, taken to the city of Flint, where chapter members went door to door distributing water in the most affected areas. This powerful experience demonstrated to the community and our entire chapter that #FLINTLIVESMATTER, and the value of clean water.

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MILWAUKEE, WI MID-WESTERN REGION Members of the Milwaukee Chapter of Jack and Jill of America braved sub-zero temperatures recently in a volunteer effort to help those in need of warm coats, hats and mittens. Robyn’s Nest, a donation center that offers new and gently used clothing to families within the foster care system, was the site of this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. The chapter’s annual “Day On, Not a Day Off” community service activity, has grown each year with this year being the best turn out ever with more than three dozen volunteers. “I was so impressed with the family component of it all,” said Lona Long Velasco, community resource specialist for Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Community Services. “The dads were there, the moms were there and the children were there. It was the first time we had volunteers like that,” said Velasco, who runs the center. “It was amazing. It touched my heart a lot and gave me hope seeing wonderful families like this coming together on such an important remembrance day.” Along with their volunteer support of sorting and organizing donated clothing items for infants to adults, members of the chapter also donated over seventy needed hygiene products including, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion and ChapStick.

MOTOR CITY, MI MID-WESTERN REGION The Motor City Chapter made the MLK Day of Service a day on and not a day off by serving the residents and clients of Cass Community Social Services. From our youngest grade group to our teens and parents, all hands were on deck! Each grade group was asked to donate specific toiletry items. The Explorers packed toiletry bags while the older children and parents cleaned the pantry and kitchen, and prepared food to serve to the Cass Community clients for dinner. The afternoon ended with the Motor City children presenting a program honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King. The children signed a “I Have a Dream” Pledge and recited excerpts from Dr. King’s prolific speeches and letters. Our prospective mothers and their families were invited to participate in this fulfilling day of service. They saw firsthand that Motor City Chapter cares for and serves its community.

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NORTH OAKLAND/MACOMB, MI MID-WESTERN REGION The North Oakland/Macomb Chapter’s (NOM) families gathered to volunteer and support its community partner, the Pontiac Public Library, at a fun filled winter festival hosted for the city’s families on December 5, 2015. NOM’s teens served lunch to Pontiac residents, read books to children during a special “NOM Story Time” and took holiday photos of the youth with Santa Claus. NOM’s tweens performed a soulful version of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas much to everyone’s delight. The younger Grade Groups contributed to the event by making beautiful ornaments for a Christmas tree they donated to the library. In keeping with Jack and Jill’s commitment to early childhood literacy, NOM’s families donated books to the children that attended and also helped them write letters to Santa. The library staff was grateful for NOM’s support and it was rewarding that the partnership enabled a day of holiday cheer and sharing by all.

TOLEDO, OH MID-WESTERN REGION In Toledo, OH, nearly 2300 individuals are homeless. Food for Thought (FFT) is a non-profit organization committed to reducing the lack of access to food. On January 15, The Toledo Chapter of Jack and Jill, partnered with FFT for their chapter-wide Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service activity. Each Saturday, FFT hand delivers lunches to the homeless community in downtown Toledo. Chapter families met at FFT’s headquarters to assemble the lunches to be distributed.

The chapter made and packed a total of 250 lunches complete with a sandwich, side, and dessert. This was an amazing opportunity to serve, as well as team build as a chapter. Before the activity began, the chapter took a moment to reflect on the importance of giving back to the community. It was a fun Friday night of family bonding with a purpose! We truly exhibited The Power to Make a Difference in our community!

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WESTERN COOK COUNTY, IL MID-WESTERN REGION Nearly 50 mothers, fathers and children from the Western Cook County Chapter volunteered at Bernie’s Book Bank as part of our MLK Day of Service event. The mission of Bernie’s Book Bank is to collect, process and redistribute new and gently used children’s books to significantly increase book ownership among at-risk infants, toddlers and school-age children.

WCCC families collected and donated almost 2,000 children’s books - the LARGEST donation to date for Bernie’s Book Bank by a participating organization. Our chapter participated in sorting, labeling and boxing books for delivery to children throughout Chicagoland.

After volunteering for our day of service, the WCCC teens presented several impactful short tributes to famous African-American civil rights leaders. “It was inspiring to see so many of our children embrace this event and have such a great time giving back to others,” said WCCC President Cherya Jenkins.

ALEXANDRIA, LA SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Alexandria Louisiana Chapter of Jack and Jill is dedicated to helping others in need through our community service efforts.

The morning of Monday, January 18, 2016 began with a Martin Luther King Day celebration which consisted of the members and their family participating in the Martin Luther King Day parade. The culmination of our Regional Day of Service to end hunger included participation in community service events for Souper Bowl Day of Caring. Our children solicited canned food donations and delivered them to our local food bank and Manna House. The children learned about the importance of giving back to the community and how hunger affects people living in their community. The Alexandria chapter also donated funds to our local food bank on this day.

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HUMBLE-KINGWOOD, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION On November 15, 2014, the High Hopes of the HumbleKingwood Chapter helped to make Thanksgiving a bit more thankful for some Houston area families.

The group of parents and children joined Target Hunger in their annual Turkey Drive. Each Thanksgiving, Target Hunger puts together sacks of groceries for families in need so that they can have the Thanksgiving dinner they may not have had otherwise. The moms and children helped inside by sorting fruits and vegetables into sacks to be handed off to other volunteers to create the care packages. The dads helped out in the car line by distributing completed sacks to families as they pulled up. Once all the sacks were handed out, we stayed and participated in the food pantry by sorting cans and stocking the shelves. The experience with Target Hunger inspired several of our children to go a step further and seek out other volunteer opportunities in the community.

NEW ORLEANS, LA SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Teens of the New Orleans Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. participated in the Souper Bowl of Caring by donating to Hope the Food Pantry of New Orleans. The Food Pantry was opened in the fall of 2013. In those three years, the Food Pantry have served over 250,000 hot meals to seniors around the city of New Orleans.

The Food Pantry’s primary operation is a full service Food Pantry and hot meal distribution center focusing on both children and elderly. The teens made a substantial donation of money and time to the Food Pantry. After making the monetary donation, the teens donated their sweat equity by sorting the over 1000 pounds of food they also donated.

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NORTH SUBURBAN DALLAS, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION As Desmond Tutu said, “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”, and members of the North Suburban Dallas Chapter gladly provided “bits of good” through several community service projects. In August 2015, our youth “Packed the Backpack” by stuffing backpacks with school supplies and providing to the Assistance Center of Collin County. At our annual Breakfast with Santa Service and Social event, Christmas presents and monetary donations were presented to Community Honorees – 3 deserving Families, the Dallas Senior Care Health/Rehab Center, and Women’s Storybook Project of Texas. To honor JJOA’s National Day of Service, mother members, youth and perspective families volunteered at the Collin County Seven Loaves Community Food Pantry (which services over 2,500 individuals monthly) where our younger children created hygiene “Blessings Bags” and older youth sorted garments in the clothing closet.

SUGAR LAND, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Sugar Land Chapter participated in the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., National Day of Service on January 18, 2016 in conjunction with the Souper Bowl of Caring by volunteering at the Richmond/Rosenberg Helping Hands Center. The RRHHC is a place where needy families can go and receive food, clothing and other items, free of charge.

We had a huge turnout of chapter children, teens, mothers and fathers eager to assist in the food pantry and clothing donation center! As a chapter we put together over 100 bags of groceries as well as numerous packages of personal necessities for the needy for the Richmond/ Rosenberg area. The chapter donated over $130 in cash, 71 pounds of food and 3 large tubs of clothing. It was a joyous day of giving and sharing and we anticipate a long lasting relationship with the RRHHC and the Sugar Land Chapter in the future!

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WACO, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Waco Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc. collected canned goods and non-perishable food items during the 2016 Jack & Jill & Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Souper Bowl of Caring Party held February 7th during Super Bowl 50.

We awarded certificates to donors of top categories such as “best meal in a can” and “most veggies donated”. Winners included non-profit organizations, fraternities, and sororities. The Sigmas were awarded most canned goods donated, most unique meal in a can, and overall participation! Photos were taken at our photo booth, which had creative cutouts such as footballs, canned goods, and team logos.

This was a fun-filled event involving our whole community! We donated more than 150 canned goods and non-perishable items to a Waco Caritas. The Sigmas would like to partner with our chapter annually; a partnership displaying the impact of working together to change lives in our community!

ATHENS AREA, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Athens Area Chapter of Jack and Jill had its annual Goodies and Giggles Community Service Project on October 31, 2015 at Pruitt Grandview Nursing Home. It was the reversal to traditional Trick or Treat with the children handing out goodie bags to the patients.

The teens made 75 goodie bags filled with socks, toiletries and face cloths. A hospital administrator led the children to each room where they left goodie bags for each patient. The patients enjoyed watching the children walk around in their costumes and they invited us back next year. The children were rewarded for participating in the service project with goodie bags filled with healthy snacks and treats. A former Jack and Jill Mom’s family previously owned this facility and their story still remains in the entrance of the facility.

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ATLANTA, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION On any given night, more than 10,000 in Atlanta experience homelessness.

A wage earner earning minimum wage would have to work 85 hours per week to afford a two-bedroom apartment in Atlanta at Fair Market Rent.

The Atlanta Chapter’s third, fourth and fifth graders can share these statistics with you because on a cold, wet Sunday, they spent their afternoon learning about homelessness, participating in a yoga session with the shelter guests and preparing cold weather kits for the guests. The task of preparing kits was conducted by the children and lead by our fifth graders.

This act of awareness, compassion and service helps to prepare our young people for the leaders they are today and will be tomorrow.

As an activity that our moms and children continue to talk about, the young leaders of the Atlanta Chapter have done it again!

BIRMINGHAM, AL SOUTHEASTERN REGION In commemoration of MLK Day, the Birmingham Chapter came together for a meaningful day of service at Wylam Elementary School. Our teens and parents provided prep work for the painting of the school’s walls while our youngest members completed a “Wall of Inspiration” art project. The special project included each child’s handprints and a loving message of encouragement for their peers. Upon the project’s completion, the canvas was unveiled and presented to the school’s principal. Additionally, families prepared toiletry bags with needed hygiene items for residents of Jessie’s Place, a shelter for homeless women and children. To end the day of service, we painted crates and flowerpots for an herb garden that will be given to the residents of a newly built Habitat for Humanity home for placement in their windowsills. The Birmingham Chapter definitely knows how to work, love and play while making a positive impact in our community.

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COLUMBUS, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION On November 14, 2015 members and Associates of the Columbus, GA Chapter demonstrated their dedication to make a difference in the lives of 46 girls who reside at the Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home in Columbus. COLGA families mobilized to create a Library for the girls and sponsored a book drive which resulted in over 1200 books to establish the “first-ever” on-site Library at the facility. The chapter then worked to ensure that the books were labeled and sorted based upon grade level to assist with Lexile Level identification. A variety of crafts, bedding, personal hygiene items and academic resources were also donated for the girls’ use. The Mothers, Associates, Fathers and children from all grade groups enjoyed enhancing this facility’s ability to assist the girls in their reading and study. #COLGAService #COLGApride

EAST SUBURBAN ATLANTA, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Amazing Mighty Minis and Jumping Juniors of the ESAC of Jack & Jill of America, Incorporated, along with their families, had the opportunity to give back on MLK Day. Their service project included assembling/distributing 150 sack lunches, wash clothes and soap sets to the homeless community in Atlanta. The children were surprised to learn the homeless community included entire families. The children/parents formed an assembly line to promote teamwork. This exercise promoted humility, humbleness, and awareness of communities that are less fortunate than families in Jack & Jill. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a leader who promoted helping others that are not always in a position to help themselves. Whenever we do community service, we hope we are honoring this great man and all those individuals who make this world a better place to live. We trust that participating in this service created awareness among our youth.

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GREATER CHATTANOOGA, TN SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Greater Chattanooga chapter transformed the Chattanooga Boys and Girls Club gymnasium into a Magical Winter Wonderland to celebrate the Holidays. The gymnasium was barely recognizable after it was decorated with the Christmas spirit with the help of Santa’s elves, the GCC Families. Boys and Girls Club children were treated like “Rock Stars” as the GCC children welcomed them with cheers and sprinkled them with pink and blue confetti when they entered on the red carpet. Activities included face painting, arts and crafts and a photo booth by the Christmas tree. GCC Moms read stories featuring some traditional Christmas favorites and book selections from the Southeastern Regional Book Club. The children even got a visit from Santa, who definitely stole the show and was immediately surrounded by all the children.

Everyone had a great time and GCC is committed to making a difference in the lives of all children.

MEMPHIS, TN SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Memphis Chapter of Jack and Jill held our service-wide event at Binghampton Christian Academy (BCA) November 21, 2015. BCA has a Day School and Residential Program. There are twenty-eight students living on campus, in order to give them an opportunity for a more successful educational experience.

Most students come from the Memphis Binghampton community with the largest number from the housing projects near the school. The school provides an environment of love and hope.

Jack and Jill children of all ages served breakfast and provided holiday gift sacks. We were all entertained by a riveting performance from Memphis Symphony Orchestra quartet (string and woodwind). Our Jack and Jill dads facilitated a basketball tournament that all of the kids enjoyed. In addition to the service event, our chapter supports BCA year round by providing meals for the boarding students and other opportunities for cultural exposure such as concerts and our Black History Production entitled American Black and Classic.

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NORTH SUBURBAN ATLANTA, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION On a brisk winter day in January, the children of the North Suburban Atlanta (NSAC) chapter participated in a service project in recognition of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. For the second consecutive year, children in every age group, along with mothers and fathers came out to support a local non-profit shelter, 7 Bridges to Recovery.

While the younger children played games with children from the shelter, NSAC teens and their families prepared sandwiches for the street ministry. The teens were able to join the teams that went to “The Bluff” (Atlanta’s largest crack cocaine district) to serve meals and minister to the homeless and the lost. Our Martin Luther King, Jr Day of Service is a great way for our children to understand the need for volunteering and seeing firsthand how their service impacts their local community.

SOUTH MIAMI CHAPTER, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION The South Miami Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. scheduled programming this winter to keep with the theme “The Power to Make a Difference”. Our Chapter shared their Christmas spirit with children living with a homeless shelter in our area. Moms, Dads, teens and children all participated in this event by decorating cookies and facilitating arts and crafts projects with the children. There was a reading corner where our teens read to the younger children. The highlight of the day was singing holiday favorites with the children and then having a caroling competition with the different age groups. The children enjoyed sharing time with one another.

The chapter also donated gifts and including a mini library of children’s books for the center. The South Miami Chapter worked, played, and made a difference together to spread holiday cheer.

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Chapter Programming 2016

cultural Latrecia Jordan

Southeastern Region Program Chair

C

ultural Heritage can be expressed as intangible or tangible attributes inherited from past generations, maintained in the present, and bestowed for the benefit of future generations. Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, is proud of its rich history and the diverse African American experiences that have shaped our nation. We are proudly empowering our youth to become world leaders through purposeful programming that enriches their cultural heritage. Under the leadership of National President, Tammy King, our children and teens have embraced the national theme, “The Power to Make Difference.” They are reminded to never forget the trail blazers who paved the way for us to live out the lives and dreams that we do so freely today. There are many things to celebrate about the African American Experience.

Our National Thrusts for Cultural Heritage center around those things and the work we have yet to complete. Our focus, since 2014, has been to promote Healthy Living and celebrate

the rich history and relevance of our Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Under the visionary leadership of our National Program Director, Gladys Henderson, Jack and Jill mothers have created programming designed to expose, engage, and excite our children about their rich cultural heritage. It is imperative as mothers that we teach our children to be proud of their past and excited about their future!

As you look at the amazing programs that our mothers implemented during our 20152016 program year across the nation to embrace our cultural heritage, prepare to be inspired! Mothers you have introduced some phenomenal and creative programs into your chapters by empowering our youth to prepare for and participate in Black History Month programs, healthy living initiatives, and join in partnerships with HBCUs, and other organizations. The relationships our families have cultivated with our historically black colleges and universities is priceless.

“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots.”

–Marcus Garvey SCOPE 2016

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JOHNSON county, KS CENTRAL REGION The Johnson County Kansas Chapter of Jack and Jill is continuing to show it has the “Power to Make a Difference” in 2016. In observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, the chapter partnered with several organizations in the Kansas City metropolitan area to host a Kids Fun Fest Extravaganza to promote health and wellness in the community. With over 24 participating vendors and over 100 youth in attendance, the event provided immediate access to a multitude of services such as free health screenings, assistance with health insurance enrollment as well as educational and financial planning resources. The addition of fun-filled yoga sessions and dance performances also provided encouragement for physical fitness. The chapter is proud to have sponsored such a successful event and looks forward to continuing to provide opportunities for overall physical, emotional and spiritual health for the Kansas City area in 2016!

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK CENTRAL REGION The Oklahoma City Chapter began our programming year with an outstanding cultural event welcoming international storyteller Charlotte Blake Alston! Ms. Alston is a renowned speaker and has performed at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Smithsonian Institution, and many venues throughout the world. Held in August, the all groups event was intimately hosted in a members home where the children relished the traditional African and African American stories, such as Anansi the Spider from Ghana. They also learned about and played traditional instruments such as djembe, mbira, shekere and the 21-stringed kora. The children were taught African dance choreography and head wrapping with scarves

by Miss Black Oklahoma City, Kemi Sogunro.

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BUCKS COUNTY, PA EASTERN REGION The Bucks County Chapter participated in African American History Month at the National Constitution Center. Our children were riveted by the live performance, Freedom Rising. This poignant story on “We the People” highlighted key milestones in America’s history and noted slavery’s damaging effects on the African American community.

Next, our children participated in the Breaking Barriers program that examined the lives of groundbreaking African Americans—providing insight into the struggles they faced and the rights they secured for all citizens. These inspiring stories revealed how one individual’s civic actions can impact a nation.

The activity concluded with a special Kid’s Town Hall with four past presidents. The presidential characters shared their perspectives as it pertained to signing the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and the Emancipation Proclamation.

Our chapter walked away with a deeper appreciation and understanding of our founding fathers, African American ancestors and our Nation’s history.

COLUMBIA, MD EASTERN REGION Can two friends break away from the city to live their dreams?

In November, 2015 the Junior Teens of the Columbia, Maryland Chapter traveled to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC to enjoy Daruis & Twig, a play written by the late Walter Dean Myers one of the most prolific and powerful children’s authors of our generation. Darius & Twig is about friendship and needing to live one’s own dream. One of our Junior Teens, Jacob Ethridge who co-hosted the event, gave this review of the play; “Darius’character is an amazing writer who doesn’t really know it and Twig is an astonishing athlete who just needs some encouragement to realize it.” Many of our Jr. Teens chose to read the novel prior to viewing the play to deepen their understanding.

Following, the children had the opportunity to meet cast members Manu Kumasi, Justin Weeks, and Christopher Wilson.

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GREATER HARRISBURG, PA EASTERN REGION In January, the teens of the Greater Harrisburg Area Chapter went on a field trip to the National Civil War Museum located in Harrisburg, PA. The teens learned about the preservation of material culture and sources of information that are directly relevant to the Civil War. A multifaceted, traveling exhibit was on display about, “The life and times of Congressman Robert Smalls”, who was born into slavery but who managed many careers throughout his life including ships pilot and Congressman.

His persuasion helped convince President Lincoln to accept African-American soldiers into the US Army. This trip allowed the GHAC teens to experience the culture and history of the American Civil War. Our busy teens spent much of the evening completing modules and finished the day experiencing a second cultural activity - sharing food from the 100th Annual Farm Show, an agricultural state fair. The day ended with a teen sleep-over.

JERSEY SHORE, NJ EASTERN REGION Rhythmic Heritage African Drumming and Dance Lesson; Cultural Meal - The Jacks and Jills of the Jersey Shore, from the youngest to the oldest, learned the historical, symbolic, and cultural meanings of African drumming and dancing as the inseparable heartbeat to our ancestors. Our children learned through experience how drumming and dancing plays an integral role in every aspect of African life, from communication to the physical, emotional, and spiritual. Our various age groups then enjoyed dinner and our First Annual Kwanzaa celebration at a black owned & operated restaurant.

From drumming and dancing to the celebration of our culture with a communal meal; this event highlighted the African proverb that “[i]t takes a village to raise a child.” Sponsored Teens December Event (2015-2016)

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NATIONAL HARBOR, MD EASTERN REGION National Harbor Chapter continues to empower our children to make healthy lifestyle choices with their food and activities.

Our youngest children began their healthy journey this year hosting a community Trike and Bike Health Fair where they were educated on bike safety, health, and wellness. Activities included jump rope, hula hoop, kick ball, dance and biking. With the support of our community partners, children learned both how to make healthy snacks and the importance of eating fruits and vegetables in their daily diets. Information on eye care, dental hygiene and juvenile diabetes, and wellness programs offered in the community was shared with the families. Their healthy journey culminated with a hip-hop health party--a cultural component where the children exercised to hip hop music while sporting old school hip hop gear. Funds raised for the health fair event benefited St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Jack and Jill Foundation.

NEW HAVEN, CT EASTERN REGION The New Haven Chapter of Jack and Jill hosted a cultural Kwanzaa celebration. The event was held in December to launch the Kwanzaa season, with over 80 families in attendance!

During the event we focused on the cultural implications of Kwanzaa for African American families. The children of all age groups focused on creating craft activities, including assembling and decorating wooden Kinaras.

Families listened to Kwanzaa music and appreciated Kwanzaa artifacts made available.

The explanation of the principles was shared amongst the groups. There were several alumni in attendance who attend HBCU’s and spoke to the younger children about their experience.

As part of promoting healthy living practices, healthy food options were provided with a southern flair. Children also participated in serving and enjoying foods that have been historically prominent in the African American community. The evening ended with a beautiful New Haven Chapter version of “Lift Every Voice and Sing”.

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NORTHERN VIRGINIA EASTERN REGION In January, Ellen Perkins, Community Service Chair and Leslie Fisher, Education Chair led the Northern Virginia Chapter’s 5th annual family day of service to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Chapter families joined in the activities for the MLK Community Summit at Morning Bishop Theater Playhouse.

The event supported the Eastern Region Community Service Thrust: Feeding the Body & Mind.

Our families were called to join in on “community challenges,” which consisted of jumping jacks, jogging in place and planking to raise money for the various causes.

Young children, teens and parents assembled first aid kits, baked cupcakes, made sandwiches, participated in art education, created posters, reenacted the March on Washington, all to benefit local charities. Additionally, our chapter president, Tara Dunlap, and member, La Guardia Myers, delivered sandwiches prepared by chapter children to homeless families in Washington, DC, supporting the Eastern Region community service project.

POTOMAC VALLEY, MD EASTERN REGION The Potomac Valley Chapter celebrated Black History Month with our 4th annual Poetry Slam. Our children celebrated the works of African American literary greats by reciting poems and songs. Children also showcased a living museum by dressing up as African American history makers. Our program featured a local guest poet, Charity Blackwell, who presented her poems and shared words to inspire our children. This chapter wide activity touches on the National Program Educational and Cultural thrusts in a way that supports our chapter’s commitment to developing an interest and appreciation for the arts. In addition, our members celebrated literacy in our community through the donation of books by African American authors to our local library system. Following our event, our middle school age group hosted a party where book donations were encouraged. We are proud of our commitment to promoting literacy and our long partnership with our local library system.

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PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA EASTERN REGION Christmas time at the White House -- We treated ourselves to a tour of perhaps the most famous house in the world -- during perhaps the most festive time of year. A family of penguins greeted us at the Front Portico and pointed us toward the marvelous decorations inside. A Christmas tree honoring our Troops lent the perfect sentiment to the occasion. The State Dining Room was a group favorite, showcasing a chocolate replica of the White House and all the delights one could fancy. The children marveled in the rich history of the White House. Throughout the tour, there were opportunities to engage and reflect on the contributions of the Presidency to our great nation and the world. In the spirit of giving, all Childrens’ groups reconvened later in the day to wrap well over 100 gifts, which we donated to our Boys & Girls Club friends.

SYRACUSE, NY EASTERN REGION Our 6th-8th grade Jacks and Jills attended the opening reception for the “Black Utopias” exhibit, a collection of rare material that illuminates varied utopian visions of Black American life. Power, race, religion, beauty, radicalism and freedom were just some of the themes expressed, of an ideal utopia and featured through writings, photos and artifacts. The children viewed the handwritten letter that Malcolm X sent to Alex Haley during his pilgrimage to Mecca, as well as other unique items including but not limited to Dubois, Langston Hughes, Madam C.J. Walker, James Ford and MLK. The purpose of the exhibit was to make viewers aware of the diversity of opinion, and the assorted visions not just across time, but amongst Black people. This activity enabled our children to expand their knowledge; engage in dialogue regarding important movements, perceptions and genres throughout African-American history; and juxtapose them to current issues affecting our communities.

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long beach, CA FAR WEST REGION Families in the Long Beach chapter have embraced the Healthy Living Initiative, and activities to keep our children physically fit are an integral part of our programming.

Using the great outdoors as their gym, our youngest grade groups participated in the Kids Marathon Mile at Legoland, and our 7th & 8th grade “tween” group took to the ocean for kayaking and sailing lessons with the Long Beach Recreation department. Jacks and Jills in grade groups 4 through 8 spent an afternoon learning about the fine sport of fencing at the Gryphon Fencing and Fitness Studio, and our teens enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon strategizing their attacks at the Hollywood Sports Paintball and Airsoft Park.

PASADENA, CA FAR WEST REGION Our Heritage!!! The most important thing we can teach our children is where they come from and who they are, to illuminate the heights to which they can soar. We do this by celebrating Black History Month with the entire chapter and the local community. Our talented mothers work with our children to create wonderful scripts showcasing the accomplishments of the African diaspora. The entire chapter participates, and our children learn about the influence their ancestors have had and that they, themselves, can have on social change. Our 2015 program told the story of the Haitian Revolution, which helped shaped our country, through dance, theatre and art. There was a table display and the performance was followed by a reception for all attendees. Our 2016 program is a multi-media presentation on the impact of protest in our rich history. We showcase our heritage through our Black History Month celebrations.

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POMONA AREA, CA FAR WEST REGION The Pomona Area Chapter children have many opportunities to participate in cultural and educational experiences. This year, we participated in the African-American Historical Society’s 23rd Annual Walk-a-Thon. The Pomona Area Chapter is commitmed to health and wellness.

SACRAMENTO, CA FAR WEST REGION It is a rare occasion that a HBCU travels to the west coast; therefore, when the Sacramento chapter heard Grambling’s football team was scheduled to compete against UC Berkeley, we capitalized on the opportunity. We decided that our Jack and Jill Day would be celebrated by attending the UC Berkeley vs. Grambling football game. We rented a charter bus to escort our chapter to the game. On the bus, we snacked, sung, laughed, danced, and two members from our Father’s Auxiliary explained the rich heritage of HBCUs. Prior to the game, we tailgated at the Berkeley Marina where we ate lunch, completed group activities, and honored the memory of Carole Robertson.

After lunch, we packed up and headed to the game where we were exposed to the amazingly, unique cheerleaders and marching band. We had over 130 participants, and it was a fun-filled family event that all enjoyed immensely.

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SANTA CLARITA/ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA FAR WEST REGION Kids Cook with Heart with Chef Bryce On February 13, 2016 Santa Clarita Valley Antelope Valley (SCV/AV) Jack & Jill Chapter took a trip to the Farmer’s Market, where the children learned how to pick healthy delicious ingredients and why the market is so important. This trip was followed by an in home demonstration of how to make a quick, healthy, and delicious recipe without their parents help! For over 20 years, Chef Bryce has utilized his culinary skills to make a significant impact in the community.

He is a chef for the American Heart Association (AHA) serving as instructor/educator for their Cook with Heart Los Angeles, Long Beach and Santa Ana program focusing on kids and teens. Chef Bryce empowers youth to make healthy food choices through hands-on cooking instruction and nutritional education, personifying AHA’s mission of building healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

SOUTH LOS ANGELES, CA FAR WEST REGION Every February South Los Angeles Chapter children participate in a culturally led event entitled “Living History Museum” that allows children to portray African American heroes from the past and present who inspires them and who had a significant impact in the world. The Chapter’s children are living exhibits at the museum. In preparation for the event, children research their identified figure and memorize important facts about the identified person. Also, the children create storyboards which list facts, pictures and other important facts on the identified person. All participants are dressed in appropriate costumes as their historical or present hero. This activity increases children’s knowledge on past African American figures that have paved the way for present day Blacks.

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BURLINGTON-GRAHAM, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION Saving a life one pint of blood at a time is the focus of the annual June Marie Thompson Blood Drive. Held each April, the Burlington-Graham Chapter partners with the American Red Cross and the Burlington Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta to educate the community regarding the importance of donating blood. The blood drive is held in a historically African-American church, and Jack and Jill youth assist by welcoming donors, and overseeing the refreshment area. According to the Red Cross, increasing African-American donations is vital because blood types O and B, the blood types of about 70 percent of African-Americans, are the blood types most in demand.

Donations will help African-Americas suffering from diseases such as sickle cell anemia, cancer, and heart disease. This program is in honor of June Marie Thompson, a Burlington-Graham Jack and Jill of America mother who lost her battle with cancer.

CAPITAL CITY, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Capital City Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. participated in a combined celebration of Carole Robertson and Jack and Jill Day with a tour of the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum/Palmer Institute. Dr. Hawkins Brown truly epitomized the “The Power to Make a Difference!” Together we toured the grounds of The Palmer Institute, a boarding school founded in 1902 by Dr. Hawkins Brown to provide a superior education and improve opportunities for African-American children. Dr. Hawkins Brown’s creed is what Capital City strives for, “Educate the individual to live in the greater world.”

Having fed our minds, we closed the day by feeding our souls with a family reunion style celebration which included a tribute to Carole Robertson, by one our teens highlighting her involvement with the Girl Scouts of America. This special dedication continued our chapter’s practice of honoring Carole’s legacy in a unique and memorable way.

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CONWAY, SC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Conway Chapter celebrated Carole Robertson and Jack and Jill Day on Sunday, September 20, 2016. The day began with worship at the Historic Bethel AME Church, the oldest African American church in Georgetown, SC. The church was established shortly after the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation which freed the slaves. The worship service was followed by the Carole Robertson ceremony, led by the teens of the Conway chapter. Immediately following the ceremony, the chapter enjoyed a delicious catered meal in the fellowship hall. This was the perfect beginning of the programming year since the chapter members had the opportunity to worship, celebrate and fellowship together.

Fayetteville, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Fayetteville Chapter celebrated Founder’s Day and recognized our Associates Mother’s on Saturday, January 30, 2016. We used this event to provide prospective mothers information about the organization and conducted a silent auction to raise funds for Foundation.

The luncheon was held at the new Iron Mike Convention Center in Fort Bragg, NC. The Programming committee, collaborate with the Foundation Committee and teens group to host this exciting fun-filled event. The Teen, Tweens, and Lads and Lassies groups participated in the program, conducting various roles such as mistress of ceremony, dance, poem, and prayer. We strive to promote independence and train in public speaking, etiquette, musical performance, and many additional opportunities for growth and leadership.

The luncheon consisted of special performances by Sydney Carroll and Blair Blackwell both Howard University students.

Dr. Lia Shorter (aka Diva MD) deliver an inspirational message themed “Be Authentically You”.

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PORTSMOUTH, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Portsmouth Chapter celebrated our annual Jack and Jill Day along with our neighboring Chesapeake and Norfolk Chapters, fostering JnJ relationships and inspiring camaraderie amongst all our families. A multi-chapter outdoor obstacle course provided lots of fun for all, with medals awarded to the fastest chapter team! Each chapter developed sections of an obstacle course for two pairs of participants to compete concurrently. To cultivate their interpersonal communication skills and increase their physical activity, each pair of participants ran through the course while connected to their teammate. We also played outdoor games like tug-of-war, Frisbee, soccer, football and badminton after sharing a meal. Our Teen Achievers built a PVC component as the finish line of the obstacle course for a STE[A]M project. The gathering affirmed the positive images of our families and our connections in celebration of our cultural heritage, our love of life and each other.

QUEEN CITY, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The children of Queen City Chapter hosted a MLK Day Black History Wax Museum at the Logan Community Center. This activity was open to children of all ages in the chapter. The children researched, documented historical facts to be displayed, presented and dressed as their favorite black history hero.

This was a fun and educational event for all who attended. The children and the families that attended were given an opportunity to learn and/or be reminded of all the contributions our black heroes have made.

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RALEIGH-WAKE, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Raleigh-Wake year kicked off with a celebration of Jack and Jill day combined with the annual 5K race. Recognition for Carole Robertson was also a part of this day and started with a reading from the preschool monthly book club selection about Wilma Rudolph.

Next, the winners of the 2015 chapter oratorical contest read a poem about the loss of a child. Afterwards, Jack & Jill children held up pink and blue pinwheels to symbolize that Carole’s spirit is still with us in the wind. Lastly, all families were entertained with a beautiful mime and praise dance. At the end of the performance, the children were escorted to the start line to begin the Carole Robertson Fun Run. The rest of the day was filled with face painting, balloon art, inflatables, and food trucks. Families were also able to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from local African-American farmers.

ROANOKE VALLEY, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION Jack and Jill Day was celebrated by the Roanoke Valley Chapter at Pilgrim Baptist Church. It was a cultural celebration of our historical reliance on spirituals, call-and-response, gospel music, prayer and scriptural references as a means to encourage the hearts of our African American ancestors who fought for freedom, justice, and equality.

The need to foster a sense of unity among our youth and families in today’s society is often achieved through organizations and experiences that create moods and motivations that challenge us to evaluate the reality of our current situations as a community.

We will remember the historically rich foundation the church provided to the African American community during its time of slavery, injustice, and inequality with great appreciation.

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CENTRAL KENTUCKY MID-WESTERN REGION The Central Kentucky Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. sponsored a community-wide event, Breakfast with Santa. This annual event was held on December 5th at the Applebee’s in Lexington. The highlight of this festive event was its spotlight on a culturally sensitive Santa. During breakfast, the children were able to meet and take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. This was an opportunity for the children to see and believe in an African American Santa Claus with whom they can identify. The younger children in the chapter mingled with our younger guests at the arts and crafts station, while the Teens, Middlers, and Lads & Lassies assisted the mothers in taking the guests’ orders and serving the food. The Teens were also in charge of the making the guests aware of the Silent Auction items.

The proceeds from this wonderful event benefit the Jack and Jill Foundation.

DERBY CITY, KY MID-WESTERN REGION On September 6, 2015, the Derby City Chapter participated in our Jack and Jill Day & our tribute to Carole Robertson. Our theme was “Remember the Times,” our PreSchool & grades 1-2 dressed as Carole would have at her age & gave an oration of a poem. Our older grades, 3rd through 5th, sung a song; while our Tweens & Teens let lanterns go in a memoriam. After the program we played games & music of times of yesteryear; going through the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s. Playing games of jump rope, jacks, hopscotch, etc. We had great fellowship & Black History.

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN MID-WESTERN REGION Jack and Jill Indianapolis Chapter continues to “Set the Pace” under the leadership of President, Andrea Neely and Lead Teen Adviser, Annette Suggs, by exposing our talented teen group to an HBCU! On a sun-kissed October morning chaperones and an enthusiastic group of teens road-tripped to Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio. They were given a complete tour of the campus including the new multimillion dollar Student Union Building. Afterward our amazing teens experienced the excitement of the Homecoming parade and game. Many students and alumni visiting from all over took time to share their personal CSU experiences. Vendors with all manner and variety of Greek and HBCU related goodies enthralled our group. After spending their money and cheering the football team on the group piled back into their cars and headed back to Indy…but not before filling their bellies with Pappadeaux, a luxury not found at home.

YOUNGSTOWN, OH MID-WESTERN REGION The Youngstown Chapter partnered with Teen Straight Talk (TST), a local non-profit Christian organization, to start a series of educational programs. The first series began with grades pre-K to 5th grade.

TST presented a program called Building Blocks I. The program informed children about the importance of making healthy decisions in everyday situations, even including food choices. It taught them about self-identity and the value of positive relationships.

Children learned foundational principles such as knowing the truth of God, doing the right thing, saying no, dealing with feelings, good versus bad choices and the consequences. Our youth were very attentive and participatory. The mothers present were proud of the way the youth responded and how well behaved they were in listening to the presenters. The program reinforced the morals and values that we want to instill in our children, grooming them to be successful leaders of tomorrow.

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BATON ROUGE, LA SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Baton Rouge Chapter gave tribute to Carole Robertson and Jack and Jill Day on September 26, 2015 at the historical Old Louisiana State Capitol. A preview of the movie, “Four Little Girls” was one of many highlights of the day. The teens led the chapter in observing Carole Robertson Day with an activity that highlighted the goals of human and civil rights and racial harmony. The celebration was also commemorated with the releasing of balloons which served as a reminder that the service in Jack and Jill is a labor of love as we strive to reach the goals and aims of the organization. The Chapter also celebrated Jack and Jill Day by reuniting the members after the summer break. Additionally, we used this opportunity to present and introduce prospective families to Jack and Jill’s commitment of nurturing children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.

DALLAS, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Dallas Chapter hosted its second annual Chapter Wide Fitness Day on Saturday, April 25th at the Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD). The fitness day provided activities for the entire family and promoted healthy living and eating. To begin the morning, the attendees were educated on health care needs relative to diabetes with a focus on how the disease affects the African American Community. Several exercise rooms were set up for the children including: basketball free throw, yoga, kickboxing, aerobics, fencing, spin and Zumba. Parents spent time in an aerobics class and a nutritionist educated them on how to make healthy food choices. ESD’s lunch caterer, SAGE, provided a healthy lunch and also gave a cooking demonstration. The attendees were encouraged to promote healthy eating and fitness in their homes, schools and communities.

The Dallas Chapter and ESD partnered to have a phenomenal fitness day.

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KATY-PRAIRIE VIEW, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Katy-Prairie View Chapter of Jack and Jill always celebrates every February with a chapter family potluck Soul Food Luncheon with homemade food. This year, our chapter heeded the call of the healthy living initiative, and had our 2nd annual “Healthy Soul Food Luncheon”. We challenged our chapter to cook “healthy” traditional soul foods and came out for a great time! We started our event outside where we were led through a mini exercise boot camp by an Olympic decathlete. Once inside, children from each grade group presented their assigned healthy soul food and shared nutritional information about their dish. The healthy versions of greens, candied yams, macaroni and cheese and black eyed peas were absolutely scrumptious!! We were honored to have as our guest speakers, Coach Cam Campbell, and Lynn Kelly speaking about healthy living and entrepreneurship.

NORTHEAST DALLAS, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Our chapter kicked off its program year with its “Advancing Excellence” Showcase in honor of Carol Robertson and to celebrate Jack and Jill Day. Our children demonstrated their talents through the forms of music, dance, song, drama, and public speaking. We were delighted to have guest speaker, Mrs. Linda Reed-Griffin, a Garland ISD School Board Trustee. She encouraged our children to utilize their talents to excel academically and socially. In support of the Children’s Defense Fund partnership, NED collected and donated over 100 outdoor sporting goods to Margaret’s Treehouse, who provides a safe place for children during out of school hours and provides academic assistance and enrichment activities. In addition, our 3rd and 4th grade boys creatively encouraged the youth to attend a HBCU. Their skit reminded us of the importance and power to understand and value our African American heritage.

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SOUTHWEST SUBURBAN DALLAS, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION During the fall, the Southwest Suburban Dallas Chapter hosted an African Dance and Healthy Living Workshop for our children ranging from 2- 12 years of age.

The event emphasized the importance of physical activity while injecting a sense of cultural empowerment. The workshop took place at the Sammon’s Center for the Arts under the direction of Brandon Koro and his drum ensemble. While the children enjoyed learning about African dress, instruments, and rite of passage dances, they most enjoyed emulating and practicing the exciting dance movements. Even the mothers in attendance joined into the fun and worked up a sweat. After the dance portion concluded, a healthy food presentation was given in conjunction with a healthy lunch. By introducing non-traditional physical activity and tasty snacks into our programming, the kids learned that this life style can be anything but dull and boring.

GREATER TAMPA, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION Greater Tampa Chapter celebrated Black History Month with a ‘Century of Black Life, History, and Culture’ Mystery dinner. The program opened with panel discussion on ‘Is Black History Month still needed?’

There were three acts. Act One- Jack and Jillers from various age groups reenacting the 1963 March on Washington.

As the audience heard personal reflections from the Teens, representing leaders of the March called ‘Big Six.’ Act Two- GTC Teens presented the Progressive Movement. The youth expressed their viewpoints on the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities for higher education of African Americans. Afterwards, former Florida A&M University President & Dad, gave his point-of-view as well. Final Act showcased the musical and lyrical talents of our Jack and Jill children. It focused on the Jazz era. At evening’s end, all attendees submitted answers to solve the mystery and sang the Black National Anthem, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing.”

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JACKSON, MS SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Jackson MS Chapter celebrated Jack & Jill Day/Carole Robertson Day on Sunday, September 27, 2015, at the historic Alamo Theater in downtown Jackson, MS. Our teens did an exceptional job presenting the Carol Robertson ceremony. Jackson State University’s MADDRAMA (Making a Difference Doing Respectable and Meaningful Art) Performance Troupe presented a themerelated dramatization customized to honor Carol Robertson and other Civil Rights leaders.

MADDRAMA delivers quality plays depicting the African American experience in effort to increase community awareness of theater as a cultural art.

The chapter ended the day by supporting our very own, Teen Jaden Nixon, who lives with Sickle Cell. Moms, dads, children, and associates participated in the annual Cure Sickle Cell Walk/ Run/Ride founded by Jackson MS Chapter members Dr. Larry and Dee Nixon. The Cure Sickle Cell Foundation aims to educate the community about the Sickle Cell treatments and the need for a cure.

MIAMI, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION As the program year began, the theme “Black History Matters!” was incorporated into each age group’s programming through various activities such as trivia at each teen meeting, reading challenges and genealogy research for the younger age groups.

During the annual black history event, a historic overview of local chapter history and the significance in Miami’s black community was explained and shown through visual displays.

Moderators took the audience on a journey of history past and present showing the path traveled by our ancestors. Displays included a slavery time-line representing six generations of one of our chapter members, Kwanzaa Klass!, authentic African carvings and fabrics, and chapter youth family heirlooms. There were also multi-talented performers who entertained the audience with African folktales and musical entertainment of drumming and singing. The event was a display of our proud African heritage and how it matters to preserve history for the future generations.

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MOBILE, AL SOUTHEASTERN REGION On November 11, 2015, The Mobile Chapter Tweens and Teens, boarded a bus headed south to Xavier University in New Orleans, Lousiana. The children had an oportunity to tour this HBCU and learn about the admissions process.

From Xavier South to the main campus, our children toured the campus library, dormitories, the Pharmacy School and the Student Activity Center. Our day did not end there. The chapter traveled to St. John Parish to tour the historic Whitney Plantation. The plantation is devoted to the slaves of St John Parish and its story is told through the eyes of the slaves. The teens experienced the lives of African slaves by touring the Slave Quarters, The Field of Angels, Antioch Baptist Church, The Wall of Honor and The Big House. This unforgetable trip allowed all of us to respect our past and reach higher for the future.

PALM BEACH, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION For 2015 Black Family Day, the Palm Beach Chapter celebrated families and our connection with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Each family represented an HBCU and we collectively promoted twenty-five institutions during the evening through prose, music, and speech. Also, we acknowledged the end of the programming year with an award ceremony and celebrated our graduating senior, Kendall Bond. Families shared favorite recipes that complimented a pizza dinner. These events took place at the South Florida Museum of Discovery & Science where the Palm Beach Chapter had exclusive access to an educational and entertaining overnight experience. The children and their parents created lasting memories during this sleepover adventure that included science demonstrations, exhibit explorations, live animal encounters, and simulated rides. The children and adults truly experienced an unforgettable cultural, and educational Black Family Day celebration.

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STONE MOUNTAIN, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Stone Mountain Chapter’s observance of Carole Robertson Day allowed our teenagers to hone their leadership and public speaking skills. The entire ceremony was planned and conducted by our Carole Robertson teen committee, including Austin Rogers (Chair), Kamryn Tillman (Co-Chair), Jalen Pierce, and Billye Lewis. The chapter took part in the Carole Robertson Remembrance ceremony. Queries such as “Do you pledge to uphold the values of community service and loyalty?” were followed by the entire chapter answering, “I will.” Our younger children expressed the values of Carole Robertson through their individual pictures and drawings. A brief civil rights history lesson provided further relief to the day’s historical significance. Our day concluded with food, family, fellowship and fun for all in the park. The Stone Mountain Chapter truly harnessed its “Power to Make a Difference.”

SUNCOAST, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Suncoast Chapter celebrated Carole Robertson and Jack and Jill Day on September 27, 2015 at the Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg FL. Viewing the exhibit, “This Light of Ours: Activist Photographers of the Civil Rights Movement”, provided our children an experience that offered a perspective on hatred and intolerance that drew from the powerful parallels of historical racial disparities of African-Americans in the local community and across the nation. After taking a guided tour, we gathered in a private room to reflect. Celebrating the life of Carole Robertson at the Florida Holocaust Museum highlighted the goals of human rights, civil rights and racial harmony that, unfortunately, Carole never lived to enjoy. The Suncoast families and friends walked away with a combined historical perspective and deeper appreciation for the inherent worth and dignity of human life for all people in our diverse society.

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TREASURE COAST, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION Our year began focusing on our national theme: “The Power to Make a Difference.” We believed in order to make a difference abroad, one must first start at home. Therefore, our first activity of the program year was a Health Fair.

The Health Committee believed in providing health information to educate and enhance overal wellness knowledge and awarenss. The Health Fair involved partnerships with our local state college: Indian River State College. In addition, Chapter Mothers and Fathers were presenters as well. All age groups played an active role during the Health Fair. The teens assisted with calculating BMIs and pulse rates. Our Masters of the Universe and Youth Express age groups created healthy posters and identified healty fruits and vegetables.

The Treasure Coast Chapter programming calendar included many cultural activities to continue enriching our families, children, and community. Therefore, we can continue to say, “If it were not for Jack and Jill, my family would not have had ‘The Power to Make a Difference’.”

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Chapter Programming 2016

education ste(a)m

REGINA EDMONDSON

Central Region Program Chair

S

cience, Technology, Engineering, Art and

It is for these reasons that National President, Tammy

Mathematics - the five core subjects that make

King, has called on Jack and Jill to make STEAM a

up STEAM education. African Americans

priority for our Pre-K and Elementary aged youth.

contributions to STEAM have played a large role

Because of the vision of our National Program

in American history and will continue to impact the

Director, Gladys Henderson, chapters have been

future of all Americans. STEAM education is vital to

challenged to engage, expose, and excite children

our future, the future of our country, the future of

about the wonders of STEAM by building their

our region and the future of our children. STEAM

confidence,

is their future, the technological age in which they

exposing them to the many opportunities in STEAM-

live, their best career options, and their key to wise

related careers.

decisions.

breaking

down

stereotypes,

and

Chapters across the county have welcomed this

According to US News and World Report our level

national program thrust with the creation of

of engagement in STEAM will be measured by

innovative programs that both engage our children

employment rates. America will need to hire over 1

and promote a desire to investigate and solve

million more STEAM professionals by 2022 to meet

problems while having fun and developing team

the evolving workforce needs.

building skills. Chapter programs and activities help

STEAM careers are truly “helping” professions that

equip our children and youth with critical thinking,

build communities and transform nations. These professionals are in charge of solving the complex problems of today’s world and its future. They are working to find solutions for global warming,

problem solving, creative and collaborative skills.

These skills help them to foster and maintain an interest in lifelong education and the ability to think critically about the world around them in such a

cancer, third world hunger, disappearing habitats,

way as to create change..

and an interdependent world economy.

Jack and Jill Chapters are doing amazing things

If the United States is to maintain its global

with our children and in the community. If you don’t

leadership and competitive position, then we must

believe us, just watch!

motivate our students to pursue and/or understand STEAM fields.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

–nelson mandela 120

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kansas city, mo central REGION January was a fun month for all grade groups in the Kansas City Missouri Chapter! Education coupled with Arts, Civic and Cultural thrusts, gave our Jack and Jill’s the opportunity to learn in unique ways! The Little Stars visited the Raytown Fire Department and met with the Fire Chief. They toured the facility, including living quarters and weight rooms. The Little Stars learned how to respond if there is a fire and how to get to safety! Our Explorers participated in a mock trial with US District Judge Brian Wimes. A great time was had by all as they took the lead in every role in the courtroom.

Anthony Burns escaped slavery. Despite a fierce defense at trial, he was returned to his Slave Master. Our Adventurers and Teens participated as the 1858 Massachusetts State Senate and decided if the judge had other options. Should human rights outweigh the law?

northwest arkansas central REGION May 10th 2015 was an exciting time for the Northwest Arkansas Chapter as we ventured to the Kansas Speedway to experience NASCAR. Our Chapter received red carpet treatment throughout our day from the moment we arrived and were greeted by our personal escort and golf cart, to our backstage tour of the intricacies of the galleys and pits, and our jovial hang out session with SpongeBob. VIP seating enabled families to feel the roar of the engines of the vehicles previously seen being prepped transform to ripping through the roadways in a passionate fury.

This opportunity also allowed us to converse with several NASCAR drivers. Our STEAM focused program expertly exposed our children to mechanical engineering in the exploration of some of the most powerful automobiles of current times in action! This experience came courtesy of our resident former-NASCAR driver Bill Lester who was also our guide for the day.

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st. clair county, il central REGION The children participated in a unique experience affording them an opportunity to learn about the history of the infamous Tuskegee Airmen and their origins, and they were also able to take an introductory flight, courtesy of the Gateway Eagles Youth Aviation program. They were briefed on flight safety gear and procedures before boarding their aircraft and taking a short flight, which included a breathtaking aerial view of the Gateway Arch. The group was extremely studious as they listened to instructions ensuring everyone had a safe, fun experience. The program is designed to give youth, ages 8-17, an up-close and personal experience with flying aircraft, as well as an idea of what a career in aviation might look like. This was definitely our most memorable programming event this year and has left a lasting impression on our children.

St. Clair County Chapter just might have some future pilots in the making!

arundel bay area, md eastern REGION Our middle school children enjoyed an engineering concepts workshop led by the STEM Program Director from Johns Hopkins’ Applied Physics Lab. They were challenged: to build a robotic arm that could pick up a battery. They were briefed on NXT technology (understanding how the components fit together) and introduced to the engineering design process (ask, imagine, plan, create, and improve). Once divided into teams, they were ready to tackle the task at hand.

Later, each group shared their strategy and demonstrated the operation of the arm they had constructed. This fun, hands-on experience exemplified how both math and science are used in the field of robotics, and how collaboration is invaluable to the scientific process. They learned about robotics engineering and programming, and the impact they could have as an engineer.

Their departing challenge was to “map their educational pathway and change the world, one challenge at a time.”

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bridgeport, ct eastern REGION In celebration of Black History month 2015, the Eastern Fairfield County Chapter of J&J Inc partnered with the Brideport Discovery Museum for a STEM/ Cultural Awareness Program. The event was attended by over 1300 guests from the community.

Children in age group 3-6 were introduced to folktale storytelling narrated by a pre-teen group member followed by a craft activity. The 7-9 years old age group participated in the reading of Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold, which was narrated by our Pre-teens and Teens, and created their own personalized quilts focused on their family and dreams. The Pre-teens were introduced to Langston Hughes poetry about “Dreams” and designed their own dream boards. The Teen group organized a scavenger hunt based on African American STEM pioneers, with posters and clues displayed throughout the museum. The event concluded with the Black History Family Feud which was filled with interactive fun and rich history.

essex hudson, nj eastern REGION On an unseasonably mild November afternoon, our third through sixth graders, met outside the Museum of the American Indian to begin a walking tour along the Freedom Trail in New York City.

Our group of more than forty was amazed by the pieces of history that many of us have passed unawares on our regular travels through New York. The participants learned the exciting history of how a band of brave men and women formed the networks that became the Underground Railroad.

We saw a former station that was part of the Underground Railroad and learned about the riots, revolts, and dramatic escapes that occurred during American slavery. We listened to tales of courage and triumph and discovered the stories of real New Yorkers, who risked their lives and properties to help people escape slavery. Finally, we visited an archeological site and memorial dedicated to the memory of enslaved Africans in colonial America.

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greater union county, nj eastern REGION “Discovers” traveled to the Liberty Science Center for an exciting interactive afternoon at the science museum and learning center.

“Creators” explored the Liberty Science Center and enjoyed a Halloween Spooktacular sleepover.

They reveled in spooky Halloween thrills, including monster performers, a zombie autopsy, a wizard workshop, and lots more!

“Examiners” ventured to Clicks and Bricks, which incorporates STEM activities to challenge young minds. Using a hands-on approach, children partnered Lego bricks with computer programs. They did Robotics and Mindstorms to help grow a life long love of STEM. Children learned while planning, building, modifying and programming their materials. “Investigators”. M-o-o-o-ney! Investigators visited the Museum of American Finance on Wall Street. They participated in a scavenger hunt challenge. They learned about the early financial systems, including the US mint and tax systems designed to make the US prosperous. They viewed interesting items like the pure gold toilet and bubblegum ball machine.

mercer county, nj eastern REGION I Have a STE(A)M Children ages 6-9 were invited to the mechanical engineering lab of chapter mom Dr. Kimberly CookChennault at Rutgers University.

Dr. Chennault is the first African American and only the second woman to receive tenure in Rutgers University’s Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department. Dr. Chennault shared with the children how important Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was to her and other engineers who were not able to attend certain institutions during segregation. Once in the lab, the children worked to create composite sensors using chemical compounds and the laws of mechanical engineering. Afterwards, they discussed how grant funding is obtained for engineering projects, and how the money is allocated for supplies. The children then became engineers themselves as they formed teams, “bought supplies” from the engineering store (run by junior teens) and built contraptions to house a raw egg to survive a nine-foot drop.

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metropolitan, ny eastern REGION For over 75 years, the Metropolitan Chapter of Jack and Jill, Inc. has been committed to culturally enriching the lives of its member families. This year was no exception. In keeping with tradition, Metropolitan Group 2 families visited the Studio Museum in Harlem (SMH). Their visit embraced several thrusts.

First, it captured the Cultural significance of the continued contributions of African American artists. Second, it embraced the STE[A]M goals set forth in our programmatic initiatives by allowing the children to work creatively in an art intensive utilizing the curated medium viewed. Additionally, the event was truly a Literacy odyssey — the artists’ descriptive rendering of their works mesmerized each child. The event ended with each child creating their own masterpiece. The SMH is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by black culture.

montgomery county, md eastern REGION Innovative, inspiring, and imaginative describe the September 2015 Group 3 (2nd/3rd grade) Montgomery County Maryland Chapter activity.

The children obtained S.T.E.a.M. enrichment and financial literacy through programming designed and delivered by eight (8) NASA Goddard Space Flight Center rocket scientists (Engineers) and Resource Managers. The NASA team taught the full gamut on space program operations from project inception (S.T.E.M.), to business management (financial), to rocket design (a). Participants used paper money to acquire goods and services to fund their missions and chose to design and present either the International Space Station or a rover using Legos. The activity was of mutual value for NASA and Jack and Jill – the children attained S.T.E.a.M smarts and financial literacy, and NASA’s outreach embodied their education goals of: Strengthening NASA and the nation’s future workforce, Attracting and retaining students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines, and Engaging Americans in NASA’s mission Mission: Accomplished!

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prince george’s county, md eastern REGION Our Chapter moved “FULL STE [A] M “ahead for Jack and Jill Day. Participants enjoyed an afternoon of science with support from our community partners: the Prince George’s Community College (PGCC), the National Society of Black Engineers, University of Maryland engineering students, and the Science Lab of Master Chemist Grand Hank.

Our chapter mothers in the STEM field led hands-on activities with the assistance of our community partners. A visit to the PGCC Center for Health Studies’ state-of-the-art emergency room by our Tweens and Teens provided an opportunity to complete hands-on experiments on human patient simulators. The virtual hospital environment allowed them to experience working in an emergency room. Master Chemist Grand Hank, with the help of his DJ and audience “lab partners”, educated and entertained us with experiments focusing on electricity, physics and chemistry. Our STE [A] M Program Day was a huge success in the name of science.

south jersey, nj eastern REGION The South Jersey Chapter’s Coeds group (ages 11-13) engaged in an exciting hands-on STEAM activity recently. Led by Antoinette Thwaites, CEO- Association of Women in Forensic Science, approximately 30 attendees participated in their own CSI (Crime Scene Investigators) experience. The facilitator introduced the Coeds to this multidisciplinary field, incorporating Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Social Science as a collaboration. Participants were taught how to tap into their observation, problem solving, communication and critical thinking skills to assist them in the activity. The activity entitled “Whose Lipstick Was It” focused on chromatographic science and challenged the participants to identify clues and use them to identify unanswered questions in a “crime scene”. Lipsticks of “suspects” were compared against the lipstick left at the crime scene and participants were challenged to identify the murderer. The activity was engaging and encouraged participants to explore opportunities as they relate to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math.

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fresno, ca far west REGION The Jack and Jill Fresno Chapter supported the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Central Valley organization on October 24th, 2015. This event is one of many series held across the country and considered the most successful education and fundraising events for breast cancer. This event raises significant funds and awareness for the breast cancer movement, celebrates breast cancer survivorship and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. One unique fact about this event, 100% of the net proceeds are allocated to their mission and 75% of the net income stays in the local community to help fund local programs offering breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment. The additional 25% is awarded in the form of grants to the Susan G. Komen organization. Fresno Chapter’s very own Dr. Cheryl Whisenhunt was recognized for her work and achievements with the Susan G. Komen organization. She is a breast cancer survivor, team captain, and a dedicated Jack and Jill Mother. She was honored for her continued support of the Susan G. Komen Organization event.

las vegas, nv far west rEGION The families of the Las Vegas Chapter, decided to participate in “Operation Christmas Child” for the organization, Samaritan’s Purse, for our 2015 community service activity. This organization provides spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world. The goal is to fill shoeboxes with hygiene items, schools supplies and of course a few toys, all to assist with the needs of children. It was truly a beautiful sight to see our families bond while working together to fill, wrap and send these gifts to children who are victims of war, poverty, disaster, and possibly disease. By having our families fulfill the needs of Samaritan’s Purse we were able to use this experience to align with our Programing Thrust as it relates to our civic duty and assists with our focus on seeking all for children the same advantages that we desire for our own.

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north county san diego, ca far west REGION The North County San Diego Chapter of Jack and Jill is pleased to announce the 1st Annual “Full STEAM Ahead” program.

A full day, pre-college outreach program where students will be exposed to a range of fun and engaging activities including workshops, engineering labs, research tours, speakers, college admissions and financial aid information. The NCSD Chapter is sponsoring this program in collaboration with the IDEA Student Center at the Jacobs School of Engineering and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), UCSD Chapter. In addition to having our members attend the event we also invited 3rd – 12th grade students, churches, community organizations, and other partners who serve African American students.

Our goal is to increase the number of all historically underrepresented students in the field of S.T.E.A.M (Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Mathematics), especially African American students and expose African American students and their parents/families to UC San Diego and the overall process of pursuing higher education. In doing so, we aim to improve representation of African Americans in the engineering workforce.

phoenix, az far west REGION The Footloose and Fancy Free 4th to 5th Grade Group was introduced to the Science of Gelato Making. Doc the owner, first introduced them to the equipment that is used to make Gelato. He not only explained the function of the equipment but also the engineering aspect of how it worked. Next was the science part of the program. The children discussed freezing points, the molecular difference between Gelato and Ice Cream and natural ingredients verses chemical preservatives. Doc taught them that naturally sourced ingredients dictates the flavors and the legalities of labeling the Gelato. Lastly, the children learned about owning a small business from marketing, graphic art design, profitability and sustaining a viable business. The day ended on a high note when the children was able to enjoy many Gelato flavors and they were even able to take home a pint to share with their families.

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tucson, az far west REGION The Tucson Chapter incorporated their commitment to STE[A]M in their programming with an indoor skydiving activity. Providing both an educational and recreational component, children met at a local indoor skydiving arena to learn about aerodynamics both intellectually and practically. Upon arrival, children were given an informative presentation on the mechanics of flying which included demonstrations on how to safely position one’s body while in flight and the use of appropriate hand signals. Afterwards, each child was given the opportunity to experience first-hand the interaction between gravity and air resistance with a free form flight several minutes in a wind tunnel accompanied by an experienced instructor. Later, our children engaged in an interactive game where they worked with each other to match photos, words, and definitions related to sky diving. These activities brought theory to practical and helped children expand their knowledge base of science in a fun and exciting way.

durham, nc mid-atlantic REGION The Durham Chapter of Jack and Jill celebrated Carole Robertson Day by honoring the past, and looking to future leadership. The highlight of the celebration was an original play written by one of our mothers, titled “Carole Robertson: A Kid Like Me.” The play featured our chapter children, and our senior teens served as ushers and hostesses for the evening. Our key note speaker, Dr. Joyce Perry Edwards shared with us her experiences of being one of the first children to integrate Durham City schools. Dr. Perry went on to become superintendent of Durham City schools many years later. Our closing speaker, Pastor Boney, challenged us each to focus on how we can be the difference in this world. Following the production, we heard a history of Carole Robertson. We ended with a cake and punch reception with our families and several Durham officials, including the city Mayor Bill Bell.

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eastern north carolina mid-atlantic REGION The Eastern North Carolina Chapter explored the scientific and technological influence of ancient Africa in the modern world. Each activity group executed a project during the year using one component of the STE[A}M acronym. Rising Sun, the preschoolers had a fantastic time counting and capturing with “Mancala Mania”. The group learned the origins of the African game and created Mancala boards from egg cartons.

Adventure Galley, our first and second graders discovered how Egyptian architecture was both functional and beautiful.

The group used LEGO bricks to artfully construct buildings. Victory’s Triumph (3-5 grade) studied ancient African timepieces and built a water clock. Our junior teens of Great Fortune learned how Egyptians used trusses in the construction of ships. The group built an “Unbreakable Bridge” using this Egyptian method of engineering. The teens learned of the African origin of the binary code while developing their technology STE[A]M project. Liberty and Amity combined a raspberry pi (credit card sized computer) and a maKey maKey to create a piano sound that can be transmitted to an FM transmitter and played on a mobile phone. The children presented their work at a STE[A]M Fair hosted by the chapter at the C.M. Eppes Computer Lab which was supported by a Jack and Jill Foundation grant.

gastonia piedmont, nc mid-atlantic REGION Our Panther Teens Group of the Gastonia Piedmont Chapter hosted an event consisting of a day at the movies and it concluded with a scavenger hunt. The teen group viewed the movie Hungar Games at the Epicenter Movie Theater in Charlotte, NC. After the movie the teens enjoyed using their electronic devices to complete a scavenger hunt of the area Epicenter businesses. The teens created and submitted a pictorial using their electronic devices. They presented their pictorial to the host mothers. They were only given clues to answer questions regarding area businesses in the Epicenter. The first place team to return with all correct answers each received a prize. The teens enjoyed just walking and running around the Epicenter on their own.

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spartanburg, sc mid-atlantic REGION IIn line with our focus on STE(A)M, our visit to the Roper Mountain Science Center and Planetarium in Greenville, SC gave the children the opportunity to take an imaginative look at Orion, the great hunter of the winter sky. Accompanied by narrators Aesop the owl and Socrates the mouse, the children followed Orion’s adventures as he grew to manhood, battled mythical beasts, foiled the plot of an evil king and won the heart of Artemis, the moon-goddess. By the end of this star studded story, they had learned about the constellations Orion and Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Bear, and located and identified the Big Dipper and the North Star, which sits at the handle of the Little Dipper.

akron, oh mid-western REGION Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among teen-agers. Many people believe that talking about suicide makes teens more likely to commit it. On October 31st, JJ Akron teens learned that this belief was a myth. Talking about suicide actually helps prevent suicide.

The teens listen attentively as JJ mom and clinical psychologist, Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett shared the facts about Black teens, suicide, and suicide prevention. Teens learned that Black adolescents are at risk for suicide.

They were amazed to learn that thinking about suicide does NOT meant you’re crazy. It simply means you are either stressed, distressed, or overwhelmed. Dr. Angela also demonstrated what to do if a friend tells you he or she wants to kill themselves.

A Halloween party followed the presentation. Later that evening, many JJ teens held family discussions about suicide.

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circle city, in mid-western REGION Ready S.E.T. Go! served as the theme for the integrated STEaM program for K-2 students of Circle City, done in partnership with our sister JnJ Chapter. Engineers covering various fields provided hands on activity centers demonstrating the everyday uses of science and the importance of experiencing mechanical, agricultural, electrical and chemical engineering in the natural activities of life.

African-American scientists from Purdue, Wayne State and Southern Universities dedicated their time and talent to provide powerful examples of women making a difference in all areas of engineering, while reinforcing the importance of college and STEM as an education choice. Diverse workstations included, “How to light a light bulb with foil & a battery,” in addition to mixing color, a water density experiment and a demonstration about the forces that can be created from everyday environmental gases using cola and Mentos. The collaborative efforts led to a phenomenal day of STEaM.

oakland county, mi mid-western REGION On Halloween, Oakland County Group 1, grades PreK – Kindergarten, experienced the power of Education with a STE[A]M activity. The fun activity was a nurturing, age appropriate introduction to science. Children were led through a variety of exciting hands-on scientific experiments. They were addressed as doctors in lab coats, safety glasses and proudly donned name tags that read Dr. Elise, Dr. Gabrielle, Dr. Imani, Dr. Jacob, Dr. Jase, Dr. Logan, and Dr. Sienna. Experiments included using tea bags to create hot air convection currents; mixing vinegar, baking soda and food coloring to make colorful, bubbling concoctions; and creating polymers using household ingredients, which resulted in actual slime. They enjoyed their creations and were overjoyed to be called doctors.

Children learned that scientific experiments have cured diseases and saved lives. Our youngest Jack and Jillers were taught that through science, they have the power to create new things and make a difference.

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windy city, il mid-western REGION The January Grade Group 1 activity theme was “Frozen, not just a movie - STEAM activity”.

The activity focused on science experiments that had a frozen theme, along with sensory science demonstrations. The children were greeted with a lab coat and a pair of safety glasses. They participated in four experiments “Walking Water”, “Swirling Milk Art”, “How Animals Keep Warm”, and “Frozen Rainbow Eruptions”. These experiments were selected to capture the children’s interest by using colors and chemical reactions that led to eye catching results. The overall goal was to get the children interested and excited about science through hands on demonstrations that captured their attention. Each child was given a goody bag consisting of materials and instructions to perform a supervised crystallization take home experiment. All of the children had fun and went away with an exciting learning experience.

austin, tx south central REGION With a focus on Education, the Austin Chapter wanted to defy gravity and go skydiving! As featured internationally in various locations across the globe, iFly provides the opportunity for indoor skydiving.

Indoor skydiving is the simulation of true freefall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel. It’s where the dream of flight becomes a reality.

After a certified flight instructor provided the children with a demonstration of proper body position and an understanding of what to do, children in grades 6-8 wore a flight suit, helmet, and goggles. They were blown away -- literally, as they individually took flight in the tunnel.

There was no parachute, no jumping, and nothing attaching them to planet Earth. More than 30 children participated and each mother received a video of their child in flight. The children said that it was super fun and super cool!

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fort worth, tx south central REGION It was an evening of enchantment.

The 44th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Ball hosted by Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Fort Worth Chapter , commenced to a ballroom filled with music, echoes of applause and flashes of camera lights. Family, friends, and special guests observed six distinguished young men, with vast accomplishments both in and out of the classroom, receive their “Rite of Passage” into manhood. The Beaus dressed in formal black tie tuxedo’s adorned with top hats and canes, were dapper gents. Their escorts wore traditional white gowns with white satin gloves and pearls, and were visions of grace. Keeping with the theme of the ball “Their Journey, Our Future” the young men bowed before their fathers for the words of wisdom to strengthen and sustain them as they embark on their individual odysseys.

north houston suburban, tx south central REGION North Houston Suburban’s Dukes and Duchesses took flight in the Let’s Fly Together Skydiving Experience. Children, ages 9-11, participated in a STEM activity designed to stimulate curiosity, promote creativity and introduce them to the science behind skydiving. The STEM Program of iFLY uses a vertical wind tunnel to simulate skydiving. The curriculum is designed by STEM educators and scientists as a way to make STEM exciting and relevant.

The children began the activity by attending a presentation about wind tunnels, fluids and solids, drag and gravity, acceleration and terminal velocity. They also participated in a lab experiment on parachute design. Following the lab, the children were outfitted in flight suits, safety goggles, ear plugs and helmets. Each child flew for 1 minute in the tunnel, a virtual equivalent of 1 ½ skydives. The activity concluded with each child receiving a certificate of training and a video of their skydiving experience.

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red river, la south central REGION The Red River Chapter hosted a Historically Black Colleges and University fair, which was the first of this kind in our area. We hosted teens from other local civic groups, church youth departments, and schools with the purpose of informing the community of all the wonderful things HBCU’s have to offer through workshops on finances and financial aid options, test preparation information for ACT/SAT testing and what the scores mean. Our goal was for the students to walk away with a better understanding of finances, what steps to take when looking at financial aid/scholarships, how to prepare for testing, and last but not least to know that HBCU’s have a lot to offer.

san antonio, tx south central REGION In support of the STE(A)M national programming thrust, the San Antonio Chapter group of 2 – 5 year olds participated in the “Bricks 4 Kids” event where they experienced science based education and learning through designing and building alligators out of LEGO bricks. Our students developed problem solving and critical thinking skills while exploring engineering and architectural concepts. Working side by side with their parents they went through a step by step process of constructing their creative alligators with blocks. Everyone had a great time and afterwards they had “alligator snacks” that consisted of green jello, green juice boxes and alligator eggs (grapes). This was a great day for our little ones that exposed them to an exciting STE(A)M learning experience.

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the woodlands, tx south central REGION The Woodlands Chapter strives to inspire a love of the arts in our children. On December 6, 2015, our pre-kindergarten through eighth graders attended the Houston Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker. It was an afternoon filled with wonderment in support of the STE(A)M national programming thrust.

Following the theatrical performance, the children were treated to an exclusive backstage tour/meet and greet with Sara Webb Bardo, principal dancer and Harper Watters, an African-American male ballet corps dancer. The children were amazed to learn of the dedication and practice required to prepare for professional ballet performances. Each child was presented with a vintage keepsake program book signed by Lauren Anderson, the first African-American promoted to principal dancer at the Houston Ballet in 1990. The children were allowed to view and touch props showcased during the ballet, including the legendary carriage that transports Clara and the Nutcracker Prince throughout this classic Christmas ballet.

augusta, ga southeastern REGION Augusta Chapter children, teens and families experienced a STEM lesson of a lifetime when they visited Atlanta’s Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Spelman College and the CNN center in February 2016.

K-5th graders toured a histology and microbiology lab, viewed a real cadaver’s brain, studied about DNA and RNA, and learned about human skeletal bones followed by a skeleton building activity. The teens and tweens studied X-ray densities then participated in a scientific bath bomb experiment.

The STEM activities were followed by current students sharing their HBCU collegiate experiences and culminated with a “HBCU Linkage” family tour of Morehouse and Spelman’s campuses.

CNN’s world headquarters culminated the STEM lesson. Children and teens enjoyed an upclose look at global news in the making, received exclusive, behind-the-scenes views of CNN studios and an exciting glimpse of broadcasting. What a day of STEM and HBCU linkage in action for the Augusta Chapter!

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greater north atlanta, ga southeastern REGION Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Greater North Atlanta Chapter, in partnership with the Georgia Tech Center for Education, Integrating Science, Mathematics (C.E.I.S.M.C), and Computing; the US Navy – Office of Diversity; and Morehouse College - Office of Health Professions, hosted the “AIM for the Power of STEM+A” conference at Georgia Tech.

Underrepresented groups are lacking in the professional fields of medicine, science, and technology. The conference goal was to expose underrepresented students, specifically those of African American or Hispanic descent, to a wide range of healthcare careers to highlight the importance of education in the science, technology, engineering, and math (S.T.E.M.) fields.

Over 200 middle and high school students participated. The program also included an exhibit forum for students called ‘S.T.E.M. and Mentoring Symposium’ where healthcare and S.T.E.M. professionals, from various disciplines, set up an interactive ‘hands on demonstration’ display highlighting various aspects of their profession.

knoxville, tn southeastern REGION The Knoxville Chapter Whats ‘N Whys/ Primary and Intermediates (WWPI) children in preschool through grade 4 visited the Living Light House at the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge (Tennessee) to learn about energy efficiency. By touring this 750 square foot, zero-energy structure and participating in an engaging session by “Mr. Photon,” the children gained a better understanding about caring for the earth and developing conservation practices. This activity emphasized the importance of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics - STE[+A]M - by allowing the children to see how each discipline interacts to create a house that is powered by solar energy and learn of its benefits to planet earth. The group had blast learning about the practical applications of solar energy through cooking a hot dog using their handmade “solar ovens!”

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lake spivey, ga southeastern REGION STEAM (science, technology, arts & math) enrichment is important because its interdisciplinary approach pervades all aspects of our lives.

The Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter’s 3rd - 5th graders embarked upon a STEAM activity at the Microsoft Game Making Lab at Lenox Square Sunday, January 31, 2016. The fun and engaging activity required our gamers to use problemsolving, critical thinking, collaboration and communication skills to explore game design and animation through coding and computer programming. Participants watched a video introducing them to coding and worked in pairs using Microsoft laptops to create their own online game, its story and animation with the help of Microsoft coding experts. This high impact, hands-on experience provided the opportunity for participants to connect with the rapidly advancing world of computer science and technology. Our children expressed excitement throughout the activity and impressed the Microsoft experts with their eagerness to learn and ultimate mastery of the coding concepts.

macon, ga southeastern REGION The Jack and Jill of America Macon Chapter sponsored a chapterwide excursion on November 22, 2015 to Plains Georgia to the Maranatha Baptist Church to see the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, teach Sunday School. President Carter discussed foreign affairs as well as political issues such as the importance of the Civil Rights Movement. The Jack and Jill Family also attended church service with the First Family. The Jack and Jill Family were able to fellowship with the First Family prior to Sunday School and church service, and after church service during a photo opportunity. Busy Bees and Curious Hare kids enjoyed Children’s Church and snacks at the Maranatha Baptist Church. After Church service, the Jack and Jill Family dined at one of President Carter’s favorite eateries in Plains, Mimmie’s Diner, which features country cooking.

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mississippi gulf coast, ms southeastern REGION In October, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter met at the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum for Chugga Chugga Choo Choo. The headliner was African American conductor Tim Sharpley.

Mr. Sharpley guided the kids through the museum speaking about trains, how trains operate, and the duties and functions of a Conductor/railroad staff.

The children were ecstatic to play with model trains, ride on the children and adult trains, and operate hand paddled trains in the outdoor play area. A private party room was set up for a luncheon. The children each received gifts bags which were netted book bags, train conductor hats with MGCC Jack and Jill round pins, and more trinkets. At the conclusion of the program, Mr. Sharpley was presented with a gold plaque on behalf of MGCC of Jack and Jill, and a 50 dollar donation was given to museum on behalf of the organization.

montgomery, al southeastern REGION The Moms of the Montgomery (AL) Chapter has been busy engaging all of our children and teens in grade group specific STEaM activities. Our youngest grade group, Lollipops, became elite scientist for a morning at their Mad Science Fair. Understanding the origins of music and making an instrument was the focus for our Button and Bows grade group’s Music and Culture event. To infinity and beyond floating with the stars was where our Twixt and Tweens spent an afternoon visiting the W.A. Gayle Planetarium. Junior Teens’ STEaM Camp gave them the opportunity to compete as teams to see who would be the first to build the best robot and race them through an obstacle course. Our senior teens experienced the day in the life of Healthcare professionals. They had the opportunity to become CPR certified, participate in the nutritional fun facts game and learned how to perform sutures.

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nashville, tn southeastern REGION With funds received through the Jacqueline Robinson Grant, the Nashville Chapter implemented the Engineering Your Path: Full STE[A]M Ahead program for 63 fourth through sixth grade public, private and/or home schooled students from the greater Nashville community. The program, offered between September and November 2015, centered on providing students with a clear understanding of the academic expectations related to STE[A]M (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) professions; and assisted them with developing critical thinking skills and leadership skills as well as an appreciation for active community engagement. The students worked individually and in teams on problems that represent those commonly found in the pursuit of a STE[A]M career. Participants who completed the program gained new academic perspectives and confidence in STE[A]M disciplines and were even given a laptop donated through the efforts of a Nashville Chapter dad.

tuskegee, al southeastern REGION Taking full advantage of Tuskegee, AL and Tuskegee University’s rich history and resources the children and teens of the Tuskegee Chapter of Jack and Jill participated in three STE{A}M activities. The children and teens toured the century old Macon County Courthouse and Bell Tower and learned about its history and mechanics of the bell. They discovered what it takes to keep the bell running and in working order.

They also visited Tuskegee University’s School of Engineering and participated in hands on demonstrations in Micro, Mechanical and Areospace Engineering. They were able to fly similated airplaines into the same airport where the Tuskegee Airmen trained. They also toured the Tuskegee Airmen Museum on Black Family Day and completed the day with picnic and games.

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Chapter Programming 2016

financial literacy

NINEVAH RUDOLPH LOWERY Far West Region Program Chair

“I believe that through knowledge and discipline, financial peace is possible for all of us.”

–dave ramsey

J

ust as founder Marion Stubbs Thomas dreamed more than 78 years ago, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated continues a legacy of growth and development of children through educational programs.

A strong component of our Educational Programming Thrust includes Financial Literacy.

In a global economy that boasts $199 trillion in debt, financial education is essential for children to understand the impact of financial decision-making on personal and total economic fiscal health. Committed to cultivating leaders through distinctive and effective fiscal programming Jack and Jill of America partnered with Merrill Lynch and the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship, Incorporated (NFTE) to bring “Investing Pays Off”® Financial Modules to our children. We want to be sure that our youth have the tools necessary for financial stability and success.

With national recognition offered yearly to youth in grades 3rd – 12th, for completing a minimum of four of the fifteen modules, we challenge every region, every chapter, and

every mother member to capitalize on the JMB Financial Modules and educational resources so that our future leaders are prepared to outrival the current trend of rising household debt and engage in smart manageable financial agreements.

In response, chapters across the nation have organized distinctive and effective financial training. Bank tours, group discussions, shopping exercises, and spending/saving activities are just a few of the many creative ways leaders throughout the organization are engaging youth in financial education.

Chapters have resourcefully found facilitators and ideas to drive age appropriate training through business professionals and other partnerships right in their own communities.

We are indeed creating leaders of tomorrow through distinctive and effective leadership and financial training. Your Power to Make a Difference prepares children in our communities to make smart money choices and be fiscally responsible in their lives. Our children, Make Them Leaders, We Must!

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BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD EASTERN REGION This program year the Baltimore County chapter’s 3rd, 4th and 5th graders created a year-long project- “Entrepreneurship and Ice Cream.” Mothers planned activities to educate children about the importance and benefits of being self-employed (Leadership in Action )and pursuing their passion, while incorporating the fun aspects of ice cream. Each activity included a short lesson, an application and ended with social fun- eating ice cream! Through age appropriate lessons, the children are learning about putting together a business plan, how to make a profit (Financial Literacy), evaluating competition within the industry, creating marketing materials and artwork, the importance of calories and the relationship between food consumption and exercise (Healthy Living) and finally using the business to give back to the community (Philanthropy).

NEWTON, MA EASTERN REGION On November 21, 2015, the children in the Newton Chapter’s Upper Elementary Group participated in a “Basics of Banking” workshop at OneUnited Bank, a black-owned bank in Boston. The workshop focused on the module, the Basics of Banking & Budgeting. During this program, the children were introduced to the basic concepts of banks and banking and how to keep a budget. The children were also able to explain the difference between credit unions and banks, to distinguish between earned and gift money and between necessities and desires, and to see the inner workings of a bank. The children also learned about fixed expenses and variable expenses and learned how to be a smart shopper. At the conclusion of the program, the children received a copy of “I Got Bank: What My Granddad Taught Me About Money” authored by Teri Williams, an Associate and former member of the Jack and Jill Newton Chapter and owner of OneUnited Bank.

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CINCINNATI, OH MID-WESTERN REGION The Cincinnati Chapter Senior Teens hosted their 1st annual Cincinnati Super Saturday on February 13, 2016. The theme “Building Bridges to Leadership and Network Opportunities” attracted over 50 teens from the tri-state area to take advantage of leadership workshops facilitated by local community leaders.

The agenda included sessions on legislative advocacy, social and cultural issues, with a focus on financial literacy. The workshop entitled “It’s All About The Benjamins”, sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, discussed the importance of investing and other financial planning to prepare for college and beyond. The keynote speaker was City Council Member Yvette Simpson who addressed the teens about leadership and networking during a soul food luncheon. The power packed day concluded with a career speed networking session with experts from 7 different professionals, a teen party to connect socially, have fun in a safe environment and to raise funds for the Jack and Jill Foundation.

SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN, MI MID-WESTERN REGION The Southwestern Michigan Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. hosted a Family Forum and Luncheon in honor of Jack and Jill/Carole Robertson Day. The activity was also a fundraiser as tickets were sold to the event and donations were received from the community for a silent auction. Our theme was “We’ve Got the Power”. Seminars were conducted in age appropriate breakout sessions for children and parents. The seminars included expert panelists on financial literacy, education and wellness. An Educational Excellence Panel-the Write Stuff; Healthy-“You” niversity and Financial Awareness, “Put Some Aside” were a few of the entitled sessions. Panelists were either Mother Members of the Chapter, Jack and Jill Fathers or other respected members in the community. A plated luncheon was included and opened with a video-slide presentation on Carole Robertson.

The luncheon also included story-telling, and browsing the vendors and silent auction.

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RED RIVER, LA SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Red River Chapter Tots through Teens had a day of fun at Texas Road House. Jacks and Jill’s enjoyed age appropriate activities hosted by the restaurant manager including but not limited to a facility tour, line dancing, decorating the restaurant floor with chalk, and a managerial and economic aspect of running a restaurant. Mothers (including perspective mothers), and children completed the experience with a lunch prepared for them at the restaurant.

SOUTH BELT- HOUSTON, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Oh the power to make a difference in shaping the minds and visions of our Children who will mold the future! South Belt Houston’s Young Achievers Grade Group (6th-8th) experienced a tangible lesson in financial awareness and responsibility during October’s activity at Amegy Bank. Attendees were lectured about how money works and how to properly manage it. They were then taken on a guided tour of the bank’s behindthe-scenes, and allowed entry into the bank vault where they learned why the vault is essential to the bank’s branch. Our Young Achievers ended their bank visit by opening up their very own personal student (minor) accounts so that they could begin their personal financial journeys, while putting all they’d learned into practice!

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BUCKHEAD/ATLANTA, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Buckhead Atlanta chapter’s 3rd and 4th graders learned about financial responsibility and shopping on a budget with a Budget Shopping Excursion Trip.

The children were grouped by gender and had to buy a week’s worth of nonperishables for a family of four. Boys had to buy for breakfast and girls had to buy for dinner. The children used coupons and “buy one get one” deals to stretch their dollars. Some of them even brought their own piggy banks to supplement the budget. The children each had roles such as a budget monitor/calculator, buggy pusher, and item selector.

Both groups came within $5 of their budget. The experience taught the children how to save money, budget for other family necessities, and how to use coupons. At the end of the shopping trip, the children donated their total purchase of about $90 worth of groceries to the local food bank.

DUNWOODY/ATLANTA, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION At a Kidz Art Class at Sips N Strokes, our Azaleas Group (Grade 1-3) completed the Financial Literacy Module on budgeting.

The children created watercolor masterpieces under the instruction of a professional artist. They were guided step-by-step from blank canvas to finished works of art.

Our inquisitive bunch then toured the studio, asked a multitude of questions and learned how an art studio business is run. Afterwards, for the Financial Literacy Module, each child was given $20 in Monopoly money and instructions on a purchasing exercise that required them to maintain their budget and fulfill the purchasing requirements. Since many of the children had money left over, the exercise wrapped up with teaching the children about the importance of saving and including saving as a part of a budget. The exercise was interactive and simple, yet impactful. Learning about budgeting and saving was FUN! SCOPE 2016

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TALLAHASSEE, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION Parents everywhere are searching for the best methods to teach children about the importance of fiscal responsibility. The Tallahassee Chapter of Jack and Jill of America proved that it’s never too early to start teaching this valuable lesson with their January 2016 activity. The chapter’s Lollipops and Gems & Jewels activity, affectionately titled Young Money Masters focused on responsible spending, saving, and sharing.

Father Emerson Thompson talked with the children about making wise financial decisions.

After the talk, each of the children received a Moonjar – piggy bank. The Moonjar is divided into three sections: spend, save, and share; each act is equally important. They also received the accompanying book, How the Moonjar was Made, by Eulalie Scandiuzzi. To conclude the event, the children went shopping! Each child was given $5.00 to “shop” for lunch. Overall this multi-layered activity about financial literacy released the Power to Make a Difference!

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Chapter Programming 2016

leadership development MELISSA JOHNSON

South Central Region Program Chair

T

he core of the Jack and Jill of America philosophy is that every child - if given the proper guidance and opportunity - can be developed into a leader. It is this commitment to youth that drives the organization and its growing roster of members in communities from coast to coast. One of the hallmarks of Jack and Jill is its emphasis on youth development through our youth leadership program.

Whether it is through skill enhancement or understanding the concepts of integrity, Jack and Jill has become a national icon in creating effective leaders.

JACQUELINE MOORE BOWLES LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM The Jacqueline Moore Bowles Leadership Development Program is designed to develop leadership skills. Introduced in 2006, the program has provided the tools to teach how to effectively lead.

Leadership Modules The Leadership Modules guide youth and teens as they embrace skills necessary to lead. Youth and Teens have access to modules specially designed to nurture the leader within.

Important concepts such as Public Speaking and Conflict Resolution are just two examples of critical leadership skills found in these modules. When these tools are combined with the innovative programs and creativity of our mothers. Amazing learning happens!

I encourage you to seek inspiration from the sensational programming that is nurturing our future leaders!

“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.”

–DOUGLAS MACARTHUR

“Leadership is an action, not a position.”

–DONALD MCGANNON SCOPE 2016

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SOUTH SUBURBAN DENVER, CO CENTRAL REGION Leadership development is a focus for the South Suburban Denver Chapters junior teens. The National Black Engineers gathered the pre-teens at CU Boulder for a tour of the campus with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). NSBE students prepared and facilitated an informative STEAM activity with JJSSDC Junior teens. The NSBE students also serve as a resource and role models to many of the kids, particularly those interested in engineering. This program is highly interactive and allows our junior teens to demonstrate their public speaking skills, network at the next level leadership and most importantly begin to consider engineering as a career choice.

TULSA, OK CENTRAL REGION The Power to make a difference and make leaders, are outlined in the “7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, or in this case “Highly Effective Teens”. Our preteen group has taken on the task of reading and reviewing the book as they transition to their teen years. Some of the effective habits shared are “Start with the Big stuff”, ‘Review, reread” ‘Don’t be a slacker and/ or procrastinate’. These habits, which the Tulsa preteens are sharing and discussing among themselves, help resolve some of the challenges they face when deciding between homework and activities. They have used conference calls and face to face meetings to review the habits and offer their own experiences and suggestions for improvements in those habits to become better students and leaders. The activity gives the preteens an opportunity to practice leading and facilitating group discussions as well as preparing them for our annual Oratorical competition.

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BOSTON, MA EASTERN REGION The Boston Chapter is recommending our May 2015 Intermediate group’s activity for outstanding programming. On May 16, 2015, 8 of our children in grades 4 & 5 gathered together to face off and debate their position on two issues: Homework- should teachers assign or not? Also, allowance- should parents give allowances? This was a leadership development, education and legislative based activity. The children were assigned a position prior to the activity and all came prepared and ready to put forth their argument in a one-on-one debate with their peers. This purpose of this activity was to engage the children in a discussion about our judicial system. Additionally, it gave them an opportunity to learn how to advocate, practice their public speaking skills, and engage in a debate about issues about fairness. There were no winners or losers, rather the children determined which arguments seemed more convincing.

BRONX, NY EASTERN REGION Leadership in the Bronx Bronx Jack and Jill of America teens kicked off their programming year by organizing a Back to School drive for the Edenwald Houses in the Bronx. The teens fully executed this charitable task from start to finish; some of their duties included writing donation letters; going to retail stores to solicit donations; organizing drop off locations in advance of the event; advertising the flyer; hosting the event at the Bronx Edenwald Community Center and personally giving away over 60 backpacks filled with school supplies.

In December 2015 they attended their teen leadership retreat at John Jay College where they worked on their modules and discussed what it means to be a true leader. Each teen donated two new pairs of pajamas for the ‘One Million Good Nights’ initiative for children in need.

In January 2016 their Winter Wonderland event raised over $1300 for the POTS organization in the Bronx.

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GREATER ALBANY, NY EASTERN REGION The Greater Albany Chapter’s Age Group I activity for January was all about Leadership skills. The children had a great time learning about what good leaders do. First, children received a “Pep Talk” from the Kid President on-line… Good leaders get good advice from others! Next, they drew pictures of what they wanted to be when they grow up… Good leaders set goals!

Next, each child went through an obstacle course, as the other children gave them directions on what to do… Good leaders listen to others! Lastly, the children had to build a large structure out of toothpicks and marshmallows…Good leaders cooperate with others! To end the activity, the children shared a “trail mix” with each child’s favorite snack as an ingredient. Proving that learning about leadership skills could be educational, fun, and yummy!

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA EASTERN REGION Leadership Development was our primary goal as LCVC 4th through 7th graders participated in activities starting in October designed to hone their public speaking skills and prepare them for a Poetry Cafe in December. During our October Writing Workshop, children were asked to write a description about themselves using letters from their favorite word and present it together with table topics. This unique exercise demonstrated the joy and magic of melding words and language. At Mock Elections in November, our children campaigned for candidates and debated the merits of potential legislation. Brimming with newfound skills, our children then confidently recited original and familiar poetry, quoted passages from favorite books, and treated the group to violin and modern dance performances at their December Poetry Cafe Holiday Party. Celebrating their success with food, dance and fellowship, our children learned the power to make a difference through strong communication and leadership skills.

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NASSAU COUNTY, NY EASTERN REGION On Saturday, January 9, 2016, the Nassau County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. hosted their eighth annual Teen Summit in partnership with Adelphi University and the Nassau County District Attorney’s office. With more than 225 students in attendance to take part in this year’s theme of “Teens with Courage to Conquer,” the 39 interactive seminars with over 90 presenters were filled with students and their parents being introduced to over 21 potential careers, most of which focused on STEAM, and learning about time management, teen empowerment, public speaking, college preparation, and more. Finishing the day with two scholarships totaling over $2,000 awarded to deserving seniors attending the Summit, the Annual Teen Leadership Summit of Nassau County Chapter of Jack and Jill continues to prove successful in supporting and giving back to young people in the Long Island community.

RESTON, VA EASTERN REGION In the 2015-2016 Program Year, Reston Junior Teens have focused on the “Power to Make A Difference” through Leadership Development. On Sunday, November 8, the teens invited award-winning Black author Kwame Alexander for “A Conversation with Kwame Alexander.”

In preparation, the teens read Mr. Alexander’s novel “The Crossover,” which tackles topics such as sibling rivalry and African-American health, while offering positive depictions of Black fatherhood. Crossover follows two twin brothers who share a love for basketball but find themselves drifting apart as they head into their junior high school years. It is told entirely in verse, which delighted the teens.

Mr. Alexander engaged the teens in a frank discussion about his owns failures and successes as an author. He spoke frankly about how and why he self-published Crossover, after being rejected from multiple pulishers. The message projected to the Junior Teens was to know your worth and NEVER give up!

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ROCKLAND-ORANGE, NY EASTERN REGION Rockland Orange County Teens exhibited their Leadership Skills by focusing on a Community Service project that gives to those that are less fortunate. The Birthday Giving Project, led by Teen President London Armstrong and the Senior Teens, is designed to help families by providing a Small Birthday Party in a Bag. The Senior teens worked with our Pre-teens to collect items including candles, cake mix, frosting, party decorations, and an age appropriate gift. As a team, they then wrapped gifts, sorted the items and discussed the importance of giving back to our communities. They were successful in creating 17 Birthday Bags and included hand written cards. The Senior Teens worked directly with the executives at Family to Family and People to People, two Non-for-Profit Organizations, to identify the appropriate recipients. The Teens were able to continue to build Leadership Skills, Provide Service and understand Their Power to Make a Difference!

INGLEWOOD, CA FAR WEST REGION On March 7, 2015, the Inglewood Chapter organized a Cradle to College Seminar where Groups 3 and 4 participated in activities around the college admissions process on the beautiful campus of Loyola Marymount University. Led by mother members Associate Director of Alumni Affairs and Director of College Counseling, children participated in campus tours, “College Bingo” and “Scavenger Hunts” featuring admissions requirements for top HBCU’s and other colleges in the U.S. and abroad. A seminar was also organized for the Teen Group where College Counseling Director led a mock review of college applications to give teens insight on the admissions process. As a recipient of the Jacqueline Robinson Grant, the chapter will host the College Access Preparing Students (CAPS) College Day on the campus of LMU on April 9, 2016, to provide college readiness tools to families residing in Inglewood City and those assisted by our community partner, Midnight Mission Housing.

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LOS ANGELES, CA FAR WEST REGION What an amazing activity! Jack and Jill Los Angeles hosted 53 teens at our annual Teen Summit in January 2016. The event was attended by the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley Chapter, Groups 4, 5A & 5B teens. The day consisted of a series or interactive games designed to build Leadership, Communication and financial literacy skills. All of the exercises utilized the Jacqueline Parker Bowles modules of: Setting something aside, Budgeting, Communication Building and Leadership skills. Fulcrum Learning systems lead our teens through a series of interactive games, including Rock Climbing, High Wire scaling and Minecraft games designed to teach the participants how to set Smart goals, consider the community around you, communicate with your partner to achieve your desired goals, and to budget your money to save for a rainy day. Through these highly skilled activities, each teen was confronted with choices, fears, and obstacles that were impactful!

COLUMBIA, SC MID-ATLANTIC REGION Many have faulted the Black Lives Matter Movement for highlighting or singling out one ethnic group to exclude others; but, if one were to really look at staggering statistics that paints a picture of disproportionate injustices, one would understand that the conversation must take place in that context. Ultimately, The Black Lives Matter Movement should not be singularly viewed as a one ethnic group issue simply because of the platform it is using. In January, while using that platform, the Columbia Chapter partnered with the Columbia Museum of Art to bring awareness to the issue of gun control legislation with a weekend of events. The chapter hosted a free community screening of the film Fruitvale Station with a solution-focused panel discussion that followed. The chapter also participated in the annual SC Day at the Dome ceremonies.

Jacks and Jills solicited signatures for a gun control petition created by the chapter.

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FLORENCE, SC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Florence Chapter hosted a Leadership Day for children grades pre-K through 12th. The day featured two workshops for each age group. One workshop was on effective communication and the other was on financial literacy.

After each workshop a raffle was done. The prizes were age appropriate books related to the workshop topic. Participants were asked to bring a donation of baby diapers. The diapers were presented to our local Nurse Family Partnership. Participants were able to learn about Nurse Family Partnership’s goal to help babies start off on the right path to a successful life. Children from the Florence Boys and Girls Club were invited to attend. The Conway chapter was also invited to attend the event.

SOUTH CHARLOTTE, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The fabulous South Charlotte chapter hosted its second Legislative Day/ Leadership Summit in January. During Legislative Day, the South Charlotte chapter proved they had “The Power to Make a Difference” by meeting with local elected officials to learn more about the political process. Nearly ten talented South Charlotte Jack and Jill teens were selected to serve as Pages in the North Carolina House of Representatives and Senate.

In the afternoon, more than 200 children and their parents from the South Charlotte, Charlotte, Queen City, and Gastonia-Piedmont chapters attended the Leadership Summit that focused on training and development for 3rd- 12th graders. Parents from all the Charlotte area chapters participated and led modules that focused on public speaking, leadership and financial literacy.

The South Charlotte chapter delivered on the promise of Jack and Jill by fostering leadership development, a sense of unity and a better tomorrow for all children.

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WINSTON-SALEM, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION Etiquette: the conduct required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life. Recognizing that any successful leader should have a strong foundation in etiquette, the Winston-Salem Chapter committed to including one event focused on the importance of etiquette for each Age Group this Program Year. Events were age appropriate ranging from Afternoon Tea at the O’Henry Hotel for the youngest of our children with a focus on the basics of dining etiquette, to lunch at the High Point Country Club for our Lads & Lassies with more advanced dining etiquette and an introduction to social norms. Finally, the Junior Teens had a formal dinner following a Symphony performance with an introduction to the more complex place setting and formal dining atmosphere, while the Senior Teens have a session planned around college preparation while covering interview and business etiquette.

CHICAGO CHAPTER, IL MID-WESTERN REGION The Chicago Chapter is committed to Leadership in Action; it is our programming focus and visible through our work in charitable programs and community enrichment. Our younger members and chapter mothers worked enthusiastically to support the Chicago #lunchbag initiative; delivering lunches in decorative bags with positive, handwritten notes. These meals were delivered to those in need throughout the city. Similarly, our Teens continue to lead by example; equipping themselves with information to empower their peers and our community.

In light of the violence involving unarmed African-Americans, our Teens engaged in a handson demonstration with retired Chicago police officer, Celestine Clark. Ms. Clark provided our children with protocol for police interaction, as well as appropriate methods to exercise their rights to protest. The entire Chicago Chapter is in alignment with our national goals of excellence in our community; our Power to Make a Difference is at the core of every initiative.

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CLEVELAND, OH MID-WESTERN REGION In collaboration with Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Chapter hosted an Academic Success “Cradle to College” Community Forum. The event began with a sitdown breakfast and fellowship in recongnition of Black Family Day. The first interactive event, was a phenominal presentation on the implementation of Ohio’s common core educational standards and the current state of education in the Greater Cleveland area. During the second half of the morning, families with younger children were presented a session related to early childhood education for children in pre-kindergarten through third grade. Families with high school students participated in a college preparedness workshop with guidance counselors, admissions counselors, and financial aid advisors who shared best practices for a successful college application process. As an added bonus, chapter tweens and moms paired up with non JJOA youth for board games and literacy activities. The chapter wide activity was held on Saturday, May 2, 2015.

GREATER GRAND RAPIDS, MI MID-western REGION The Greater Grand Rapids Chapter hosted the “Trial of the Century” this past fall as the Big Bad Wolf faced trial. This activity for our children in age groups 2-4 provided exposure to the judicial process. The activity was hosted in a real mock trial room at a local law school. This thrilling case featured our Jack and Jill children as the defendants, plaintiffs, bailiff, clerk, and counsel for both sides. Our budding litigators were aided by current law students who offered insights into real courtroom procedure.

An African-American law student presided over the trial as the judge. After the information was presented, the children were then led away to the jury room to deliberate over who was guilty and who was innocent. The jury foreperson delivered the verdict back to our judge. The activity was fun, informative, and truly was the “Trial of the Century.”

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NORTH SHORE, IL MID-WESTERN REGION On October 24th – 25th the North Shore Chapter teen group met at a member’s home for the J&J Lock In and Fireside Chat. Former State Representative David Miller talked with the teens about civic duties and legislative issues confronting today’s youth. Representative Miller is an African American leader in both government and the private sector. This civic, legislative educational experience allowed the teens to learn about the electoral process. After the fireside chat, the teens socialized with a movie, dinner and sleep-over. This activity included completion of the JMB Leadership Module 16: Legislative. The overnight experience was capped off with a continental breakfast in the morning.

ST. LOUIS, MO MID-WESTERN REGION On November 14, 2015, Jack & Jill St. Louis 7th & 8th Graders embarked on an adventure of Civil Rights in St. Louis. The day began with conversations with Mrs. Frankie Freeman, local civil rights lawyer and first woman appointed to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and Dr. Donald Suggs, owner of the St. Louis American newspaper. Then they boarded a bus for a look at numerous historic sites around St. Louis that helped shape the movement, led by Dr. John Wright, Sr., local historian and author. Sites visited included the Black Walk of Fame, Mary Meachum Freedom Slave Crossing at the Mississippi River, Shelley v. Kraemer house that was subject of the U.S. Supreme Court case that held racial covenants on real estate could not be enforced and the location where Michael Brown was killed. Thirteen children attended with their moms enjoying a day of learning our history. This was an educational experience that taught our children the true meaning of leading by example.

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GREATER CHANNEL, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Greater Channel Chapter held the 1st EVER Jack and Jill Youth Candidates Forum led by the chapter teens and pre-teen groups with participation from local political candidates. Assigned teens were able to use public speaking skills as they made candidate biographical introductions and moderated the debate. The teens developed questions on issues that mattered to them and to the community. Youths from community schools and area Jack and Jill chapters were in attendance and were also able to ask questions. After the audience evaluated the candidates, an online election was held with instant results. It is important that our youths understand the importance and power of their voices through their vote and this forum provided an excellent learning opportunity for our youths continuing in the National focus on leadership development. The Greater Channel Chapter youth raised the bar to cultivate GREAT leaders for tomorrow.

HOUSTON, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION The Youth Empowerment Summit (YES) is a model for community engagement and leadership training. With over 150 attendees, the impact of the interactive sessions provides for local tweens/teens to experience the value of the Jack and Jill, Inc. Jacqueline M. Bowles Modules.

Chapter teens demonstrate leadership, collaboration, public speaking and problem solving skills. Youth in our surrounding community depart with hope and a desire to achieve. Teens, mothers and fathers of the Chapter facilitate the activities within each workshop.

The 2016 Youth Empowerment Summit (YES) is a day long series of workshops focused on college and high school readiness. Through three themed-based workshops, each teen will be equipped with the tools to communicate and understand their value during the college and high school admissions processes. A parent workshop details the admissions and financial aid processes. The Summit concludes with a presentation of awards and prizes.

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ALBANY, GA SOUTHEASTERN REGION It takes a whole village to raise a child! Twelve young men representing 7 different high schools in the Albany, GA area are being mentored by a village of male elders and Jack & Jill Mothers for the 18th Biennial Beautillion Rites of Passage journey. The theme for this 2015-16 Beau class is Invictus: Unconquerable, Unbowed, Unafraid. From July 2015-March 2016, these young men have mastered gourmet cooking, mentoring of young children, financial literacy, ballroom dancing, personal wellness, public speaking and have given over 250 hours of community service. They have worshipped together, celebrated Kwanza together, raced around downtown Albany learning the history of the Albany Civil Rights movement, continued the tradition of oral history of their family’s elders, and built a bond that will last a lifetime. We salute these future leaders and the African-American males in our community that have poured into them as a part of their village!

JACKSONVILLE, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION The Teens of the Jacksonville Chapter planned and organized their first Teen Summit. This leadership targeted event allowed teens to pair with chapter mothers in subcommittees to organize the event. Teens led the charge to secure presenters, plan refreshments and organize registration. The committee facilitated an opening session on Teen Empowerment with break out sessions of interest to the teens-Protecting Your Brand, Sports Science, Workplace/ Business Etiquette and Tattoos & Their Long-Term Effects. The summit was organized similarly to Teen Conference with participanting teens selecting a session to attend and providing feedback to the sponsors on the sessions. With the Power to Make a Difference the first summit not only included guest teens, who participated in sessions, but was one of the most well attended events of the programming year. The sessions were informative for both the teens and mothers in attendance.

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ORLANDO, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION Our Jr. Teen group had the opportunity to apply the Communications / Public Speaking module and develop a 2 minute presentation entitled What Leadership Means to Me through the guidance of TOASTMASTERS seminar titled 10 Tips for Successful Public Speaking. The program helped our children focus their attention away from their anxieties, concentrate on the message and learn that confidence is essential to effective public speaking.

During the activity, awards were given out to the Most Enthusiastic Speaker, Chloe Calhoun and Best Speaker 1st place Amira Ali and 2nd place DaiJah Francois. At the end of the activity, our children’s leadership skills were developing and their confidence levels were elevated to an alltime high. All participants received a public speaking 101 Certificate of Completion.

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South Suburban Chicago, il MID-WESTERN REGION Costumes, Pumpkins, and Service…

Oh my! South Suburban Chicago teens partnered with our local Boys and Girls Club to sponsor an afterschool Halloween party for over 100 children. They donated outerwear and backpacks filled with needed schools supplies. The activities led by the teens included but were not limited to face painting, arts & crafts, and dance competitions.

They donated and served pizza during the event as well. South Suburban Chicago teens were instrumental in having the use of a bounce house by a Jack Pac Dad. Our teens were spectacular and the children enjoyed themselves. The teens led all of the activities throughout the day and garnered service hours, while incorporating the ‘Service and Sacrifice’ JMB Leadership Module into the event. What a wonderful example of the ‘Power to Make a Difference’ even while having fun!

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Chapter Programming 2016

recreational social HELEN GRIFFITH

Mid-Atlantic Region Program Chair

W

e have all heard the phrase “all work and no play makes Jack (or Jill) a dull boy (or girl).” While cliché, it is true. Only focusing on the work of Jack and Jill will lead to boredom and burn out. Participation in meetings and activities will decline and programming will suffer. This is true for both the children and the mothers.

When Marion Stubbs Thomas founded Jack and Jill, she considered the idea of bringing children together to develop strong social relationships a cornerstone of the organization.

For children to operate successfully in society, they must develop skills in the art of interacting well with others in a healthy, positive, and productive manner. Parents must prepare children to become successful adults, by encouraging social interaction, monitoring social skills, and teaching ways to interact with other children and with adults.

Socialization skills are developed through a variety of ways including through recreational activities. Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated

provides programming which covers all the objectives our founders had in in mind when they built our great organization. Recreational activities help to develop strong bodies and minds. Playing together, learning to have fun is critical to developing a well–rounded person.

Jack and Jill of America provides balanced programs, which cover all of the objectives our founders had in mind when they built our great organization.

Our members take every opportunity to add activities that reduce screen time and increase face-to face time. Socialization builds leadership skills, by fostering environments of collaboration, honing our child’s ability to actively listen, to empathize, and to nurture innovation.

Let’s work, let’s play, let’s live together. Our motto challenges us to embrace our child within and incorporate social and recreational activities into our children’s and mother’s programming on a regular basis. With play, we work and live together – better.

“Let’s Work, Let’s Play, Let’s Live Together.”

–THE JACK AND JILL MOTTO 162

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SAN DIEGO, CA FAR WEST REGION In celebration of their historic 60th anniversary, the San Diego Chapter hosted a celebratory luncheon. There were 68 attendees including mothers who were initiated in the 50’s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and 2000s. The chapter celebrated these woman as part of a legacy of phenomenal black women - pioneers in their day and most importantly, remarkable mothers. Lunch included a commemorative Jack and Jill 60th anniversary pin.

President Leonie Sanders shared news about our chapter and the notable progress over the years. Attendees were elated to know that the chapter is still continuing the traditions that were set many years before. Two children of former members are now active mothers in the chapter.

President Leonie presented Past President Ardelle Matthews (1968) with a “Come Together” painting that was created at this year’s Mother’s Retreat. The event was a huge success and is now forever etched in the chapter’s history books.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, CA FAR WEST REGION Paddle boarding is a unique water sport! This is just one of the enhanced recreational activities hosted by the San Fernando Valley Chapter.

The chapter started the year celebrating Jack and Jill Day with a Hawaiian themed Luau in Malibu. Our chapter loves to have fun. We encourage recreational and social activities for both the children and families in the chapter.

Our recreational activities also encourage bonding with our children. This year, Group 5 began the year with a retreat, Group 4 had a pool party, Group 3 paddle boarding lessons and Groups 1 and 2 welcomed Fall with a harvest celebration. Our mother’s even got in on the fun when they visited a local gallery for dinner and an art lesson.

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GREENSBORO, NC MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Greensboro, NC Chapter organized a family weekend of social, recreational and STE+aM activities. Members, children, and the Father’s Auxiliary made an overnight road trip to Charlotte, NC. A local science center was the site of STE+aM activities for our Rugrats (PreK-K), Awesome Jammers (grades1st-3rd), and Meteors (grades 4th-5th). Science was brought to life with interactive exhibits and experiments that demonstrated principles of physics, chemistry, and biology. For the arts, the children used recycled materials and a lot of creativity to make their own tribal facemasks. The wonders of engineering were experienced when they were transported via train to a venue for an evening of dinner and bowling. The next day was the highlight and capped off the weekend of family fun and home team spirit by attending a Carolina Panthers football game. It was a memorable weekend of hands-on learning and fellowship for the entire family.

RICHMOND, VA MID-ATLANTIC REGION The Richmond Chapter Senior Teens hosted their 1st annual Tailgate and Sizzle: Dads CookOff on January 10, 2016. The Teens decided they would host their event on NFL Playoff Sunday.

Dads, judges and guests were encouraged to wear their favorite jersey as the game played on multiple big screens! The Teens solicited from other age groups gift baskets, baked goods, and other prizes to be auctioned or awarded during the Sizzle .

The celebrity judges consisted of a retired NFL player, an award - winning chef, and a NCAA basketball player. Eight chefs participated, each were given a medal with the winner receiving a trophy to take home. The teens managed several stations – nail painting, face painting, corn hole, Legos, and an obstacle course. After all expenses were paid the teens made a profit of $955 to add to their Foundation contribution. This fundraising event incorporated social, service, civic, and educational opportunities for our teens.

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recreational/social

ANN ARBOR, MI MID-WESTERN REGION Children of all ages, Fathers and our Ann Arbor Mothers participated in a community service activity to support the arts. Our chapter exists within a college community and we are exposed to creative and artistic traditions, such as the Festifools Parade. This event is the kickoff to our city’s Summer Festival. This activity allowed us to tour three art studios where parade characters and luminaries could be made. Families and friends created lanterns for an evening parade. During an afternoon parade, on Main Street, our teens volunteered to be leaders in the parade and entertain the crowds by animating larger than life puppets.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN MID-WESTERN REGION This year the families of the Minneapolis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. gathered at River Park for a day filled with fun, food, fellowship, and remembrance during our annual Jack and Jill Day & Carole Robertson Day Celebration on September 19, 2015. Our Jack and Jill families donated over 100 school and art supplies which included: paper, pens, pencils, crayons, markers and calculators to benefit the Twin Cities Boys and Girls Club as part of our Fall Family Day. Our Teens led the chapter in a touching memorial honoring Carole Robertson. After the ceremony, all of our children wrote a few words in tribute to Carole Robertson. Our Jack and Jill families joined together as several tributes were read and then there was a balloon release by each grade group in remembrance of Carole Robertson. This year’s event was a great opportunity to kick-off our program year.

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GREATER FRISCO, TX SOUTH CENTRAL REGION In October, the Greater Frisco’s teens partnered with the Miracle League of Frisco to make a difference in the lives of mentally and physically challenged children as they prepared for the Fox Trot 5k Run/Walk. Our teens lead a warm up session, played football; walked the track with their buddy; talked about healthy eating and lead a cool down session. Smiles, fun and heartfelt uplifting of spirits was evident as all broke out in laughter. The Miracle League of Frisco is about making new friends, building self esteem and confidence while being treated like any other kid playing a sport. The camaraderie between Greater Frisco teens and their Miracle League buddies exemplified the power children have in making a difference through their actions. Every child deserves the chance to Play!

BREVARD COUNTY, FL SOUTHEASTERN REGION Freestyle, Butterfly, Hole in One, Birdie, Ace, Backhand. The Programming Committee of the Brevard County Chapter welcomed families and friends to a funfilled day of tennis, golfing and swimming at the Suntree Country Club to “kick off” the new programming year. Families enjoyed showcasing skills on the state of the art Challenge Golf Course designed by world renowned Arnold Palmer, acing opponents under the instruction of the club’s tennis pro and freestyling and profiling poolside, Program Director Edna Lawson reminded all about the pioneers that made it possible for generations of African Americans to partake in these luxuries: Althea Gibson. the first black athlete to cross the color line of international tennis, Cullen Andrew Jones, competitive swimmer and Olympic gold medalist, and Professional golfer Robert Lee Elder, who became the first African-American to play in the Masters Tournament in Augusta Georgia in 1975. “Inspiring Excellence”

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The New Face of

Tonya Greene

Member-At-Large, Mid-Atlantic Region

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he Jack and Jill of America Foundation is forging ahead with a refocused mission and clear vision to positively impact our communities. Relying on the results of our recent membership survey, the Foundation Board of Trustees and Foundation Headquarters set out to bring that feedback to fruition. Under the guidance of the D. Wilson Agency, the Jack and Jill of America Foundation has a new Strategic Plan. Through this collaboration, strategies were identified to move the Foundation forward to achieve its mission while remaining aligned with the mission and goals of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

We’ve aligned our philanthropic focus into three areas, African American families, Education, and Health and Wellness. Moving forward our grants and project support will align with these three focus areas. This year, we’ve implemented our Reading Corner Literacy Grant and our National Community Investment Grant. Our

Reading Corner Literacy Grant is the perfect alignment to our Education focus area, while the National Community Investment Grant allows us to tap into our community through every focus area.

We’re equally excited about our new branding and marketing campaign. The new Foundation logo has been updated to align with our beloved Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated colors, further strengthening the connection between the two.

The launch of our new website is yet another aspect of the Strategic plan that we’re proud of. The new and improved website provides a visually appealing platform for us to communicate our priorities and impact and gives you a platform to take action and provide support. Through the review and implementation of the plan, our Foundation is poised to transform African American communities, one child at a time.

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our philosophy

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acked by over 235 Jack and Jill of America, Inc. chapters, we are investing and positively impacting African American communities across the United States.

We began almost 50 years ago with a group of women, who believed in the power of philanthropy and the ability to have a voice in how contributions were spent. Since inception in 1968, we’ve invested millions of dollars in communities all across America.

Today we continue to grow our impact through our vision to transform African American communities, one child at a time.

As the philanthropic arm of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Jack and Jill Foundation’s mission is to address issues affecting African American children and families, by investing in programs and services that create a strong foundation for children to thrive long-term.

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jack and jill of america foundation

2015-2016 GRANT LIST

We are changing our narrative from ‘charity’ to ‘investment’. The Foundation has adopted Impact Philanthropy as a framework for giving and will be investing in programs and services that will demonstrate meaningful impact in communities throughout the United States

INDEPENDENT GRANTS Up to $5,000

HSA Prep Workshop Series New York, NY

Top 20 II East Lansing, MI

“No Body Is Perfect” Baltimore, MD

Joining Artists and Music In Our Schools (JAMS) Birmingham, AL

Where Our Worlds Cross: Life at the Intersections High School Retreat Cleveland, OH

2015 Hope Conference Washington, DC AIM For The Power of STEAM Suwanee, GA Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Mentoring Denver, CO Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington Teen Council Media Initiative Washington, DC Catching the Dreams of Tomorrow Anchorage, AK Cinematique Seattle, WA Code of Life Erie, CO Concepts in a Box Leadership & Film Boot Camp Los Angeles, CA

Let Off Some STEAM! Humble, TX Making College A Reality Des Moines, IA Maternal and Child Health Consortium STEM Project West Chester, PA 12th Annual Education Seminar New York, NY Project Achieve: ACT/ Developmental Studies Support Program Memphis, TN Shine and Strength New Brunswick, NJ STEM Focus Gurnee, IL STEM Saturday Sicklerville, NJ

DARE to Prepare Plano, TX

Summer Leadership Institute Columbia, SC

Delta Scholars Leadership Conference Columbia, MD

Teen Leadership Summit Baldwin, NY

Enhancing Literacy through Technology Concord, NC

The Academic (STEM & Literacy) & Healthy Lifestyle Enrichment Project Englewood, NJ

WILL Seven-Day Appalachian Trail Leadership Expedition Washington, DC Young Ambassadors Leadership Academy West Hills, CA Young Emerging Scientists Des Moines, IA Youth Asset Development Project & Peace Summit Chicago, IL JACQUELINE ROBINSON GRANTS Up to $3,000 Akron Chapter Akron, OH Burlington Graham Chapter Burlington, NC Denver Chapter Aurora, CO East St. Louis Belleville, IL Fayette County Area Chapter Fayetteville, GA Greater Frisco Frisco, TX

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Greater Grand Rapids of Jack and Jill Kentwood, MI

North County San Diego Chapter San Diego, CA

Greater Little Rock Sherwood, AR

North Texas Chapter Lewisville, TX

Greater Tampa Chapter Tampa, FL

Oakland Bay Area Chapter Oakland, CA

Inglewood Chapter Inglewood, CA

Pasadena Pasadena, CA

Orange County Chapter Irvine, CA

Queens NY Chapter Bellerose, NY

Prince George’s County Chapter Bowie, MD

Rockland Orange New City, NY

Detroit Chapter Detroit, MI

Saint Louis, Missouri St. Louis, MO

Jacksonville Florida Chapter Jacksonville, FL

Santa Clarita Valley/Antelope Valley Valencia, CA

Nassau County Chapter Brookville, NY

Savannah Chapter Pooler, GA

Austin Chapter Austin, TX

Seattle Chapter Mercer Island, WA

Jackson MS Chapter Jackson, MS

South Los Angeles Palos Verdes, CA

Jack and Jill Las Vegas Chapter Henderson, NV

South Suburban Chicago Chapter Flossmoor, IL

Long Beach Chapter Long Beach, CA

Southwestern Michigan Chapter Kalamazoo, MI

Memphis Chapter Memphis, TN Montgomery County PA Chapter Lower Gwynedd, PA

Tulsa Chapter Tulsa, OK Windy City Chicago, IL

Motor City Chapter West Bloomfield, MI

Ypsilanti Chapter Canton, MI

New Orleans Chapter New Orleans, LA

Violet Greer Chicago Chapter

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Read to Me Chicago, IL Greensboro, NC Chapter Boys and Girls Club Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED High Point, NC Jacksonville Chapter Teen Leadership Summit Jacksonville, FL North Houston Suburban Christmas Leadership Event Houston, TX

Central Region

Elsie Jackson member-at-large

COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT “Harlem of the West” he teens provided beautification services in the 5 points Historical District which has been referred to as the “Harlem of the West” due to its long jazz history. It was the first predominantly African American neighborhood in Denver in the 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s. Some of the major attractions that are still celebrated in the 5points district are the Black American West and Heritage Center, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble as well as the Blair Caldwell African American Research Library.

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South Suburban Denver Chapters have been great partners with the center. Donations consisted of: Backpacks, each attending teen was asked to bring a variety of traditional backpacks variety of traditional backpacks – the style middle school or high school students would carry and popular character backpacks styles from Disney characters, cartoon characters, TV show characters that pre-school or elementary students would carry.

Toiletries, regular sized products, bars of soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, lotion, mouthwash, deodorant ,shampoo and conditioner

Central Region Teens “beautified” the Historic Black American West and Heritage Center and Stiles African American Heritage Center by providing landscaping assistance, debris removal, planting flowers and painting.

Gift Cards $20 gift cards from Target, JC Penney or Walmart. The goal of the gift cards is to assist families in purchasing clothing for school.

COMMUNITY SERVICE DONATION The Vickers Boys and Girls Club located at 3333 Holly Street, Denver, CO 80207 was the recipient of our community service donation. Both the Denver and

Changing African American Communities in the “Central Region” one Child at a time.

All donated items were presented to the children and the Club’s leadership team.

“…for these are all of our children we profit by or pay for what they become.”

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Eastern Region

akira bell johnson member-at-large

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reetings from the Mighty Eastern Region!

This program year we decided to put a new emphasis on Community Service with the creation of our first regional Community Service committee. This team took on the goals of leading our regional service thrust to “Rock out Hunger and Roll out Literacy” to feed the bodies and mind of at risk youth and families. This is a two part service program geared to combat food insecurity and illiteracy with a goal to serve/donate 500,000 meals and contribute or read 20,000 books.

Chapters around the region kicked off the program year with a book drive at each of our four Mother’s Workdays. Mother’s and teens showed their generosity by donated over 5,000 books that went to various after school programs across the region.

Each book was stamped “Donated from Jack and Jill of America, Inc.” As chapters progressed through the holidays, the season of giving was indeed evident. By the end of December, participating chapters served over 200,000 meals and over 10,000 books. It was a proud season to be a member of the East.

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But most of all, our very first Regional MLK Day of Service really brought to life our Regional theme of “Empowering Families for Success.” In four cities across the region, we held four high impact programs to come together in numbers to serve our communities. We provided care packages to women overcoming domestic violence, served meals to the homeless in Washington, DC, and created care packages, cleaned and stocked emergency shelters in Philadelphia, PA and Newark, NJ. We are especially proud that our families had an opportunity to serve in person and interact with young people that look like them without the resources that they enjoy. In executing our mission to seek for all children, the same opportunities as our own, we gave our children a glimpse of life without the resources they have. Our children came away humbled, and grateful for the opportunity to make an impact for others. They learned to have empathy, responsibility, and to pray with others. They began their own journey to make a difference… “One child at a time.”

Far West Region

vara allen-jones member-at-large

COMMUNITY SERVICE

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uring the Far West Region Teen Conference, our teens and chaperones shared a unique and rare opportunity; the community service event was held at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in Seattle, Washington. The Gates Foundation supports initiatives in education, world health and population, and community giving in the Pacific Northwest. This event was co-sponsored by the Black Philanthropic Partners (BPP) at the Gates Foundation; one of the leaders is a member of the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Seattle Chapter. The objective was to provide teens with an educational experience in philanthropy, leadership development, and community service. Our goal was to enable teens to see philanthropy as a career path and a lifestyle.

To achieve this objective, we also partnered with Treehouse for Kids.

Treehouse for Kids is a Washington based non-profit organization whose mission is to create a world where every child who has experienced a crisis of parenting has opportunities and support to pursue their dreams

and become productive members of their community.

Treehouse serves King County, Washington, providing youth in foster care with essential and academic support and resources to ensure their graduation from high school at the same rate as their peers.

Teens participated in the following sessions, which were facilitated by the Regional Teen Board and parents toured the facilities which housed collectibles from around the world.

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Leadership and US Education Policy Leadership and Global Philanthropic Initiatives College preparation & internships Treehouse For Kids Presentation

After robust dialogue, the teens eagerly demonstrated their commitment to service by stuffing backpacks with school supplies (index cards, mechanical pencils, composition books, colored pencils) for foster children of the Treehouse for Kids organization.

Each teen also wrote an encouraging quote to each recipient. The Far West continues to make a difference one child at a time.

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Mid-Atlantic Region

tonya green member-at-large

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he MARvelous Mid-Atlantic Region is ”Off To Great Places “ through our Programming and Community Service Efforts. This year, the members of the Region continue to support our mission and vison through chapter community service projects. In addition to those efforts, the Region is focused on a yearlong community service project that will culminate during the 63rd Annual Teen Conference. The Cuddle Kits for Homeless and Foster Care Kids project will be assembled and donated to agencies in the southern Virginia area that provide support for homeless and foster care children.

We kicked off our Service year during our Fall Workday in Norfolk, VA hosted by the Norfolk and Portsmouth chapters. During the workday, Mothers and Teens donated the first items, blankets and flashlights for the Cuddle Kits. Support of the project continued during the Children’s Cluster hosted by the Columbia Chapter in Columbia, SC. Under the cluster theme of “My Future is So Bright You’re ‘Gonna Need

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Shades”,Children’s Cluster attendees donated books and socks to contribute to the Cuddle Kits. During the Conference the children wrote notes and drew pictures to include in the kits. It’s our hope that the notes and letters will enhance the kits and brighten the recipient’s day. The Region looks forward to the culmination of the project during our 63rd Annual Teen Conference in Norfolk, VA. Mothers and teens will donate the final items for the Cuddle Kits, including a comfy pillow. Teens will assemble all donated items into one package or kit for donation to local agencies. Our goal is to provide a small tangible source of comfort for these children. Through this Regional project and all our chapter service projects, the MARvelous Mid-Atlantic Region is demonstrating we have “The Power to Make a Difference.” Truly, this Region is “Off to Great Places”, transforming African-American communities, one child at a time.

Mid-Western Region

doborah j. evans member-at-large

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he “Mighty” Mid-Western Region represents 34 chapters that services 8 states. Our mother members are committed to our National Programing thrust and support our regional theme – “Living the Jack and Jill Experience: Mission –Minded, Dream Driven” by delivering innovative and creative programming for our children and all children.

During the fall of every year, our mothers and teens convene for our “Mighty” Mid-Western Region Workday Clusters. The workday clusters are organized geographically within our region, allowing us two opportunities to deliver informational sessions; offer tools that will equip our members and teens with the “Power to Make a Difference” in their local chapters; provide community service and philanthropic giving by servicing the host chapter’s community partner.

Our regional community service theme is -“Breaking Down the Barriers to Quality Education for Youth.”

Our second cluster hosted by the Louisville, KY chapter, has an ongoing relationship with the Neighborhood House a local non-profit communitybased organization in Louisville that works to provide individuals with opportunities to enhance the quality of their lives through educational enrichment. Our region joined the local chapter to “Break Down Barriers to Quality Education” for Neighborhood House youth by promoting STE[A]M education through a JACK AND JILL STE[A]M WEEK at the agency. Moms and Teens donated a combined total of more than 500 calculators and art supplies worth more than $5,000 in giving to the Neighborhood House.

We believe we have “The Power to Make a Difference” in the lives of children and families of our local communities by “Breaking Down the Barriers of Quality Education for Youth” fostering a better tomorrow for all children.

Our first cluster was hosted by the Detroit chapter, who has an ongoing relationship with Alternatives For Girls, a local non-profit that assists homeless and high-risk girls and young women. The Detroit chapter requested school supplies to help children K-12 and some college students for the at-risk youth agency. Over 100 backpacks were collected from our moms and teens. Each backpack was filled with school supplies for the upcoming school year. Our teens provided a backpack promenade to showcase the impact of 100 students receiving backpacks.

The Moms and teens donated over $6,000 worth of backpacks and school supplies to the Alternative For Girls agency.

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South Central Region

sativa leach bowen member-at-large

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION SOUPER BOWL OF CARING THE PARTNERSHIP he South Central Region of Jack and Jill of America started a two year partnership with Souper Bowl of Caring (SBoC) to tackle hunger across Louisiana and Texas. The rate of food insecure households in both states is higher than the national average, so South Central’s twenty-nine chapters hosted local food drives directly benefitting food pantries and soup kitchens that provide food to those in need. South Central Regional families went door to door in their neighborhoods, hosted food donation stations in their local schools and communities to raise awareness and support for this campaign. Chapters across the region collected over $20,000 in food and monetary donations to provide to their communities.

In addition, the South Central Regional Teens, under the leadership of the Regional Teen Foundation Chair, Peyton Bell-Hunter, developed a commemorative t-shirt fundraiser selling over 572 shirts to the Jack and Jill families across the region to wear during their community service drives, this effort raised $2,800 to be distributed amongst the Jack and Jill Foundation of America, Souper Bowl of Caring and the March of Dimes organization.

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“Partnering with Souper Bowl of Caring directly aligns with the mission of Jack and Jill,” says South Central Regional Director, Consuella Guillory-Adams. “It allows our children to support the community in a meaningful and impactful way.” The Regional Teen Foundation Chair, Peyton Bell-Hunter, echoed these sentiments by adding, “The best way for the teens to support this project was do something meaningful that would show our support in more than just words, by our active participation in making a difference. We used our creativity and our Jack and Jill network to go beyond what was expected of each chapter. We are excited to see our idea come to life!”

THE ORGANIZATION Since its inceptions in 1990, Souper Bowl of Caring has collected over $110 million food and monetary donations through local partnerships to eliminate hunger in local communities during the weeks leading up to the Super Bowl weekend. One hundred percent of conations have directly benefitted food banks, pantries and soup kitchens across the nation. “We are proud to welcome Jack and Jill chapters of the South Central region to our growing list of partners,” said Clara Cooper, President and CEO of Souper Bowl of Caring.

Southeastern Region

Dee dawkins-haigler member-at-large

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he 59th Annual Southeastern Region Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Teen Leadership Conference was held in Miami, Florida, June 24-28, 2015. More than seven hundred teens from Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi and Georgia, representing forty-three communities, attended. The teens participated in a community service project called Build-a-Bike which was held at the Overtown Community Center, which is located in an underserved community of Miami, FL. Jack and Jill teens gathered in groups of 7-8 and partnered with a youth from the Overtown Community Center to assemble a bicycle. During the assembly of the bicycles, Jack and Jill Teens discussed bicycle safety with the youth. After the assembly of each bicycle the Jack and Jill teens presented the Overtown youth with the bike. In addition to the bike each youth was presented with pads and helmets. The Southeastern Region Teens donated and built 125 bicycles for the children of the Overtown Community.

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superior chapter program Planning & Handbook Ratings Congratulations to the following chapters that received a superior rating on their chapter programming handbooks for the 2014-2015 program year

CENTRAL REGION Bloomington-Normal, IL Denver, CO Des Moines, IA Greater Little Rock, AR St. Clair County, IL Greater Peoria, IL Kansas City, KS Kansas City, MO Northwest Arkansas, AR Saint Claire County, IL Tulsa, OK

EASTERN REGION Alexandria/Mt. Vernon, VA Arundel Bay Area, MD Baltimore , MD Baltimore County, MD Bergen-Passaic, NJ Boston, MA Bucks County, PA Buffalo, NY Burlington-Willingboro, NJ Central New Jersey, NJ Chester County, PA Columbia, MD Essex-Hudson, NJ Greater Essex County, NJ Greater Union County, NJ Jersey Shore, NJ Loudoun County, VA Manassas-Woodbridge, VA Mercer County, NJ Metropolitan, NY Mid-Hudson Valley, NY Montgomery County, MD Montgomery County, PA Morris County, NJ Nassau County, NY National Harbor, MD

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New Castle County, DE Newton, MA North Jersey, NJ Northern Virginia, VA Pittsburgh, PA Potomac Valley, MD Prince George’s County, MD Prince William County, VA Queens, NY Reston, VA Rockland County, NY South Jersey, NJ Southern Maryland Stamford/Norwalk, CT Suffolk County, NY Washington, DC

James River, VA Queen City, NC Raleigh-Wake, NC South Charlotte, NC Wilmington, NC Winston-Salem, NC

MID-WESTERN REGION

Akron, OH Chicago, IL Cincinnati, OH Circle City, IN Cleveland, OH Columbus, OH Gary/Northwest Indiana, IN Indianapolis, IN Lake Shore, IL Milwaukee, WI FAR WEST REGION Minneapolis, MN Anchorage, AK Motor City, MI Greater Vallejo, CA North Oakland-Macomb, MI Inglewood, CA North Shore, IL Long Beach, CA Oakland County, MI Los Angeles, CA North County San Diego, CA Saint Louis, MO South Suburban Chicago, IL Pasadena, CA Toledo, OH Phoenix, AZ Portland/Willamette Valley, OR Windy City, IL Youngstown, OH San Jose, CA Santa Clarita/Antelope, CA Ypsilanti, MI Tri-Valley, CA

MID-ATLANTIC REGION Capital City, NC Charleston, SC Columbia, SC Durham, NC Eastern North Carolina, NC Florence, SC Greensboro, NC Greenville, SC

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

Alexandria, LA Arlington, TX Beaumont, TX Clear Lake/Bay Area, TX Dallas, TX DFW Mid-Cities, TX Greater Channel, TX Greater Frisco, TX Houston, TX

Humble-Kingwood, TX Katy-Prairie View, TX North Houston Suburban, TX North Suburban Dallas, TX North Texas, TX Northeast Dallas, TX Red River, LA San Antonio, TX South Belt Houston, TX Southwest Suburban Dallas, TX Sugar Land, TX Waco, TX

SOUTHEASTERN REGION Atlanta, GA Augusta, GA Birmingham, AL Brevard County, FL Buckhead Atlanta, GA Columbus, GA Fayette County, GA Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL Greater Huntsville, AL Greater Metropolitan Atlanta, GA Greater North Atlanta, GA Greater Tampa, FL Jackson, MS Jacksonville, FL Knoxville, TN Lake Spivey, GA Miami, FL Mobile, AL Nashville, TN Palm Beach, FL Savannah, GA Stone Mountain, GA Tallahassee, FL Treasure Coast, FL Williamson County, TN

NATIONAL YOUTH VOLUNTEER SERVANT LEADERS Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated recognizes the children and teens who completed at least 25 hours volunteer service. In addition, children and youth that also met the criteria of the United States President’s Volunteer Service Awards were recognized by President Barack Obama. We salute our Jack and Jill youth from the 2014-2015 program year.

CENTRAL REGION BLOOMINGTONNORMAL, IL Jordyn Blythe Carley Williams Dara Williams Malik Woods DENVER, CO Terry Boykin, II Kiana Campbell Evan Edmondson Daryn A. Fouther Jalen Inglemon Myles Pace Tyler Speller Samaria Stovall EAST ST. LOUIS, IL Brendon Bush Austin Carey Drew McGee Myles McGee Carlos Jr. Sanford GREATER LITTLE ROCK, AR Micah Armstrong Micah Bernard Lee Frazier-Poole Gia Hayes Sakiyah Hearn Desmond Mitchell Nola Ornelas Sumone Steele GREATER PEORIA, IL Cameo Hazelwood JOHNSON COUNTY, KS Nyle Banks OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Cheryl Daniel

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, IL Jacob Dorsey Amani Franklin Ailayna Gaffney Alexis Gaffney Austin Johnson David Johnson Niajah Johnson Thalia Johnson Chelse King Nathan Lumas Jalil Roundtree TULSA, OK Amelia Anderson Brett Anderson Monet Goines William (Kiew) Goines Harrison Hardman Houston Hardman Ashley Jones Julian Owens Victoria Turner

EASTERN REGION ALEXANDRIA-MT. VERNON, VA Heather Hawkins Brandon Joyner Kayla Joyne Lauren Joyner Brianna Latham Skylar Montgomery Solenne Montgomery Malachi Walker Christopher Wong ARUNDEL BAY AREA, MD Joelle Everett Kayla Taylor

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Jillian Brown Vernon Burch John Carr Bradford Fauntleroy Reece Miller Kyra Sidibe Geon Smallwood Ruby Washington BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD Lyndsay Hamilton Simeon Jackson Kourtney Pryor Jordan Ross BOSTON, MA Rachel Cadet BUCKS COUNTY, PA Booker Farrior Kennedy Farrior Michael King Myles King BURLINGTONWILLINGBORO, NJ Faith Bonett Kenneth Bonett Arianna Cobb CENTRAL NEW JERSEY, NJ Logan Bell Zachary Bell Mara Peoples Sydney Peoples Gabriella Robinson COLUMBIA, MD Bianca Brade Madison Fields Kendall Howze Cameron Thomas Marissa Varnado

ESSEX HUDSON, NJ Miles LeAndre GREATER HARRISBURG, PA Sydney Anderson GREAT UNION COUNTY, NJ Whitney Porter David Tibbs JERSEY SHORE, NJ Jocelynn Dow Jordynn Dow Taylor West MANASSASWOODBRIDGE, VA Addison Adams Jordan Adams Gabriel Arrington Jordan Holeman Johnny Johnson Malani Johnson Myles Moorman Cayla Morgan Jasmine Morton Leah Morton Madison Norwood Marisa Norwood Cameron Starr Parker Starr MERCER COUNTY, PA Caeden Wallace METROPOLITAN, NY Mark Stent Mariah Stokes MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD Ava Campbell Hilary Cyrus Nihira Mugamba SCOPE 2016

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NATIONAL YOUTH VOLUNTEER SERVANT LEADERS NASSAU COUNTY, NY Aaron Daniels Emma Daniels Anastasia King Carla Magnus Kristen McKenzie Blake Sexton Alenzia Thigpen Darien Ward Taylor Ward NATIONAL HARBOR, MD Morgan Biggs Taylor Fields Christal Toyer NEWTON, MA Ian Brown Lauren DaSilva Rachel DaSilva Natalie Lewis Gabrielle Lockett Sierra Smither NORTH JERSEY, NJ Somalia Bryant Zachary Dees Frederic Lampley Marcus Stevenson Isaiah Thompson PITTSBURGH, PA Taylor Madison PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MD Taylor Camp Kailyn Geter Olivia Mitchell QUEENS, NY Nicholas Baker, Alphonso Bonds, Jr. Josiah Grant Shayla Leacock Christian Robinson ROCKLAND-ORANGE COUNTY, NY London Armstrong Loren Armstrong Ta’Tiana Jenkins Ariane Rowe 180 SCOPE 2016

STAMFORD-NORWALK, CT Amber Tapscott Taylor Tapscott SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY Rebecca Alston Amanda Belgrave Ashley Belgrave Carl Bent Jasmyn Brown Jayda Brown Jordyn Brown Kennedy Campbell Cameron Chapman Conner Chapman Shelby Donald Sadat Gresham Isabella Griffith Danielle Harris Chanel Hudson Brianna Hutchinson Justin Hutchinson Justin Lowe Justin McKinney Terrence McKinney Miles Middleton Chloe Padilla Claire Padilla Chelsea Parkes Alfaro Robuste Makayla Shelton Kaiya Simmons Kiara Starling Dallas Streeter Drew Tucker Lauren Tucker Catharyn Watts-Battey WASHINGTON, DC Alexandra Alfonso Matthew Bailey Haley Butler Eric Easter Cameron Gadson Jordan Giles Eva Goborne Hill Goborne Mike Grimes Ayende Hegwood Grace Marion

Jordan Phillips Jeffrey Ross Tijara Smith Toloani Smith Ace Stallings Micah White

NORTH COUNTY SAN DIEGO, CA Alexis Carter

far west REGION

ORANGE COUNTY, CA Brynn Adams

FRESNO, CA Phillip A. Brown Briaunna Caver Briaunna Caver Jaidah Doxey Jeremiah Doxey Jordan Doxey Joshua Doxey Alexis Fowlkes Eryka Tate Preston Young Preston Young INGLEWOOD, CA Kamea Nicolis Kennedy-Katie Solomon Morgan Williams INLAND EMPIRE, CA Cierra Gilmore Christian Hudson Joshua Hudson Eva Lamar Andrew McDaniels LONG BEACH, CA Milan Harris Ruby Pittman Kinsley Washington Ryan Washington LOS ANGELES, CA Qaisera Alexis Asha Banks Lauren Elizabeth Blake Anthony Comres Christopher Darden Jeremiah Fountain Briana Hammond Jahwala Moses Johns Jordan Mason Daryl Reems Madison Turner Skylar Washington

OAKLAND BAY AREA, CA Sierra Stallworth

POMONA AREA, CA Jadyn Taylor SACRAMENTO, CA Taylor Redmond SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, CA Aren Barnes Taylor Watson Myles Williams SAN FRANCISCO, CA Olivia Clopton-Foster Maya John SAN JOSE, CA Miles Lawson Skylar Pitre Milan Williams SANTA CLARITA/ ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA Courtney Cannon Elon Cooper Irie Cooper Davis Howard Nicole Howard Amaya Neely Amari Powell Jameel Powell Ryan Rector Braden Spencer Samara Spencer SEATTLE, WA Jemma Yeadon Stirling Yeadon TACOMA, WA CeDrice Williams TRI-VALLEY, CA Lauren Twamugabo

NATIONAL YOUTH VOLUNTEER SERVANT LEADERS MID-ATLANTIC REGION BURLINGTON-GRAHAM, NC Chyna Ferrell Kenneth Harris Nicholas Harris William Harris CAPITAL CITY, NC Alexandria Best Andre Best Erin Blagrove Madison Blagrove Dana Burkett Kennedy Byrd Sheridan Charles Kennedy Cooper Taylor Corpening Kamryn Dixon Amari Lynn Amaya Lynn Chancellor Mills Cierra Mills Michala Mills Aaron Williams Amaya Williams Christopher Williams Christopher Williams Jaedon Williams CHARLESTON, SC Lindsey Clarkson Alex Hepburn William Hepburn Zelena Martin Kennedy McGinnis Jada Orr William Pugh Summer Ray CHESAPEAKE, VA Denzel Brown John Erik Taylor, Jr. COLUMBIA, SC David Jackson Gregory Jackson Kaitlyn Jackson Kierra Jackson Macy Kimpson Aniaya Price Sydney Reed

DURHAM, NC Genesis Crawford EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA, NC Addison Artis Camden Atkinson Eric Atkinson Benjamin Bullock Timothy Bullock Meredith Edmonds Percy Edwards Steven Edwards Maxine Ford Elizabeth Griffin Morgan Harvey Matthew Haskins Brandon Jenkins Elisabeth Jenkins Tatum Jordan Kaila Lawrence Brention Lowery Gabriel Lowery Phillips Matthew Jay Mebane Lucas Mebane Bishop Miles Kyra Miles Carolina Mitchell Khloe Moye Freeman Patterson Richard Patterson Norah Smith Ryan Smith Morgan Taylor Will Taylor Cyrus Wilkins Selena Wilkins FAYETTEVILLE, NC Akilah Anderson Chole Baylor Christian Benson Lauren Benson Alexander Boring Ellington Brown Elyscia Brown Falon Cooper Farrah Cooper Michael Douglas Jasmine Ford

Kai Hubbard Martin Kendrick Jasmine Lapsley Madison Lapsley Kiana McCoy Lauryn Nobles Leslie Nobles Messiah Phelps Lark Taylor Lauryn Taylor GREENSBORO, NC Elliott Graves Ellis Stokes Torre Stokes Hope Ugboro HAMPTON, VA Alexus Baldwin Ayleah Bell Armone Davis Briana Hunter Christopher Inman Savannah Williams Simone Williams JAMES RIVER, VA Marissa Jacques ORANGEBURG, SC Hunter Free Howard Free, III Chandlar Glover Gabrielle Govan Marion Jamison, IV Seve Mack Skylar Mack Tekiah McClary Layla McMillian Shani McMillian PORTSMOUTH, VA Jasmine Gray Jada Jones Trinity Woodson Ashliegh Wright Jordan Yowell QUEEN CITY, NC Lauren Bush RICHMOND, VA Lindsay Shavers Robert Turpin

Traci Turpin Trent Turpin SOUTH CHARLOTTE, NC Nia Alexander Aman Hyrams Eva Logan Lance Lunderman Paris McGill SPARTANBURG, SC Janelle Brown Jaida Foster DeLisa Milbourne Jordan Starks

MID-WESTERN REGION AKRON, OH Reece Barnett Hugh Cade Marcus Martin Michael Singletary ANN ARBOR, MI Imani Blair Nia Blair Kayla Graves CENTRAL KENTUCKY, KY Micah George Carter Robinson Kennedy Weathers CHICAGO, IL Janae Capers Carmani Edwards Ayana Fourte Elliot Fourte Stephanie McCarty Lauryn McGregory Maia McGregory Lauren Merriwether Maxwell Richardson Shelby Richardson Olivia Turk Delia West CLEVELAND, OH Courtney Allen Camille Bonner Collin Davis SCOPE 2016

181 

NATIONAL YOUTH VOLUNTEER SERVANT LEADERS Quentin Davis Bradford Eason Clayton Eason Taylor Grant Mekkah Husamadeen DeShaun Jones Kyle Jordan Kendall Cherie Long Tyson Long Jasmyne McCoy Sydni Owens Bryson Simpson COLUMBUS, OH Simone Armour OH E. Princeton Ball OH Jordan Bauknight OH Cassie Davis OH Joshua Duffy-Cooper OH Aaron Ervin OH Sydney Jackson OH Alyssa Rodriguez OH Joshua Smith OH Celina Thomas OH Spencer Ward OH DERBY CITY, KY Olivia Allen Olivia Allen Rachel Cooper Tracey Lindsey DETROIT, MI Spenser Ford Camryn McMurtry Kyle McMurtry GARY-NORTHWEST INDIANA, IN Daryl Jones Jamila Brandon Kristen Davidson Jelani Gibson Triston Hillman Austin Izah Justine Izah Salih Muhammad Alaina Patterson Christion Robinson Koron Walker Zakiya Walker Trevor James Williams 182 

SCOPE 2016

GREATER LANSING, MI James Coles, IV DeJuan Jones Taylor Richard INDIANAPOLIS, IN Zachary Bond Katiana Breland Carmen Broadnax Ava Brown Joshua Brown Victoria Cater Gabriel Hampton Alexandria Hicks Jasmine Johnson Jaidyn Lindsey Shelby Lindsey Mikayla Lomax Jayden McMullen Blake Neely Julian Neely Lauren Neely Joy Overby Wayne Mitchell Radford Jade Springer Jenna Springer Olivia Suggs Jalyn Warren Ryan Williams Devin Wright LAKE SHORE, IL Makenze Humphrey Sydney Jackson Cayci Jeter Aria Rayburn Brendan Ricketts Emerson Ricketts MILWAUKEE, MI Nathan Lynn Tatyana Lynn Blair Martin Gabrielle Martin Lindsey Martin Simone Wright MOTOR CITY, MI Nicholas Hairston Jasmine Williams Jeremiah Wimberley

NORTH OAKLAND/ MACOMB, MI Nathaniel Coppin Miles Gilmore Taylor Gilmore Kyle Holmes Justin Hunter Alyssa Tasker Eljaye Tellis OAKLAND COUNTY, MI Gryson Scott Combs Lauryn Taylor SOUTH SUBURBAN CHICAGO, IL Alexis Clark Alannah Hill Collin Lewis Wynton Wright SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN, MI Aamira Farrakhan Bradley Jackson ST. LOUIS, MO Asher Clarke Nicholas LeNoir Justin Liggins Rachel Middleton Clarke Shead Madison Shead Caleb Stallion Mary Elizabeth Threats Erika Wilson TOLEDO, OH Kaden Robertson WEST SUBURBAN CHICAGO, IL Cameryn Cobb Janelle Finch Isis Ruff Kira Sears Noah Starkey WINDY CITY, IL Mario Davis Bethany Griffin Elauna Harris-Jones Alexis Porter

YPSILANTI, MI Christian A. Johnson

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION ALEXANDRIA, LA Ashlyn Jackson Kaylyn Jackson ARLINGTON, TX Naima Batson Jessica Benton Bryana Currie Jaeidah Reed Madison Russell AUSTIN, TX Jordan Bernard Jory Henderson Kyndall Johnson Kyle Lilly Wesley Matingou Sydney Starkes Brianna Townsend BATON ROUGE, LA Kennedy Benjamin Ari Burns Simone Craven Danielle Dubriel Robert Gardner Raven Kelly Joshua Littleton Megan Littleton Benjamin Louis Lauren Patterson Caitlyn Smith Joy Trusclair BEAUMONT, TX Jordan Greer DFW MID-CITIES, TX Caylynn White-Frierson GREATER CHANNEL, TX Iman Andrews Madison Harris Fallon Jones Marcellus Jordan, III Miracle Leveston Jacquelyn Simmons Jonathan Simmons Jesseca Venters

NATIONAL YOUTH VOLUNTEER SERVANT LEADERS Nicole Williams Regan Williams GREATER FRISCO, TX Jalen Ball Christian Jefferson Angelica Johnson Chelsea Smith Zoe Washington Kristina Wright HOUSTON, TX Nia Caldwell Turner Caldwell Jasmine Geyen Alexandria Gordon Julian Peavy Kailyn Thibodeaux HUMBLE-KINGWOOD, TX Doriana Green Naomi Holmes Donald Kennedy Jasmine Kennedy Evan McHenry Maya Triche Micah Triche Ty Triche Allison Williams Addison Young MISSOURI CITY-SUGAR LAND, TX Dominique Angibeau Kathryn Grant Justin Hodrick Kendall Hollingsworth Allison Holmes Jeremiah McCollum Tate Mitchell Brennan Roquemore Lauren Roquemore NORTH HOUSTON SUBURBAN, TX Camille Nutall Roshaan Turner NORTH SUBURBAN DALLAS, TX Whitney Brown Christina Flakes Madison Goodrich

Bryce Johnson Layah Khalif Trinity King Emily Smith Erin Smith Evan Sully Philip Young

Kayla Roberson Barri Washington

DAYTONA BEACH, FL Camron Joyce Wright

THE WOODLANDS, TX Roderick Jeffries Christina Walker

DUNWOODY-ATLANTA, GA Britttany Allen Ryan Polk

NORTHEAST DALLAS, TX Gracen Abu Kennedy Fue Brooke Herod Nicholas Herod Roman Holder Rylan Holder Bailey Mitchell Miles Mitchell Austin Wesley Courtland Wesley Chandler Woods

ATLANTA, GA Danielle Grayson Allana Hudson Triniti Hudson D’Jani Lewis Nadja Lewis Allana Reid Kaitlin Scott Jasmine Sears Amber Young Christopher Young Michael Young Summer Young

RED RIVER, LA Madison Paige Abraham Isaiah Brown Taylor “Ty” Forrest Booker Fraser Lionel Fraser Mariah Hendricks Christian Lindsey Chondrick Lofton Allyson Ruben Steven Smith Trey Weather Kennedy Wells Deandra Williams Devin Williams J’Mar Williams SAN ANTONIO, TX Collins Audra Christian Butler Chinedu Okoro Nneka Okoro SOUTH BELT HOUSTON, TX Nicole Hutchinson SOUTHWEST SUBURBAN DALLAS, TX Jacob Jones Chloe Roberson

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

AUGUSTA, GA Nicole Alleyne, Riley Armant, Ryan Armant, Kylii Clay, Todd Gaines, Jr., Tederell Johnson, Jaylon Neely, Jayson Neely, Judson Pickett, BIRMINGHAM, AL Ashley Adams Autumn Canty Kevin Jameson Floyd Cameron Gardner Herschel O’Neal Hamilton Sidney Johnson Reginald Lawson David Moorer Jeremiah Spillers BREVARD COUNTY, FL Lauryn Brown Sean Brown DiKara Kinley-Irick Milan Lanier BUCKHEAD-ATLANTA, GA Kennedy Lollis

FAYETTE COUNTY AREA, GA Rachel Hartfield GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE, FL Janiya Allen Jordyn Allen Chelsea Baron Kent Baron Hannah Brown Matthew Brown Celeste George Jourdan Henry Alexandria Irish Ebyan McKenzie India Miller Eric T. Miller, Jr. Rayna Whye Jaime Wood Jessica Wood GREATER HUNTSVILLE, AL Drew Brunner Sean Brunner Ty Brunner Kynnedie Edwards Madyson Edwards Lance Stanmore Ian Thompson GREATER METROPOLITAN ATLANTA, GA Camryn Johnson Sierra Johnson Endure McTier Ivy Saddler Nolan Saddler GREATER NORTH ATLANTA, GA Richard Carnegie Corinne Carnegie SCOPE 2016

183

NATIONAL YOUTH VOLUNTEER SERVANT LEADERS GREATER TAMPA, FL Camille Benson Ailani Forde KNOXVILLE, TN Darryl Craig Bonner Jahlil Jefferson Juwaan Jefferson Sidney Matlock Arthur Nelson MACON, AL Sharif Robbins-Brinson MIAMI, FL Ari Fung-Lyew Bryce Fung-Lyew Kara Powell Barry Robinson Nia Sweet Anthony Taylor MOBILE, AL Morris Altice MiKenzie Bowman Michelle Davis Olivia Davis Kylen Rodgers David Thomas Lillian Thomas MONTGOMERY, AL Erin Bowman Evan Bowman Kristian McCord Chanice Spicer Robert Spicer Kennedy Thompson Nia Tuck NASHVILLE, TN Savannah Belton Sydney Brown Jarel Dillard Gardner “Luke” Dixon Piper Fleming Ross “Tiger” Fleming IV Ivey Frazier Andrew A. Horton Sophia Howard Joseph Johnson III 184

SCOPE 2016

Meciah Powell Bryce Vickers Cameron Williams Kelton Young NORTH SUBURBAN ATLANTA, GA Alyssa Abraham Allison Burns Zoe Grace Hargrove Sophia Jackson Ansley Watkins Alexander White ORLANDO, FL Adeena Ademu-John PALM BEACH, FL Hannah Jackson Danielle Kiminyo Amina Walker PENSACOLA, FL Christopher Akintonde Joshua Benson Casey Clifton Joshua Fobbs Moriah Fobbs Nyala Leatherwood Thaddeus McMillan Aayanna Robinson SAVANNAH, GA Hannah Bogans Jordan Bogans William Bogans, III Lindsey Dixon Brentton Ford Carrie Elizabeth Ford Sydney Grant Briana Jackson Lauren Jackson Leah Jackson Michaela Kaigler Maria Lotson Rose Moss Jermaya Patterson Amaya Williams SOUTH MIAMI, FL Angelica Carr Albert Dotson, III

Jordan Ford DaLauren Nottage Samuel Tate, III STONE MOUNTAIN, GA Courtney Cage Alexandria Cannon Reagan Crittenden Kasey Daniels Kinsey Daniels Lauren Deas Jarod Disher Leah Disher Shaylyn Estelle Miles Grayson Jacob Jordan Taylor Key Billye Lewis V. Kendal Montgomery Keith Montgomery, Jr. Elizabeth Patton Jalen Pierce Austin Rogers Sydney Rogers Ayana Salone Jillian Thomas Autumn Williams Jamie Wilson Jordan Wilson Alexis Wyche Austin Wyche TALLAHASSEE, FL John Bailey, Tallahassee Winston Bogan Marcus Boston Nia Close Malone Conner Brian Crumel Jason Crumel Kevin Dennis Ameion Hamlet Junnis Hugger Daja Jackson David Jackson Maya King Kathryn Lewis Audrey Lyons Joshua Lyons Julius McAllister

Jalen McClees Chloe Patterson Christian Patterson Christian Philpott Imani Sampson Brandon Smith Kameryn Stanfield Kiara Thompson Deja’ Uzzell Adrianna Williams TREASURE COAST, FL Chase Finney Clayton Finney Rance Garrett Kristian Hall Aaron Samuel Hines Chloe Hines Lonnie Ingram Travis Mack Faith Mobley Alyssa Panton Zachary Panton Jamauya Wilson Kashylla Wood Kendall Wood Kiahra Wood WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TN Jillian Gray Phillip (Trey) Gray Elise Jackson Ethan Jackson Jayden Smitherman Justin Smitherman

JACQUELINE MOORE BOWLES MODULES AWARDEES One of the hallmarks of Jack and Jill is our emphasis on youth development as evidenced in our leadership programs. We believe that teens must develop life-long skills that can award them the opportunity to become world leaders. The core of the Jack and Jill of America philospohy is that every child – if given the proper guidance and opportunity – can be developed into a leader. The Jacqueline Moore Bowles Teen Leadership and Development Guide consists of 16 interactive leadership competency modules. The guide is designed to provide youth (Grades 6-12) with critical leadership skills to effectively lead in a constantly changing society. Herein lies the foundation of our future leaders. The following graduating seniors were awarded for completion of the JMB Modules.

CENTRAL REGION BLOOMINGTONNORMAL, IL

Jabril Muhammad Austin Wheeler Carley Williams Dara Williams Malik Woods DENVER, CO

Alexis Ridley Morganne Veal KANSAS CITY, MO

Dana Breaux Danielle Breaux Quasha Collins Daven Fowler Ke’yla Haile (McClunie) Taelor Nicholas

Pryce Batey Micala Bruce Kiana Campbell Daryn Fouther Brianne Murray Samaria Stovall

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

DES MOINES, IA

Austin Johnson

Keenan Jackson Quinton Jenkins

TULSA, OK

EAST ST. LOUIS, IL

EASTERN REGION

Lillian Park-Goins Davon Walker GREATER PEORIA, IL

Cameo Hazlewood Markus Louis JOHNSON COUNTY, KS

Fazia Ahmed Sara Ahmed Tai Barber-Gumbs Traci Blue Grant Lombard Astin McAfee

Hanna Coleman Sebastian Coronel William Rhone Samuel Stephens ST. CLAIR COUNTY, IL

Kennedy Boyd

ARUNDEL BAY AREA, MD

Evan Bush Ayanna Byrd Evan DeLara Corey Gholston Cameron Harrison Jason King Chandler Pearson Malik Smith Solaimon Turner BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD

Megan Bentley Aliyah Smith BERGEN-PASSAIC, NJ

Aundreya Batson Brooke Burnette Kelsey Fields Bryce Hagan Jasmine Holliay Myles Moorman

BUCKS COUNTY, PA

MERCER COUNTY, NJ

Giannay Givens BALTIMORE, MD

COLUMBIA, MD

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ

Julian Alexander

MANASSASWOODBRIDGE, VA

Juliann Fileds Trevor King Jian Rice Franklin Robinson Samuel Tatem IV David Victor Miles Benson Joel Corpening Margaux Derricotte Booker Farrior Alexander Jordan Seraphina Parker Alexander Smith Bentley Wesley Smith Victoria Turner

Gabrielle Cannon Jessica Frazier Devin Grady Garrison Grady Giavanni Powell

Madison Field Nicholas Furr Hattie Gaines David Gay Mathew Glover Alana Graves-Bey John Hunter Christopher Hutchinson Christopher Johnson Francisco Joseph Brent Richardson Marissa Varnado

Joseph Hawes Justin Henderson Samuel Henry Sheriel Henry Tiana Richards Kyle Taylor METROPOLITAN, NY

Simone Hinson Tyla Phelps Jillian Rice

Christopher Carter

SCOPE 2016

185

JACQUELINE MOORE BOWLES MODULES AWARDEES NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DE

Jordyn Lane Christopher Soto NORTH JERSEY, NJ

Shari Gordon Christopher Lassiter Chick Miles LaMaya Samuels Madeline Thigpen Isaiah Thompson PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MD

Morgan Anderson Allison Brown Ciera Brown Taylor Camp Brandon Davis Brendenn Davis Carlos Garrett Cleo Gill Leah Herring Aaron Jordan Avery Langster Kyle McKenzie Jonathan Monroe Lauryn Perpall Ryan Perpall Daniel Rice Darian Rice Henry Rowson Nina Smith ROCHESTER, NY

Hudson Carter Terrance Richards Daria Williams SOUTH JERSEY, NJ

Conner Chapman David Drake Christopher Familusi Kobie Fraser Justin Hutchinson Justin Lowe Terrence McKinney Chelsea Parkes Alexis Toles Catharyn Watts-Battey WASHINGTON, DC

Jordon Argrett Daryl Brown Lindsay Cunningham Alexander Edge Nahja Franklin Jordan Giles Wesley Harris Brandon Holmes Kyle Hudson Sarah Marion Kenya McNealy Matthew Pashal Michael Joseph Rankin Julian Rigsby Kristopher Saulny Jonathan Towns Jioni Tuck Jerome Walker Eric Washington Krista White

FAR WEST REGION FRESNO, CA

Briaunna Caver Debra Cotton GREATER VALLEJO, CA

G. Tyler Allen Joshua Hall Peyton Hawkins David White Scott Young, II

Malichi Dawson, Greater Vallejo Ashley Harris, Greater Vallejo Nia Vance, Greater Vallejo

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY

INGLEWOOD, CA

Patrice Baston Ashley Belgrave Calvin Bent 186

SCOPE 2016

Capri Jones Morgan Williams

INLAND EMPIRE, CA

PHOENIX, AZ

Brandyn Baker Cierra Gilmore Christian Hudson Makayla Marshall Myles Rutherford

Steven Bolden Devon Byrd Kellen Moore Jera Richard Troy Elan Richardson Brandon Wilcox

LAS VEGAS, NV

Devin Ford Mark Woodson LONG BEACH, CA

Milan Harris Brandon Lewis Reggie Sampson Ryan Washington Chasen Wilson LOS ANGELES, CA

Bryce Bentley Morgan Brown Brooke Edwards Bradley Fountaine Jahwala Johns Ashley Mayo Taylor Pitter Zachary Wilson NORTH COUNTY SAN DIEGO, CA

Kenan Draughorne Dakota Jones Faye Diamond Raymond OAKLAND BAY AREA, CA

SACRAMENTO, CA

Stephen Ash Dorothy Galloway Justin Grady Mark Gunning Kayla Hall Sydney Hunter Jade Syphax SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, CA

Aren Barnes Christine Jones Omoye Lynn Garrett Thomas Juwan Trotter Kenneth Williams Myles Williams SAN JOSE, CA

Maya Crawford Payton Jones Raelene Parker SANTA CLARITA/ ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA

Kirsten Hardnett

Camille Ayanruoh Patrick Dawkins Jamaica Greenwood Dingane Kendricks Julius Stallworth

SEATTLE, CA

ORANGE COUNTY, CA

SOUTH LOS ANGELES, CA

Kelli Freeman Lauren Jackson PASADENA, CA

Michael Allen Jon Glover Noah Goldstein Kyle Leufroy Spencer Williams

Alaya Carr Kamilah Constable Giddeon Driver Austin Gray

Alexis Morehouse Andrew Morehouse TRI-VALLEY, CA

Brittney Deadwiler Taylor Fields Nethaniel Jones Nicolas Jones

JACQUELINE MOORE BOWLES MODULES AWARDEES Ryan Jones Sean Lucas TUCSON, AZ

Malachi Henry

MID-ATLANTIC REGION CAPITAL CITY, NC

Amari Lynn Cierra Mills Michala Mills CHARLESTON, SC

Leah Alford Dylan Brown Xavier Curry Chelsea McKelvey Gabrielle Milton Bruce Mitchell Yorrick Sutton CHARLOTTE, NC

Simone Griffith Timothy Hayes Erica Jordan Kevin Manley Aliyah Mazyck-Paraison Ryka Mitchell John Powell, III Erin Simmons Courtney Taylor Sydney Taylor Symphony Webber DURHAM, NC

Jonathan Avery Iyin Battle Keith Beasley Vanessa Bright John Fitz-Henley Wesley King Emanuel McGirt Jr. Collien Moss Malia Rouse EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA, NC

Meredith Edmonds Maxine Ford Matthew Phillips, III

FAYETTEVILLE, NC

Lauren Benson Elyscia Brown Martin Kendrick Lauryn Taylor

Cameron Deyampert Dalen Dotson Aris Fulton Jonah Lamothe Kayla Nichols

GREENSBORO, NC

WINSTON-SALEM, NC

Evan Shanks Drew Vincent

Chelsea Clemons Kaylah Henderson

MIDLOTHIAN, VA

MID-WESTERN REGION

Alec Alford Niara Chambers Barry Griffin Tyra Morrison Jessica Scruggs NORFOLK, VA

Jared Keys II ORANGEBURG, SC

Howard Free, III Donte’ Shuler PORTSMOUTH, VA

Aliah Aikens Reggie Bolton Alandra Copeland Jada Jones Cameron Saylor Ashleigh Wright Jessica Yowell RALEIGH-WAKE, NC

Destinee Bates-Henderson Sterling Bessard Will Brown Aiyanna Coard RICHMOND, VA

Myles Brown Taylor Davis Madison Harris Michael Lane Liza Mickens Aaron Simmons Loreal Williams ROANOKE VALLEY, VA

Myles Gunter SOUTH CHARLOTTE, NC

Lauryn Alexander

AKRON, OH

Hugh Cade Marcus Martin Michael Singletary ANN ARBOR, MI

Brianna Eccleston Asia Fields CENTRAL KENTUCKY, KY

Kennedy Weathers CHICAGO, IL

Zalana Allen Janae Capers Lauren Copeland Dominique Diop Bailey Ellis Elliott Fourte Evan Gayles Eric Grier Corey Hebert Lauren Merriwether Tayla Moore Ryan Stratton Delia West CINCINNATI, OH

Arthur “Julien” Cobb Jeffrey “BJ III” Davis Marcus Goodwin Nathalie Irving-Ray Juan Dante Jones Justin Lennon Loren McCauley Mikaela McGee Jamila Sylvester David Walker Arianne Whitaker

CIRCLE CITY, IN

Lauren Neal Shannel O’Neal CLEVELAND, OH

Robinson Kayla Gaines Maya COLUMBUS, OH

Mason McIntyre, Columbus OH Theo White DAYTON, OH

Kourtney Jackson Alanna Manigault Kyle McKinney Charles Perry Landon Singletary DERBY CITY, KY

Sierra Hill Tracey Lindsey GREATER GRAND RAPIDS, MI

Eron Lauchie GREATER LANSING, MI

DeJuan Jones INDIANAPOLIS, IN

Paris Mason MILWAUKEE, WI

Elisa Ashley Atiyana Evelyn Nia Feaster Morgan Harlan Chenendy Wiles MINNEAPOLIS, MN

Justin Brown, Jeremy Johnson, Annie McFarland, Adera Preston, Miya Reddrick, Kayla Reese, Leah Robinson, Sydney Scott, MOTOR CITY, MI

Nicholas Hairston Sydney Hairston

SCOPE 2016

187

JACQUELINE MOORE BOWLES MODULES AWARDEES Montana Tomlin Jeremiah Wheeler Jeremiah Wimberley

Wesley Givens Lauren Jerry Jaeidah Reed

NORTH OAKLAND/ MACOMB, MI

AUSTIN, TX

Justin Dale Mariah Flynn Justin Hunter Elyse Lang Cayla McNeil Austin Tasker

Tamara Brown Travis Brown Joey Carter Dyer Evan Grant Owens Rebecca Richard Lauren Turner

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI

BEAUMONT, TX

Nelson Posey

Alexis Fowler James Payne

SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN, MI

Arianna Dickason Miles Pruitt ST. LOUIS, MO

Chlotte Crim Justin Liggins Chloe Stallion Clark Stith Theresa Thompson Meridith Wade WEST SUBURBAN CHICAGO, IL

Starkey John Isis Ruff Kira Sears Bryson Wilks WINDY CITY, IL

Bryce Ellen Sesheta McNutt Langston Wren YOUNGSTOWN, OH

Miles Harris YPSILANTI, MI

Alanna Brown Jessica Gardiner Kamala Glenn Christian Johnson

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION ARLINGTON, TX

Amahra Browne 188

SCOPE 2016

DALLAS, TX

Steven Arterbery Danae Jackson Jaiden Wright GREATER CHANNEL, TX

Evan Blaylock Avery Toliver

Chaikerra Guice Lee Hampton Alex Henry Tate Mitchell Ryan Richardson Charlton Riley Tyler Stephens Cydney Stevenson Jaelyn Waddy NORTH HOUSTON SUBURBAN, TX

Taylor Estes Kaitlyn Jones Mallory Jones Jordan Ponce De Leon Roshaan Turner NORTH SUBURBAN DALLAS, TX

Whitney Brown Layah Khalif Brianna LaRosiliere Emily Smith Erin Smith Evan Sully Alicia White

Malik Robinson

SOUTHEASTERN REGION ALBANY, GA

Sa’haara-Jade Bryant Tyra House ATLANTA, GA

Asa Branch Talib Jr Briscoe Jamie Dearing Lauryn Greer Marcus Hall Margaret Hall Nile Victoria Johnson Imari Moore Sarah Pitts-Groce Walker Thompson Farris Watkins AUGUSTA, GA

Todd Gaines BIRMINGHAM, AL

HOUSTON, TX

Allyson Ruben Devin Williams

Lauren Juzang Meghan Marks Preston Mitchell Eliott Moorer Janaya Nelson Sydney Patterson Kyra Perkins

Cassidi Williams

SAN ANTONIO, TX

BREVARD COUNTY, FL

HUMBLE-KINGWOOD, TX

Cheyenne Evans Nneka Okoro Eric Witherspoon

Sean Brown Milan Lanier Austin Spears

SOUTHWEST SUBURBAN DALLAS, TX

COLUMBUS, GA

GREATER FRISCO, TX

Ryan Gadson Makenzie Gray Chelsea Smith Darrell Woolen

Makayla Brown Taylor Crawford Cassidy Dixon Jaylon Henderson Shelby Hurd Jey’la Johnson-Murphy Justin Sheppard KATY-PRAIRIE VIEW, TX

Khloe Madox Terrence Ray MISSOURI CITY-SUGAR LAND, TX

Dominique Angibeau Demetrius Bivins, II

RED RIVER, LA

Jacob Jones Colin Moore Jahmiila Wall Barri Washington SUGAR LAND, TX

Grant Holly Jorian Hunter Alex Sims THE WOODLANDS, TX

Simone Bergsrud Milan Nolen

Kennedy Gamble Bruce Simpson Joseph Wiley, III DAYTONA BEACH AREA, FL

Kenneth Edwards Tristen Johnson Dontia Orey DUNWOODY-ATLANTA, GA

Brittany Allen

JACQUELINE MOORE BOWLES MODULES AWARDEES FAYETTE COUNTY AREA, GA

Evan Barnes Christian Brown Jaelin Fraser Kyra Freeman Ryan May Ryan Reid Vanessa Sims GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE, FL

Landon Farris Rayna Lunn GREATER HUNTSVILLE, AL

Emerson Brooks John Mark Debro Collins Robinson Jayson Smith Ian Thompson GREATER NORTH ATLANTA, GA

Alexis Barge Fonda Fralin Tiffany Jones Jarrod Little Chelsea McClendon Devon Merlette Amirah Muhammad Briana Scott I’Mon Washington Bianca Watson Valana Wiltz

GREATER TAMPA, FL

Damani Eason Lea Estrill Tyra Johnson JACKSON, MS

Nicholas Bohannon Yesenia Davis Courtney Denson Bryanna Mosley Bria Paige JACKSON, TN

David Johnson KNOXVILLE, TN

Justin Payne Corey Smith LAKE SPIVEY, GA

James Bonner Jasmine Clark Kenneth Collins III Morgan Hodge Christopher Howard Mary Lott William Mann III Meshach Phillips Juan Williams MEMPHIS, TN

Kayla Bolden Akin Bruce Kennedy Cox Rickelle Henry Odell Horton, III Meredith Isom

Justice B. Laws Melba Martin Brent Palmer Clinton Vaughn, III Richard (Ricky) White, III MOBILE, AL

Morris Altice Jordan Davis Michelle Davis Aryne Hudson Siobhan Johnson Walter Little, III Lillian Thomas MONTGOMERY, AL

EJ Taylor NORTH SUBURBAN ATLANTA, GA

Cristen Flewellen Jayla Goodloe Joi Henry Noaah Moore Alexander White PALM BEACH, FL

Kendall Bond

STONE MOUNTAIN, AL

Taylor Ford Jacob Jordan Maya Mitchell Joshua Norman Kobie Polk Jasmine Willingham TALLAHASSEE, FL

Brian Crumel Jason Crumel Maya King Kathryn Lewis Chloe Patterson Christian Philpott Brandon Smith Kameryn Stanfield TREASURE COAST, FL

Travis Mack Zachary Panton WILLIAMSON COUNTY AREA, TN

Ruby Caldwell Xon Howard Jordan Zagerman

PENSACOLA, FL

Christopher Akintonde Joshua Fobbs Moriah Fobbs Ayanna Robinson SAVANNAH, GA

Bretton Ford Jermaya Patterson

SCOPE 2016

189

2014-2016

National Executive Board

TAMMY KING National President

joli cooper-nelson

190 

GLADYS HENDERSON

Regina page

National Vice President

National Program Director

National Recording Secretary

candace berry-vaughn

crystal turner

kimberley goode

National Corresponding Secretary

National Treasurer

SCOPE 2016

National Editor