Central Region - CR Review November 2023 Issue

NOVEMBER 2023

ISSUE NO 2

CR REVIEW C E N T R A L R E G I N Arkansas Colorado Kansas Illinois Iowa Missouri Oklahoma

Regional Director, Torii Ransome Freeman

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THIS ISSUE REB Check-In New Mothers Carole Robertson On the Hill Area Work Days Regional Notes

GREETINGS FROM YOUR REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Dear Central Region Mother Members, I am excited to introduce our November issue of the CR Review. We believe this newsletter will be a valuable information tool for our region, while also sharing our impact, and providing timely and insightful information to those looking to learn more about Jack and Jill.

The Regional Executive Board is committed to telling our stories about the latest news, and developments in our communities.

Here are some key highlights of what you can expect from this issue: New Central Region Mothers Carole Robertson Chapter News On the Hill 2023 Area Work Days 2023 We understand how important it is to stay connected to the mission of Jack and Jill, and we hope to have at least two additional newsletter releases this programming year.

We are eager to hear your feedback and suggestions as we continue to improve and expand CR Review.

Torii Ransome Freeman REGIONAL DIRECTOR CENTRAL REGION

Thank you for being an active mother member in our organization. We look forward to delivering informative and engaging content to your inbox with each edition of CR Review.

Together, we can embark on an exciting journey of discovery and knowledge sharing.

If you have any questions or would like to get in touch with us, please don't hesitate to reach out.

OFFICER REPORT

TREASURER

Greetings Mother Members As your Regional Treasurer, I have the following recommendations and announcements.

Highly Recommending Chapters complete the Quarterly Internal Financial Evaluation.

Vouchers for event reimbursements should be submitted within 30 days of the close of the event.

This will allow for timely final reports and timely reimbursements.

Congratulations to the Regional Budget and Finance Committee. The members of this committee are: Shunya Howell - Northwest Arkansas Chapter Ayesha Sonoiki - Des Moines Chapter Monica Murray - St. Clair County Chapter Dionna Daniels - East St. Louis Chapter I appreciate each of these mothers and their commitment to our regional fiduciary responsibilities.

Sandra McKinney REGIONAL TREASURER

OFFICER REPORT

SECRETARY Joanna Bowie-Pruitt REGIONAL SECRETARY Greetings Central Region Mothers I am excited to share news with

you in our 1st Regional newsletter.

I have been busy with 1 in 4

Verification. Now that the Area Workdays have been been

completed with 246 attendees, check your status! Please make

sure to check Digital Cheetah to

ensure your AWD event has been updated correctly and inform RS

within 30 days of any corrections.

KNOW YOUR STATUS!

The 71st Teen Conference planning has begun with the North West Arkansas host chapter and will be held at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The review process for a robust registration platform has also started. We hope to have a dynamic, interactive & user friendly platform for use during this conference. I look forward to working with the host chapter on registration, awards, and senior recognition.

The CR Regional Secretaries meetings are also in full swing along with training that was held at the Area Workdays. The next virtual meeting will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023 at 8pm CST/7pm MST. Give your chapter RS and CS grace as they are working hard to support their chapters with new Digital Cheetah features. I am thrilled to be a resource for them. See you next week!

Don’t forget to add your Father and Teen Digital Cheetah account Profiles.

OFFICER REPORT

FOUNDATION

Warm Greetings and Hey Ya’ll to All Central Region Mothers!

Our Program Year is off to an excellent start in terms of Philanthropy and Service! The Foundation and Community Service Chairs have been hard at work planning and preparing for this year. I'm thrilled to collaborate with all the Moms who have volunteered to serve in this capacity. Thank you for your dedication! We have commenced our monthly connect meetings, where we can share our experiences and progress. In fact, several chapters have already pulled off some remarkable and impactful fundraisers that were both enjoyable and beneficial for their communities.

As we approach the end of the calendar year, you will notice in the following Foundation Focus that a lot has been happening at both the Regional and National level and even more is in store!

FOUNDATION FOCUS Central Region Foundation Member at Large - Shante' Turner

AWD COMMUNITY IMPACT PROJECT The goal was to make 100 Period Hygiene Kits and 100 snack bags at each AWD. Moms and Teens CRUSHED it by assembling 300 of each at both AWDs. First Class Community Impact!

NOVEMBER IS PREMATURITY AWARENESS MONTH

Download & Post the JJOA Frame https://www.twibbonize.com/jjgoespurple23

OFFICER REPORT

NATIONAL TREASURER Thank You! One never knows what she needs until she receives it. My family and I are truly blessed to be the receiver of your prayers, condolences, gifts, and love. As we navigated the illness and passing of my beloved father, Rev. Arnold Henry, your kindness and thoughtfulness comforted us. As we continue to grieve, you continue to surround us in hugs, gentle touches of understanding, calls, and messages. You've allowed me to step away when I've needed and to cry in your presence. You are truly my village. I joined Jack and Jill for my children, but I've received so much more in the extended family I've gained in each of you.

I send you each my love, my gratitude, and my sincere thanks.

NT Mom Michele

NT MICHELE HENRY-McGEE Be Ready! Be Ready! Be Ready!

Registration for our 2024 National Youth Trip will open this Sunday, November 12th. Be Ready! Space is limited. Be Ready! Know your Digital Cheetah number.

Register your entire party. Know your children's names, ages, dates of birth. Have your credit card in hand. Be Ready!

Registration for the 2024 Associates Getaway will open December 15th. Current Associates and moms graduating in the class of 2024 will be invited to attend this fabulous getaway in Costa Rica. Be Ready!

Registration for National Convention 2024 is scheduled to open early in 2024. More details to come. Be Ready!

Save the Date, CFOs and Internal Chapter Evaluation Chairs Spring Mailer Training - April 30, 2024 8PM Central Make plans to join to review updates and changes to New Member reporting and review the improved internal review process.

Take Time to Breathe Just a reminder to breathe. Inhale. Exhale. Put your oxygen mask on first. Breathe life into yourself first so that you can breathe life upon others. Breathe.

Johnson County Chapter welcomed ten talented New Mother Members: Vanessa West Laura Freeny Tonya Guinn Danielle Johnson Maranda Jones Melanie McIntyre Monique Roberts Krista Stanton Jessica Stephenson Alexandra Wilson Johnson County Chapter is enjoying getting to know each of these mothers and their families as we work together in service for our children.

Central Missouri Chapter welcomed, Mother Jocelyn Gates.

The Gates family is new to Missouri, and the Central Missouri Chapter is excited to welcome them into our chapter and city. Each initiation ceremony is a reminder of all the work we do collectively on purpose for ALL children.

Mother Jocelyn, Father Dennis, and their two Jacks: Duke, 5; and Denver, 2 are great additions to the chapter. One of Mother Jocelyn's favorite pastimes is enjoying a great meal at a fabulous restaurant.

The Bloomington Normal Chapter has welcomed: Jasmine Buckner, Brandi Ellis, Danielle Hill, Natonya Pearson, and Robin West. Collectively these mothers are introducing nine children to Jack and Jill of America, Inc. These women are active members of the community, church leadership, educators and philanthropic models. We are excited to have them join us in our Jack and Jill journey.

Mother Jasmine Buckner is the director of the Youth Ministry, Village Women’s Support Group leader and as a women's Bible study teacher at her church.

Mother Brandi Ellis is the team lead for Pre K-1st Grade Eastview Church Kidsview, a program chair for the Leadership McLean County, and the Vice President for Normal Community High School PTO. Mother Danielle Hill is actively involved in church, leading a small group in the women’s ministry and coleading dance ministry.

Mother Natonya Person is passionate about serving in the community and being an involved parent in the school district.

Mother Robin West is passionate about philanthropy and supports aschool in the Nunguni Village and women's group in Nairobi Kenya, Africa.

The Oklahoma City Chapter has welcomed four mothers: Antoinette Benson, Kia Davis, Kesha Jones and Latoya Mason.

The Des Moines Chapter has welcomed: Angela Mew, Germaine Gross, Aminna Taylor, Tiara Mays and Jihna Jenkins.

On May 18, 2023, the Des Moines Chapter proudly welcomed five new mother members into our beloved Jack And Jill of America, Inc. These vibrant and accomplished women and their beautiful families have been a joyful welcome to their dynamic small but mighty chapter!

The Greater Pikes Peak Chapter welcomed Christine Brouch.

Christine joins Jack and Jill with her husband and two children. She is an artist, an event planner, and is dedicated to giving back. She volunteers as a coach of youth tennis and youth volleyball. She is also active in various organizations, including Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association and the Women of AFCEA.

The Kansas City, Kansas Chapter has welcomed:

The Kansas City, Kansas Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. has a legacy of commitment to Jack and Jill’s national mission. Because of this commitment, there were nine new Mothers inducted into the Kansas City, Kansas chapter on April 29, 2023 in Lenexa, KS. All nine new Mothers are passionate about giving our children, and our community, programming for leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, and civic duty. The new Mothers are ready to be of service to the chapter and make sure it is a strong and thriving chapter with strong programming for our children.

The Kansas City, MO Chapter welcomed five mothers: Shamika Hogan, Holly Long, Lashawn Daniels, T‘Shanna Young, and Tanesha Thompson.

Mom Hogan is the executive director of I.C. StarsKansas City, a technology-based leadership development program. Mom Long is a development director. Mom Daniels is a nurse educator. Mom Young is the senior manager for projects. Mom Thompson is a Head Start coordinator. Each of uthe new KCMO mothers and their spouses are excited to join the families of Jack and Jill and expand the work of the Central Region.

The East St. Louis Chapter welcomed nine beautiful and talented new mothers. These women made a sacrifice of their time, talent and treasurer for the betterment of their children - and all children. Each member brings unique experiences and backgrounds. The East St. Louis chapter looks forward to learning more with the Noble 9: Arica Harris, LaChrista Wilson, Dominique Clark, Nichole Lyles, Munaba Nasiiro, Bianca Jackson, Candace Evans, Ratesha Nicholson, and Krystal Jackson.

Bloomington-Normal Chapter The Bloomington-Normal Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., commemorated the life and legacy of Carole Robertson by focusing on Carole's passion for music. Inspired by Carole's love of listening to and playing music, the chapter highlighted the 50th year of hip-hop. The program and activities were centered around the theme “Focus on the Fabulous: Celebrating Life and Music." Each age group highlighted a decade in hip-hop history and showcased how that decade inspired them.

Carole Robertson’s legacy continues to inspire us to live, work and play together.

Central Missouri Chapter On September 10, 2023, Central Missouri Chapter families came together to celebrate Jack and Jill Day and reflect on Carole Robertson’s life and legacy. Jacks and Jills from each of our grade groups (3rd grade through 12th grade) engaged in research to learn more about Carole Robertson and her life. A representative from each grade group shared what they learned in a presentation to the entire chapter to Mothers and Fathers. Our Jacks and Jills also expressed their thoughts on why it’s important to continue to remember Carole Robertson and what her legacy means for understanding our culture and heritage in 2023. Children and teens discussed how Carole Robertson enlightens their thinking about civic engagement and the value of continuing to work for our communities.

Families then spent the day in fellowship, recreation, and building community. Committee members include Chiquita Chanay, Denise Chapel, and Marjorie Dorimé-Williams.

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Denver Chapter On September 23, 2023, the Denver Chapter families gathered together at Great Lawn Park in the Lowry neighborhood to remember the legacy of Carole Robertson, and to honor her memory. The event was hosted by the Grade Group Leads, Program Director Sherlenia Mitchell, and Lead Teen Advisor Michelle Kenney. The event was well attended with more than seventy people coming to enjoy beautiful September weather and to honor the memory of a Jack and Jill teen who was gone too soon.

Des Moines Chapter 2023 Carole Robertson Day: Our DSM Chapter members, and invited guests, commemorated the 60th anniversary of the horrific 16th Street Baptist Church bombing by actively participating in a peace walk at the first landmark in the city of Des Moines to be named in honor of the late Dr. Martin Kuther King, Jr., the MLK Jr. Park, remembering and honoring the life of the 4 little girls (Addie Mae Collins, Cynthia Collins, and Carol McNair) who perished on that ghastly day. Thank you LTS Bridgette Andrews for planning an impactful program enjoyed by all in attendance (plus, the delicious ice cream social was a delightful bonus.

Greater Champaign-Urbana On September 17, 2023, the Greater Champaign-Urbana Chapter celebrated the life of Carole Robertson at Hessel Park in Champaign, IL. Our SergeantAt-Arms, Mother Karen Flynn, who chaired the Carole Robertson Day Committee, kicked the day off acknowledging those who have gone before us and remind us all on why we do what we do with her reflection on the history of Jack and Jill as a whole, as well as the Birmingham Bombing of 1953 that took Carole’s life and the lives of three other girls, Addie, Cynthia and Denise. GCU families shared in food and fellowship and then broke away from their natural families and teamed up with other mothers, fathers, and children within the chapter to engage in a Jack and Jill version of Jeopardy.

The game included categories such as Famous Black Firsts; Who Said it; Civil Rights; Pop Culture; and of course, Jack and Jill Trivia.

Greater Little Rock Chapter On September 10, 2023, Greater Little Rock Chapter families gathered at Dickey-Stephens Park for food, fun, and fellowship at its annual Carole Robertson and Jack and Jill Day. The Busy Bees, Kid Power, Explorers, and Jammin’ Juniors groups honored the short life and sweet spirit of Carole Robertson with readings and poems while the Teens presented a candlelight memorial. Chapter President Katrina Banks read a proclamation from Mayor Frank Scott declaring September 10, 2023, as Carole Robertson and Jack and Jill Day in Little Rock.

Following the presentations, families spent the day enjoying a game of baseball. Earlier in the week, donations were collected of educational and cultural books for a GLRC community partner, MLK Jr. Elementary School. This chapter-wide event was hosted by Program Director Telischa Lewis and Mothers Katrina Banks, Kimberly Davis, Quantia Fletcher, Rosa Howard, Jerrilyn Jones, Tameka Lee, Margaret Love, Jennelle Primm, and Angela Shirey.

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Greater Peoria Chapter The Greater Peoria, IL Chapter assembled on September 9th, 2023 in a heartfelt tribute to honor the legacy of Carole Robertson. Carole, a cherished Jack and Jill teen, tragically lost her life in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. We gathered for an evening at the Peoria Chiefs game to commemorate her memory. The atmosphere was poignant as we observed a moment of silence, followed by an original poem crafted in Carole's honor. The evening melded introspection and celebration with delicious food, fun, and fireworks. A testament to the past's gravity and the promise of tomorrow, it showcased the unwavering bond of our Jack and Jill family. Hosted by Mom Yolanda Lowry.

Greater Pikes Peak Chapter Greater Pikes Peak hosted an unforgettable Carole Robertson celebration with Host Moms Tasara Fudge, Lisa Koroma, and Stephanie Zenon, beginning with Dad Dwayne Moore's engaging Storytime Corner. PD Lisa extended a warm welcome to our guests, leading to a touching Carole Robertson Ceremony led by the Senior Teens. We came together for cake cutting and refreshments. CP Rhoda Lockett-Moore conducted a Jack & Jill Day Presentation, and moms and kids participated in a heartwarming no-sew blanket-making activity for donation to the Boys and Girls Club. We cherished the memory of Carole Robertson and made it a day to remember.

Kansas City, KS Chapter The Kansas City, Kansas Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. held the annual Carole Robertson tribute on September 10, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park- Meadowlark Shelter in Lenexa, KS. Hosted by CP Jennifer McConico. Teens led the ceremony, which educated everyone on the significance of Carole Robertson and why it is important as established by the National organization. The ceremony provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the work to be done to advance racial equality. Teens also highlighted some civil rights that still exist today.

Families enjoyed the park with games for the Jack and Jills. New Mothers and Fathers in the chapter were able to build meaningful relationships with other members in the chapter. There was plenty of food and frozen treats for everyone, especially the Jack and Jills. The event was enjoyed by all families.

Kansas City, MO Chapter Kansas City, Missouri, Chapter celebrates Carole Robertson Day with tributes from each age group. The Kansas City, Missouri, Chapter kicked off its programming year with its annual Carole Robertson Day ceremony and Jack and Jill Family Day. The chapter’s Jack and Jills paid homage to the life of Robertson with a tribute from each age group. The Little Stars and Explorers created an art exhibit with their colorful expressions and kind words combined into an art collage. The Adventures created a visual living biography of Robertson’s life and interests in a creative display. The Visionaries expressed their contribution through spoken word. They shared two beautiful poems that expressed the full life of Robertson and her tragedy through powerful words. The ceremony, which was fittingly held in a scenic Children's Memorial Butterfly Garden, concluded with the Change Agents’ candle lighting and a balloon release.

Sensation St. Clair County families gathered On the afternoon of September 9th in memory of Carole Robertson. Moms, Dads, and our Jack and Jill’s spent an impactful afternoon in the park for Carole Robertson Day. Hosted by Moms April Williams & Lynette Lingard. The day included programming highlighting facts about Carole Robertson by our teens.

The Dads were profiled and gathered for photos for an upcoming Prostate Cancer screening.

Families enjoyed food and fellowship as the afternoon ended with Carole Robertson bingo.

Oklahoma City Chapter

St. Clair CountyChapter Sensational St. Clair County families gathered On the afternoon of September 9th in memory of Carole Robertson. Moms, Dads, and our Jack and Jill’s spent an impactful afternoon in the park for Carole Robertson Day. Hosted by Moms April Williams & Lynette Lingard. The day included programming highlighting facts about Carole Robertson by our teens. The Dads were profiled and gathered for photos for an upcoming Prostate Cancer screening. Families enjoyed food and fellowship as the afternoon ended with Carole Robertson bingo.

Sensation St. Clair County families gathered On the afternoon of September 9th in memory of Carole Robertson. Moms, Dads, and our Jack and Jill’s spent an impactful afternoon in the park for Carole Robertson Day. Hosted by Moms April Williams & Lynette Lingard. The day included programming highlighting facts about Carole Robertson by our teens.

The Dads were profiled and gathered for photos for an upcoming Prostate Cancer screening.

Families enjoyed food and fellowship as the afternoon ended with Carole Robertson bingo.

South Suburban Denver Chapter The families of SSDC gathered in a conference hall at Dave and Buster’s for a program highlighting the legacy of Carole Robertson. The program consisted of greetings from the Chapter President, Jacqueline Johnson, a video tribute and poem by our PK-8th grade students, including a video/slide presentation to provide a historical look at the civil right movement, the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, and the impact these events have on us today. Followed by social justice Kahoot game played by all attendees. The program concluded with dinner, dessert and families enjoying games, activities, and continued fellowship. During the event our chapter hosted a Coats for Carole coat drive to help our unhoused community prepare for the winter months.

TulsaChapter The Tulsa Chapter of Jack and Jill of America had a full day honoring the beautiful life and memory of Carole Robertson through education, service, and celebrating Black Athletic Excellence. We kicked off the day by participating in the community baby shower hosted by the Tulsa Health Department where we collaborated with the American Heart Association and OU Medical. Our mother members had the opportunity to educate expectant mothers on the importance of CPR, while our teens disseminated Infant and Family CPR kits. Through that experience, we were able to make a difference in the lives of our community. Later that day, our teens took the lead in a moving ceremony commemorating Carole Robertson, scripted by mother RD Torii Ransome Freeman. This year marks 60 years since the tragic bombing at 16th St Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. We wrapped up the day by recognizing Black Athletic Excellence with sports activities for each age group, followed by food, fellowship, and fun. It was a day filled with meaningful moments, and we're proud to continue Carole Robertson's legacy in all that we do.

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Over 600 teens from across the nation gathered in Washington, D.C. for the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., 2023 On The Hill Legislative Summit held on September 22-25, 2023. The key advocacy priorities of the summit were Voting Education, CROWN Act Support, Gun Control and Stricter Gun Laws, and Policing Reform.

OTH Summit had a full agenda that included the following events: Black Business Vendors Summit; National President’s welcome reception and awards night; Power of Advocacy speaker series; Financial Matters Seminar; The State of Black Middle Class; Mental Health Awareness Po-Up; and JJOA legislative awards and programming luncheon. The Summit closed with a day in advocacy at the nation’s capital as teens activate and engage with Congressional Representatives and Senators.

The Central Region teens and chaperones also enjoyed a dinner cruise along with the Eastern, Mid-Western, and South Central regions. The summit had several guest speakers, including Washington D.C. Mayor and JJOA Mother Member Muriel Bowser, Nationally-recognized Attorney Ben Crump, Maryland’s First Lady Dawn Flythe Moore, Political Analyst, and former South Carolina Rep. Bakari Sellers, MSNBC’s Symone Sanders, and the surprise appearance of Vice President Kamala Harris.

Central Region’s Legislative Chair, Trina Payne Grier and our Teen Legislative Chair, Marian Williams share their insight on the event on the next page. RLC Trina worked countless hours with the planning committee to ensure a successful event and that Central Region was well represented. We appreciate her hard work and dedication to advocacy, our children and elevating the region.

REGIONAL LEGISLATIVE CHAIR TRINA PAYNE GRIER Northwest Arkansas Chapter

What was the overall theme or focus of this year's legislative summit?

The Power of Advocacy What would you say about the summit to those teens who may be interested in attending in the future?

It is a Pinnacle event like a Capstone for Jack and Jill Teens. Unlike a Teen Conference, you can interact with teens from across the country.

During On The Hill, you can hear and discuss topics that are important as it relates to advocacy and impacts on black youth. According to the teen advocates that I spoke with, the parties were top tier too! The networking and the exposure to legislative advocates that look like us are unmatched.

What impact do you think the summit had on all those in attendance? Inspired to make a change.

To see journalists in the audience hear stories and immediately plan to feature our stories was eye-opening.

Was there a moment that stood out above the rest? As a part of the National Committee, it was so emotional to watch the visit from Vice President Kamala Harris come to fruition. And then to see the pure glee from our teens in the crowd made all the late nights of planning the event worth the work!

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REGIONAL LEGISLATIVE TEEN CHAIR MARIAN WILLIAMS St. Clair County Chapter What were some of the highlights that you and other teen advocates learned from at the summit?

Being in Washington D.C. for the “On The Hill Summit” (OTH) was a life-changing experience. I had the opportunity to be among a delegation of over 600 teens spanning more than 30 states while visiting our nation’s capital for four (4) legislative advocacy days. As the Central Region’s Teen Legislative Chair, I had the opportunity to articulate my ideas through engaging in public speaking, and most importantly, helping to craft a compelling narrative about the professionalism of the next generation of African American Leaders to our policymakers in Washington, D.C. Some of the highlights from OTH included our kickoff business forum, financial investment forum with incredible speakers ranging from authors, entrepreneurs, interior designers, financial literacy educators, political advocates, media professionals and our fabulous Jack and Jill Moms from across the United States.

What would you say about the summit to those teens who may be interested in attending in the future?

For teens interested in attending the OTH summit in the future, this experience will light a fire in your heart through collaborating with like-minded African American teens with similar passions for advocacy. For example, the important issue of ending police brutality affects us all, witnessing firsthand, the words of Karen Wells, mother of 22-year-old Amir Loch tells the compelling story of her son being a respectful and inquisitive young man, provides passion when amplifying the voice of black teens in raising awareness of why it matters to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. What impact do you think the summit had on all those in attendance?

The impact on all those in attendance is recognizing the OTH Summit is not just a one-time event, it represents teens gaining confidence to stand out as leaders while learning the tools to organize, leverage a platform to raise awareness, and more importantly engage in meaningful conversations about issues that matter to our communities. Our time on Capitol Hill was transformed into hundreds of meetings with the staff of members of Congress raising awareness about Jack and Jill’s legislative priorities.

Was there a moment that stood out above the rest?

As an aspiring Civil Rights attorney, it was amazing to meet Bakari Sellers and Benjamin Crump, both of who have made their mark in helping to reshape the political attitudes towards police reform. Like many other teens, the moment that stood out for me was our surprise guest, Vice President Kamala Harris joining the summit to express her thanks to us as teens for stepping up to lead, and to deliver her charge to have the “ability to see ‘what can be’ unburdened by ‘what has been’”. Vice President Harris reminded Jack and Jill Teens to “lead with optimism”. I left Washington D. C. full of hope and even more eager to perform my civic duty to engage my local and our national political leaders in moving forward goals to help improve the lives5 of others.

OTH 2023 MEMORIES

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AREA WORK DAYS

On behalf of the Central Region Executive Board I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the warm hospitality and for the engagement with every working member of the host chapters of Bloomington-Normal and Greater Little Rock.

Special appreciation for guiding the work and execution to Chair Shomari Caffey, CoChair Dakesa Pena and Chapter President Memuna Lee of the BLN Chapter, and Chair Adrienne Smith, Co-Chair Angela Shirey, and Chapter President Katrina Banks of the GLR Chapter. Your kindness and generosity made our time in your communities truly memorable.

From the moment we arrived, it was evident that you had gone above and beyond to ensure our comfort and enjoyment and that you took seriously the task of creating an experience for the mother members of Central Region. Your thoughtfulness in all of the details showed as we EMBRACEd our weekends together for the development of our children and the embodiment of motherhood.

Thank you once again for your leadership. We are truly grateful for your kindness, generosity and the sisterhood amongst us.

Long live Jack and Jill!

RD Torii Ransome Freeman

Bloomington-Normal October 21, 2023

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Greater Little Rock November 4, 2023

REGIONAL TEEN PRESIDENT SIR MICHAEL CARRINGTON WILLIAMS-THOMAS

It is a pleasure to be able to express Bloomington-Normal Chapter and warm greetings on behalf of your the second, was the South-West 2023-2024 Regional Teen Officers AWD hosted by the Greater Little (RTOs) and share a few things that Rock Chapter. Hats off to both your regional teen leadership team chapters and their leadership have been engaged in on the front teams for hosting highly engaging end of the program year! Excitedly, and impactful workshops that know that you’ve had Regional enabled our teens to learn Teen Officer (RTO) representation together through the hands-on all over the world these last few interactive programs. Our teens months - we’ve been to Greece, were able to communicate, Fayetteville, AR, New York City, collaborate, and connect in NY, Washington D.C., Bloomington, meaningful ways that helped to IL, and we just left Little Rock, AR strengthen our relationships and a few days ago. We have had some bonds. wonderful adventures and have learned, led, and served along the Also, we conducted our very first way.

Central Region Chapter Teen President conference call where We have been hard at work we provided our brilliant teen planning and executing our Area leaders with updates on regional Workdays – the first, was the business matters, shared our goals North-East AWD hosted by the for the programming year, discussed the enhancements of

adding teen accounts in Digital Cheetah, introduced our new mentoring program, and addressed questions they might have had in efforts to assist them in effectively leading their chapters. These discussion will continue on a bi-monthly basis.

Please know your RTOs have been busy soliciting feedback and listening to our teens in our efforts to plan the very best Teen Conference ever in 2024! Be on the lookout for more information to come, but for now, I’m happy to share that we will be onsite on the University of Arkansas for our spectacular and memorable TC 2K24.

We are pressing ahead and are looking forward to continuing our positive momentum!

RTP Carrington

REGIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD

Regional Director Torii Ransome Freeman RDTORII@jackandjillcentralregion.org

Regional Secretary Joanna Bowie-Pruitt RSJOANNA@jackandjillcentralregion.org

National Treasurer Michele Henry-McGee JJNTMichele@gmail.com

Foundation Member at Large Shante’ Turner MALSHANTE@jackandjillcentralregion.org

Regional Treasuer Sandra McKinney RTSANDRA@jackandjillcentralregion.org

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Associates

Elsie Jackson, Des Moines Chapter, centralracelsie@gmail.com Budget Sandra McKinney, Kansas City MO Chapter, RTSandra@jackandjillcentral region.org Bylaws Tiffany Bradley, Kansas City MO Chapter, TiffanyBradleyJJ@gmail.com Fathers’ Auxiliary Fred Little, South Suburban Denver Chapter, FredLittle@hotmail.com Legislative Trina Payne Grier, Northwest Arkansas Chapter, PaynegrierJJOA@gmail.com Membership: Tamara Parker (National Chair), St. Clair County Chapter, tamaraparker1208@gmail.com Nominating: Landria Seals Green, Greater Champaign Urbana, LandriaGreen@gmail.com Public Relations Janice Connolly, Tulsa Chapter, dconnollybillpay@gmail.com Policies & Procedures Diona Mills Daniels, East St. Louis Chapter, dionajmills@gmail.com Programming Adrienne Smith, Greater Little Rock, centralrpcadrienne@gmail.com Protocol Katrina Little, South Suburban Denver, centralrpckatrina@gmail.com Strategic Planning & Relevance Tonasha Sylvester, Kansas City MO Chapter, jj.tonasha.sylvester@gmail.com Technology Committee Rhonda Johnson, Bloomington-Normal Chapter, RTCRhonda@jackandjillcentralregion.org We Are One Committee Lanelle Owens, Northwest Arkansas Chapter, lowensjj1938@gmail.com

TASK FORCE LEADS Alumni Connections Task Force Stephanie Adams, Northwest Arkansas Chapter, stephgadams@gmail.com Emergency Responders Task Force Katrina Banks, Greater Little Rock Chapter, katrina_08@sbcglobal.net Governance Task Force Tamara Griffin, Oklahoma City Chapter, tamara.griffin08@gmail.com Growing Strategically Task Force Ericka Duker, Johnson County Chapter, egravy@hotmail.com Leadership Training and Development Task Force Jon Porter, Johnson County Chapter, cp@jnjjoco.com National Founders Day Task Force Nicole Travis, Tulsa Chapter, nictrav04@yahoo.com International Membership Task Force Shantia Coley, East St. Louis, Shantia.Coley@gmail.com National Historical Task Force April Hall-Key, Johnson County Chapter, momofwar@live.com National Youth Trip Task Force Michelle McConnell, Kansas Ciity MO Chapter, michelle.r.mcconnell@gmail.com Our Health Matters Task Force Noor Jihan Abdul-Haqq, Oklahoma City Chapter, DrJihan2020@gmail.com Small and Mighty Chapter Support Task Force Kristina Anderson, St. Clair County Chapter, kneanderson@gmail.com Strategic Partnerships Task Force Leslie Shelton Walters, Tulsa Chapter, raspberryswirl_2000@yahoo.com Curriculum Task Force Dionne Mitchell, Greater Little Rock, dionne.j.mitchell@gmail.com Pink and Blue Pages Taskforce Michelle Gentry Anderson, Tulsa Chapter, pnlady@aol.com

REGIONAL APPOINTMENTS Regional Chaplain to be announced soon Regional Editor Marlena Grant, Denver Chapter, mlgrantco@gmail.com Regional Logistics Shari Bennett, St. Clair County, srbennet94@gmail.com Regional Teen Advisor Lorraine Muhammad, Bloomington-Normal, RTALorraine@jackandjillcentralregion.org

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thank you to our Regional Editor, Marlena Grant, Denver Chapter for her efforts to coordinate with Chapter Editors and contacts to gather images and content so that we can share our members stories, programming updates, and regional highlights.

Thank you to father Christopher Fuller, spouse of Mila Fuller, CP Greater Champaign Urban for documenting BLN AWD .

Thank you to IPNRC/Mom Deidre Williams and RTA Lorraine Muhammad for making sure we have plenty of images of our teens in action and always being there to capture the moment.

Thank you to Regional Protocol Chair, Katrina Little, South Suburban Denver for being on site at both Area Work Day events to ensure that Central Region is protocol perfect and to elevate our efforts to deliver excellence.

Thank you to Regional Logistics Chair, Shari Bennett, St. Clair County for her guidance in the planning process for AWD events and providing insight to local teams to help us improve processes.

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. CENTRAL REGION November 2023