SGNITEERG DNA SNOITARBELEC YADILOH RETPAHC
The Sweet Scoop 2
HOLIDAY EDITION
PLUS!
Special Chapter President Wishes throughout SER
JANUARY 2022 ISSUE 4
SER CELEBRATES THROUGH SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP WWW.JACKANDJILLINC.ORG/SOUTHEASTERN-REGION/.COM
Contents
SER Chapter Programming SER Chapter Presidents New Year Wishes SER Updates and Announcements
To my SWEET SER Mothers, I don’t know about you, but despite the varied challenges, 2021 flew by lightening fast! Nonetheless, I welcome you to a glorious new year that is destined to bring excitement and amazing opportunities for the SER. Please take the time to enjoy this special holiday issue of the “SWEET Scoop.” Our Editors Committee continues to raise the bar while providing you with the latest information on happenings region-wide. Each January meeting, we celebrate JJOA Founders Day and honor those who had the foresight to start this exemplary organization. In the spirit of solidarity, I look forward to seeing all mothers on social media utilizing the national digital frames and letting the world know that we do great things for kids! January is also a time of service to others. I have been thoroughly impressed with the posts that I have seen from chapters as they honor the legacy and life of Martin Luther King, Jr. through impactful and creative service activities. COVID-19 has not stopped the SER! Finally, I wanted to bring your attention to our Inaugural State of the Regional All-Call! On Wednesday, February 9th at 8pm EST the Regional Executive Board would like to cordially invite all SER mothers to join us on zoom and hear about all things SER! Come and hear a summary of what practically all of our regional sub committees are doing and progress they have made. Our special guest will be our very own National President, NP Kornisha McGill Brown, bringing national updates including those regarding National Convention! Again, it is my sincere hope that each of you enjoyed a fun and memorable holiday season and officially, HAPPY NEW YEAR!
In Service and In Love,
RD Darlene
Merry and Bright Wishes from Atlanta
The Redd Family (l to r – Lawson, Pamela, Hamilton, Bruce, and Stanford)
May the sun always smile on you. And may peace always guide you right. Walk joy, walk brave, walk love, walk strong And may life always give you song. ~adapted from Patrica Schonstein Have a Happy Holiday season and a blessed New Year!
Atlanta Chapter President (CP) Pamela Redd
Olamina Palm, CE Anika Palm, Eric Palm
The Atlanta Chapter celebrated this holiday season by teaching its Jacks and Jills from Pre-K through sixth grade about Kwanzaa and instilling values of community and pride. Mothers from each grade group curated age-appropriate activities around the Kwanzaa principles. For example, the Pre-K children made Umoja (Unity) bracelets, while third graders learned about Ujamaa (cooperative economics) by supporting black businesses and using their creative skills. Together all grades gathered virtually online to celebrate, present what they learned, and participate in a much-loved part of our annual holiday celebration: a chat with their fathers about the importance of each principle.
ATLANTA CHAPTER
Greeting and Merry Christmas from The Johnson Family and the Extraordinary Families of the Augusta Chapter, where I have the Awesome Pleasure to Serve as Chapter President. We want to pause at this time of year to embrace the joy of family and friends, but also to remember the Real Meaning of the Season. We hope that the Joy of the Lord will continue to shine its Grace and Mercy on each of your lives, and that you carry the Spirit of the Season into the New Year. CP Monica Johnson Augusta, Georgia Chapter
The Augusta Chapter Hosts Breakfast With Santa The Augusta Chapter hosted the annual “Breakfast with Santa” event at the E.W. Hagler Boys & Girls Club. As one of the chapter’s signature service events, all members came together as Santa’s helpers, including Associate Jewels and Father’s Auxiliary to create a fun and festive event. Santa made a special appearance with holiday music, hot breakfasts, and gifts that guests received from the safety of their vehicles as they drove through the Pajama Jam. Each participant received holiday cards, pajamas collected and distributed by the Teens and a hot breakfast complete with treat bags filled with holiday crafts and snacks. The Chapter says it was honored to host an impactful service event that fed and clothed the children of the community with a hot breakfast and 125 pairs of pajamas. The Augusta Chapter has the Power to Make a Difference: On Mission and On Purpose.
Blessings from the Birmingham Chapter President On behalf of the moms of the bold and beautiful Birmingham Chapter, I wish all our sister moms and the families of the sweet, sweet, Southeastern region a holiday season filled with love, joy, and memorable moments. May God continue to bless and keep each of you in the New Year! Remembering the reason for the season, Birmingham Chapter President, Rhonda Cantelow
CE Vivian Williams and Family
Birmingham Mothers Reconnect for the Holidays On Sunday December 12th, the Membership Committee hosted its Mother's Holiday Social! The event took place at the City Club, on the 31st floor of the Regions Harbert Plaza in downtown Birmingham. After many months of zoom meetings and virtual activities, it was truly refreshing for the mothers of the Birmingham Chapter to enjoy one another and connect face to face. Mothers enjoyed time fellowshipping over dinner and dessert as they geared up for the evening’s activities. After dinner, mothers participated in an ornament swap, holiday games, and line dancing. The Mother’s Holiday Social was a memorable evening filled with wonderful conversation, laughs, and reconnecting.
Warm Brevard County Greetings
Chapter President Mia Hosey and her lovely family, bring you warm well wishes for a very Merry Christmas from Brevard County Chapter!
Oh What Fun In Winds and Waves for Brevard County On December 12, 2021, Brevard County Chapter gathered on one of its many beautiful Brevard Beaches to celebrate Christmas with their families. With food, fun, and fire, members laughed, bonded, and enjoyed the wind and waves. During their celebration, they were blessed with a visiting Mom from Tampa, an Associate Mom, and a few Potential New Moms. As the evening came to a close they made smores and sang Christmas Carols.
Reflective Greetings from Buckhead Atlanta Chapter President Before we light our sparklers for 2022, let's take a moment to reflect on everything that we learned and experienced in 2021 – all the highs and lows. As you take inventory of 2021, consider James 1:2-4: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Each new day gives you and your loved ones another opportunity, another blessing, and another memory. Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy New Year! May God continue to bless you and your family! CP Candice Tate
CP Candice Tate, Horace Tate IV, and Olivia Tate
All Work, then Play for Buckhead Atlanta Chapter Families of the Buckhead Atlanta Chapter had an exceptional week of service volunteering for Meals on Wheels Atlanta from December 13 - 18. Dearly departed Mom Jovita Moore served on the board for Meals on Wheels Atlanta and in her honor the Chapter delivered meals and worked extremely hard to make a difference in the lives of the seniors that needed meals for the holiday season. The chapter extends it's sincere appreciation to it's Community Service Chair Danielle LaMarr & Co-Chair Chiquita Smith for organizing the event!
On Sunday, December 19, 2021, the ladies of the Buckhead Atlanta Chapter then celebrated the holiday season at Eleanor’s Place and had a blast reconnecting and celebrating the holidays with a gift exchange. A huge thank you to Social Event Chair Yolanda Foreman for an amazing evening!
Greeti ngs fro m the Colum bus, G A Chap ter
CP Pam Watson
CE Crystal Shahid
Columbus Chapter Hosts 22nd Beautillion The Columbus, Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. held the 22nd Biennial Beautillion Ball on Saturday, December 18, 2021 featuring fifteen outstanding young men. This class, appropriately themed as “Rise,” exemplifies courage, academic excellence, and leadership in the classroom and community. They are the future! Four of the featured young men were Jack and Jill members of the Columbus and West Georgia Chapters. Congratulations to Chapter President Pamela Watson, Beautillion Chair, Shannon Chambers, Co-Chairs Dr. Tujuana Wiggins and Shannon Watkins, and all the various committee leads and members who executed an incredible Beautillion season. The evening was truly magical, and it will be interesting to see how these young men transform their community and the world through service and leadership! Several members of the Southeastern elected Regional leadership team were present: Regional Director Darlene Whittington, Member at Large Takeysha Lewis, and Regional Secretary Sharon January. National President Kornisha Brown served double duty bringing greetings to guests and as a Beaux Mother. Several appointed National and Regional Leadership Team members joined as well.
Greetings from Dunwoody-Atlanta
Chapter President Denise Daisy & Family
Chapter Editor MaKara Rumley & Family
Foo d, F ami in D unw ly and Fun ood -Atl anta
Food, fun, music, and holiday cheer (with special guest...Santa)!! A round robin of activities to choose from, which included, Christmas Bingo, Kwanzaa Trivia, and cookie decorating. We adopted 9 children from GIVING GRACE, a local Atlanta charity, so that they could have a Happy Holiday too. Our parting gift to the children were delicious hot cocoa bombs. The following “Thrusts” were our focus: Social/Recreational and Cultural – Kwanzaa principles
East Suburban Atlanta Chapter
Chapter President Sha'Ronda McRae & Family
Chapter Editor Latoya Hunter and her Jack
Oh What Fun It Is to Ride COVID Protocols All the Way The East Suburban Atlanta Chapter (ESAC) hosted its annual holiday celebration. This event did not disappoint! The event included musical chairs (adult and children’s versions), decorating stockings, photos with Santa, ornament making, basketball, mixing, mingling , prizes and so much more! It truly was an action-packed affair! With all this fun, certainly one would think rules had to be broken, but not on ESAC's watch, all covid protocols were followed! It was truly a family pleasant event! ESAC wishes all families a safe holiday and a blessed New Year.
Greetings from the Fayette County Area Chapter
Chapter President Cheryl Brown and Family
Fayette County Area Chapter Ready to Mix and Mingle The Mothers of the Fayette County Area Chapter (FCAC) of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. decided to enjoy an evening out. The chapter's Member Relations Committee organized FCAC’s Holiday Social. Moms enjoyed an evening of great food, live music and a much needed time of fellowship and fun. Moms agreed unanimously it was great to get out and see fellow Sister Moms!
Holiday Cheer from Greater Chattanooga Greetings from CP Tonya Mahlahla and the gracious Greater Chattanooga Chapter families. We are committed to doing our best to implement the national goals and strategic plans at the Chapter level. We are excited to work with Jack and Jill mothers across the nation to develop future leaders and make a difference for ALL children. May the New Year bring you wonderful Blessings, peace, and more love. Wishing you all a joyous 2022! Below: Chapter President Tonya, Wesley and Marissa Mahlahla
Above: Greater Chattanooga Chapter Editor, Sandra C. Affare, PhD; her husband, Dr. Gabriel Affare; and their daughter, Jill Elisabeth
Greater Chattanooga Chapter’s Christmas Party on a Farm
On Saturday, December 4, 2021, the Greater Chattanooga Chapter hosted a festive, family-style private Christmas Party at the Evelyn Center at Crabtree Farms. This 2,500 square foot facility and covered porch provided significant room for our Jack and Jill families to decorate cookies, create their own ornaments and a bonfire for s'mores. This Christmas on a farm brought the warmth of family and the cheer of Christmas to life. Moms and Dads enjoyed their meal on the lawn while listening to Christmas music and watching fellow Jacks and Jills enjoy being together once again (as shown in one of the photos). Program Director LaTasha and the planning committee dressed in holiday clothes and facilitated fun for everyone. Happy New Year from the Gracious Greater Chattanooga families to you and yours!
Greater Chattanooga Chapter middle school (Twix and Tweens) and elementary school (Snickers and Smarties) Jacks and Jills at the Chapter Christmas Party Greater Chattanooga Chapter PD LaTasha Rogan, her husband, Dr. Jerome T. Rogan, and their daughters
Chapter President & Family
Merry Christmas from the
Greater Ft. Lauderdale Chapter
Chapter Editor Candice & Family
Deck the Halls with Greater Fort Lauderdale The Greater Fort Lauderdale (GFTL) Chapter rounded the year off with ‘Ice: A Frozen Christmas Experience,’ a Holiday Party held on Sunday, December 12, 2021. This year, decked out in shades of blue, the GFTL Chapter was able to resume its holiday traditions. The event was held at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Ft. Lauderdale which provided many activities for children and adults. Families enjoyed a night of food and fun with dancing, singing, and performances from varied grade groups. Hats off to the Programming Committee who was able to capture the Chapter holiday vision. The Chapter collected gift cards for a named charity: Kids in Distress.
As we reflect on the meaning of this holiday season, I am reminded of the blessings of family and the special village we share in Jack and Jill. In this New Year, let us continue to grow in our commitment to the mission of Jack and Jill. Wishing you and your family a new year filled with love, peace and happiness! In Service for ALL of our Children, President Zandra Rogers Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated
Greater Metropolitan Atlanta is Blessed to Be a Blessing The Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter (GMAC) mothers celebrated the holiday season of giving by fulfilling the Christmas wish lists of more than 30 children and families at the Fulton County Department of Family and Children Services. Some children brought holiday cheer to the senior residents at the AG Rhodes Nursing Home by reciting poems, reading scriptures, and singing Christmas carols while other children donated food to a local food bank. GMAC Chapter teens donated toys to the youth residents at the Carrie Steele Pitts Home and Christmas gifts for the senior residents at the AG Rhodes Nursing Home. Our Father’s Auxiliary, “Big Jacks,” held a virtual holiday giving drive and will donate coats to the children in the after-school program at the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA. During this holiday season, GMAC continues to make a positive and lasting impact on its community and knows how very blessed they are and how important it is to BE A BLESSING to others.
Greater North Atlanta Wishes You a Happy Holiday The Greater North Atlanta Chapter wishes you a New Year filled with time to reflect on all that you’ve accomplished; insight into new CP Kelly Johnson and Family hopes and dreams; and an abundance of love, laughter and blessings to cherish and share with others!
CE Anne Everett
Greater North Atlanta Celebrates Garden Lights and Holiday Nights Greater North Atlants Chapter (GNAC) kicked off the holiday season by celebrating “Garden Lights, Holiday Nights” at Atlanta Botanical Gardens. The magical evening included a visit from Santa and everyone received a specially made GNAC Christmas ornament. The glowing botanical gardens provided a beautiful backdrop for family photos. Additionally, always keeping service in mind, families brought baby bathtubs filled with bubble bath and baby cream to donate to North Fulton (Wellstar) Hospital.
Jacksonville Jingles Greetings
Chapter President LaWanda Gray
Chapter Editor Latasha Garrison
Jacksonville Chapter Jumped into Character All Month The Jacksonville Chapter made merry and bonded as families and mothers during the holiday season. The festivities started with the favorite Christmas Movie themed family Holiday Affair. Mother Erica Willie chaired the event. The Holiday Affair Committee got families excited by releasing a movie trailer which you can access by clicking this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfZ8sHmi3Y4. Families dressed up as characters from A Charlie Brown Christmas, the Grinch that Stole Christmas, Polar Express, The Christmas Story, and Nightmare before Christmas. Mother Camille Coates-Clark and her family won the holiday costume contest with Dad Clark dressed as the Grinch. Santa, the Grinches (several dads brought the Grinch to life), elves, and Santa’s helpers were on hand to take pictures, make snow, and help families 360 and, of course, to make a Christmas TikTok .
The children enjoyed bounce houses and the teens participated in a no bake bake off. Needless to say this was a magical way to begin the Christmas season. For the next Christmas adventure, the Social Committee created a night of bonding, games, and dancing at the Mother’s holiday social. Mothers “brought out the bling” and looked oh so fierce and festive. During the month of December, the Chapter also raised money for a local charity. This season was filled with good will, cheer and sheer joy because the Jacksonville Chapter was able to celebrate with one another while remembering the real reason for the season. Happy Birthday, Jesus.
Knoxville The Rosser Family The Charles Family
Knoxville Chapter Making a Difference District-wide Holiday Wishes from our family to yours! Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! CP Aja Rosser, Justin Rosser, and daughters Naomi and Lydia Rosser May this holiday season bring forth all the wonders of your heart! CE Shenika Welch-Charles, Lance Charles, and daughters Daenerys and Briseis Charles
The moms of the Knoxville Chapter have been busy little elves this month. They celebrated the spirit of Kwanzaa a bit early with their “Nia Night” Families purchased items from a grocery list and packed bags to distribute to families in need. The chapter ended the school semester with a “Week of Giving” to Vine Middle School in Knoxville by showing up each day for a special surprise and/or treat for the teachers and faculty. COVID severely impacted the morale for teachers, and the chapter's daily gestures and random acts of kindness made a huge difference,
Thriving Together, A Season's Greeting from Lake Spivey's Chapter President On behalf of the Lovely Mothers of the Lake Spivey GA Chapter that are ”Thriving Together” and focused on impacting lives of children in our community, Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year! Continued prayers and Blessings to all families in the Sweet, Sweet Southeastern Region! CP Tonya Smalls, Lake Spivey Chapter Chapter President Tonya Smalls Chapter Editor Mecole Leverette
Lak e Sp ivey Mak Cha es G pter ene Don rou atio s n to She Loc lter al In conjunction with the “Home for the Holidays” Christmas event, The Lake Spivey Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., collected and presented a donation of toys and over $1,000 in gift cards to Haven House this Christmas season. Haven House is a local shelter for mothers and children suffering from domestic violence. The goal is to continue to partner throughout the community to make it better for all children.
A Christopher Robin Christmas Greeting Worthwhile
Chapter President Tisha Davis & Family
Chapter Editor Aleshia Watson & Family
Macon Chapter Helps to Impact Over 2000 Area Families The Macon Chapter Teens kicked off this holiday season in service by participating in the Anita Ponder & Friends Christmas Gift Wrapping and Give-Away at the historic Macon Terminal Station. Jacks & Jills purchased, wrapped, and sorted toys that were presented to underserved children on Christmas day. Teens also served Christmas dinner at the culminating feast for families in attendance. As one of the chapter’s flagship events, the chapter helped to impact over 2,000 Macon families.
Many Christmas Wishes from Memphis Chapter President
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2022. May the spirit of the season bring you light, love, and joy. Memphis Chapter President Tracy Wilkins McGee
Memphis Chapter President Tracy Wilkins McGee
Memphis Chapter Editor Myra McCaskil Crenshaw
Memphis Chapter Spreads Holiday Cheer with Santa Express & Giving Back To Memphis Youth The Memphis Chapter spreads Christmas joy, happiness, and fun with Santa Express with Black Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children, families, and guests took pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus and grabbed a Christmas treat bag on the go! All families shared in the Christmas giving spirit as over 400 donations of coats, scarves, clothes were collected and to be delivered to families at Vance Avenue Youth Development Center, a social services center and a true beacon of light for the Memphis community which provides services to include tutoring, meals, clothing, educational life skills, and more to children and families in need. Happy Holidays from the Memphis Chapter families to yours!
Love Runs Deep From the South as Miami Chapter President Sends Holiday Cheer
Greetings From Miami Chapter President Judge Julie Harris Nelson With DJ, Julian, Pop Patrick l, Peyton and Kandis. Blessings from our family to yours! We love you- now say it back!
Miami Chapter Editor Heidi Barker and her Jacks, from left: Hapi (9) and Heru (11); and Teddy the pooch (15). We wish you all a beautiful holiday season, and a productive and blessed 2022!
Miami Chapter Helps Provide a Very Merry Christmas to Underserved Youth The Majestic Miami Chapter spread holiday cheer to underserved families at a festive “Lunch with Santa” event on Sunday, December 12. Each Miami Jack and Jill family donated a $25 gift for Santa to give to excited children at the Miami Bridge Family Center, which promotes youth development, supports families in need, and helps kids and teens reach their full potential. A very merry time was had by all!
Mobile Chapter President Encourages Remembrance of the Reason for the Season
"Christmas is a season of enjoying the simple things that make life beautiful. This holiday season let us cherish what’s truly important, Our Family Friends, and Cookies. As we remember the birth of Jesus, may the true spirit of Christmas shine in your heart. The Mobile Chapter wishes you a joyous holiday filled with peace love and happiness." Mobile Chapter President Danielle Roberts
Mobile Celebrates Reasons to be Joyful
The Mobile Chapter Teens held a toy drive for the Boys and Girls Club on Saturday December 11, 2021. They were able to collect over 100 toys for the children in the Mobile area to ensure they had a Merry Christmas. Afterwards they participated in the annual Progressive Dinner to socialize and share reasons for being joyful this holiday season.
Chapter President Nichole Thompson pictured with Dad Robert Thompson, and daughter Kassidy Thompson.
Chapter Editor Porcia Love pictured with, Dad J C Love, and children – Caroline, Catherine, and James.
Montgomery Chapter Partying with a Purpose On December 11, 2021, the mothers of the Magnificent Montgomery Chapter gathered for a Holiday Happy Hour filled with cheer and charity. They enjoyed sprits and refreshments as they reminisced over good times, played games and exchanged gifts. However, their most important and exciting activity was packing hygiene bags for a local charity. Each mom was tasked with bringing clear, oversized ziploc bags filled items that other moms really need. All donations went to Aid Inmate Mothers, a local charity that provides services to Alabama’s incarcerated women with emphasis on enhancing personal growth and strengthening the bonds between inmate mothers and their children.
Nashville "On behalf of the Nashville Chapter, we would like to wish all of our beautiful mothers and families in the Southeastern Region a very joyful Christmas and a greater New Year! We are truly grateful for God’s blessings of family and love. As we usher in 2022, we continue to LIFT- Loving and Inspiring Families Together!" -CP Velicia “Lisa” Horton
CE Celia Conley and Family
Nashville Hosts Apollo-Style Celebration
The Nashville Chapter celebrated the Christmas holiday in style- with its annual family party! As always, the hardworking committee added a fun twistthe theme was a Motown Christmas! Families celebrated by wearing retro chic outfits reminiscent of the good ole days, and enjoyed hearing the “Temptations” and playing Pass-the-Mic, complete with KiKi Shepard and Sandman!
North Surburban Atlanta President Reminds You to Count Your Blessings As we look back on this memorable year, let’s please continue to count our many blessings — family, health, friends, and our amazing mother’s organization, Jack and Jill of America, Inc.! Happy Holidays! North Suburban Atlanta Chapter President, Cecily McDaniel (Michael, Brennan, Laine and Madeline too!)
Chapter Editor Dana Ewell & Family
Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas On Sunday December 5th, 2021, the North Surburban Atlanta Chapter (NSAC) held its annual chapter-wide Christmas party. The theme this year was "It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas," an indoor/outdoor iceskating experience. Families enjoyed delicious s'mores, a custom hot chocolate bar, and a festive holiday meal all while being socially distanced. The glorious NSAC Children's Choir performed Christmas carols to mark the magical event, and the DJ played holiday music when they weren't performing. In the spirit of giving and service, six Metro Atlanta families holiday wishes were fulfilled. North Suburban Atlanta was able to provide clothing, toys, electronics, and gift cards to these families in need. In addition to the holiday family celebration, NSAC was also able to host prospective new mothers and the Cherokee County Provisional Chapter moms!
Orlando President Stresses Importance of Family Orlando President Keisha Francis Holiday Greeting As we reflect on this Holiday Season, my Holiday wish is that we each cherish the precious moments we share with loved ones. We must not take these moments for granted as tomorrow is not promised. Wishing all good health, happiness, hope and abundant blessings. May God Bless you and your loved ones with peace, love and faith. We look forward to welcoming you to our City Beautiful for National Convention 2022. Happy Holidays! CP Keisha Francis – Orlando, FL
Orlando Chapter President Keisha Francis, spouse Greg and children Grier and Rio
Orlando Chapter Editor Kimberly Clark, spouse Lorenzo and children Tori and Taylor
Orlando Chapter Celebrates Christmas Caribbean Style The families of Jack and Jill of America, Orlando Chapter gathered for a Holiday Celebration – Caribbean Style! The event hosts collaborated with the local Caribbean Chamber of Commerce to ensure that many elements of island culture during Christmas were incorporated into the day. The president of the Chamber opened the program with a presentation about the origins of food and cultural influences. Participants enjoyed food representing several different islands and had fun taking photos in traditional island costumes. The DJ entertained on the steelpan. The children made masks for the Junkanoo parade in Jamaica, Haitian ornaments and holiday lanterns. Donations of diapers, toys and maternity apparel were collected to benefit Haiti. The festive atmosphere resulted in a memorable experience as chapter families fellowshipped in person for the first time this program year.
Pensacola Chapter
Chapter Family Holiday Celebration
Caring at Christmas Community Service Activity Pensacola Chapter
Stone Mountain Chapter President Spreads Cheer
On behalf of The Stone Mountain Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, The Key Family wishes our Sweet Sweet Southeastern Region Jack and Jill family all of the hope, wonder, and joy that the Christmas season can bring! May the gift of love, the gift of peace, and the gift of happiness, be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year! President Marissa Key & Family The Stone Mountain Chapter
Chapter Editor Kristi R. Fultz-Butts & Family
The Stone Mountain Chapter is Home for the Holidays The Stone Mountain Chapter enjoyed Home for the Holidays: A Jingle ‘Jama Jam. Families picked up healthily prepared meals, received holiday gift bags that included Black Santa tshirts and enjoyed the festive sounds of holiday tunes while having fun times with a 360degree photo booth. The event was nothing short of amazing but safely enjoyed outdoors to regard COVID-19 prevention protocols upheld by the chapter.
Suncoast Chapter Wishing you and your loved one’s peace, health, happiness, and prosperity in the coming New Year! Chapter President Tiffany Williams Gooding & Family
Whatever is beautiful. Whatever is meaningful. Whatever brings you happiness. May it be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year. Chapter Editor Cheryl Bradbury & Family
Suncoast Goes Entrepreneurial for Holiday Activity On Saturday, December 4, 2021, the Teens of the Suncoast Chapter participated in a hands-on educational and entrepreneurial activity entitled "Candle Making University," which encompassed the programming thrusts of Education and Social/Recreation. The teens learned how to make a candle, package the candle, and provide a brief marketing/sales presentation on how they would sell the artisan, hand crafted product they created. In addition, prior to, during and at the end of the activity, the teens completed several modules which included, Financial Literacy Module #4, "You, Your Job, Your Career" and leadership modules #12, "Utilizing Your Strengths"and #10, "Communication and Public Speaking." The focus of the modules were to align and pay attention to the importance of choosing a career, but also encouraging the teens to be entrepreneurial in establishing a "small side" business by leveraging their own creative skills, strengths and talents. At the conclusion of the event, the teens enjoyed a social/networking event with one another over food and fellowship at the home of Chapter Editor Cheryl Bradbury.
Tallahassee Chapter: Joy•Love•Peace•Family
Another year of success and happiness has passed. With every new year comes greater challenges and obstacles in life. On behalf of the Tallahassee Chapter and my family (affectionately known as The Stackhouse & Sampson Krewe), we wish you courage, hope and faith to overcome all of the hurdles you may face. In this 2022 New Year, I wish for you a superb January, a dazzling February, a Peaceful March, an anxiety-free April, a sensational May, and joy that keeps going from June to November, and then round off with an upbeat December. With Love & Prayer, Regional Program Chair, Selika Stackhouse Sampson Tallahassee Chapter President
Tallahassee Chapter Editor Shaunté (C), Carsen (L) and Clarke (R)
Tall aha ssee Cha pter Tha for the nkf ul Hol iday s The holidays have proven to be something for which the Tallahassee Chapter is truly thankful. The chapter participated in several Community Service projects throughout the month of December. Much appreciation to partners who assisted with making the holiday season brighter for others: The Tallahassee Housing Authority; Chief Cornerstone Construction, Inc.; Big Bend Homeless Coalition; Tallahassee ‘Remember Me’ Project for Teenagers in Foster Care; Hope Harvest Food Pantry for helping tackle food insecurity; & the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc.
The chapter also held it's first in person activity for the program year on December 12, thanks to Santa's little helper a.k.a. Program Director Kimberly Hankerson and her mighty elves who did a magical job at transforming a local clubhouse into a fun and whimsical toy workshop. Families were entertained by the 360 photo booth, they danced, feasted, and donated new toys & clothing for a local toy drive benefiting Tallahassee and surrounding areas. From Florida's First Chapter to all Merry and Happy Everything! 💕💙💕 #LongLiveJackandJill #JJOA #JJTLH #JJChristmas #JJHomefortheHolidays
President and Family Send Jolly Holiday Greetings from Tuscaloosa Chapter From our home to yours, wishing all Jack and Jill families a holiday season and New Year full of joy and laughter. May peace, love and prosperity follow you always. – CP Mara & Family
Tuscaloosa Extends Holiday Cheer The Tuscaloosa Chapter extended holiday cheer in the community by sharing gifts and crafts with a local elementary school and by participating in service events and festivities across the city. Area teens kicked off their holiday break from school with a fun night out, cheering on the University of Alabama basketball team. Chapter Moms also took a break to enjoy an evening of fellowship and sisterhood during a mothers-only holiday gathering. They donned sequins and jeans for a classy-casual dinner out. Despite “stealing” a few gifts during a game of Dirty Santa, everyone remained on the Nice list. Here's to high hopes your holiday season has been just as enjoyable- best wishes for a blessed and happy New Year from the Tuscaloosa Chapter!
Tuskegee Chapter President Wishes for All A Healthy Holiday I wish for the holidays to be filled with love and laughter. I wish for us to be healthy, safe and able to join with our families and friends, without risk. I wish for peace, unity, and understanding for our families, our communities, our nation and our world. Happy Holidays! Tisha Lowery, Tuskegee Chapter President
Chapter President: Tisha Lowery, Chapter President & Ryan Lowery, Teen President
Chapter Editor: Tamara Smith, Chapter Editor, Antoine Smith Sr., Antoine Smith II, Teen Foundation Chair and Andrew Smith
Tuskegee Chapter Hosts Impactful Holiday Activities
The Tuskegee Chapter celebrated the holiday season in a quieter, yet impactful way. In a typical year, the chapter hosts a holiday dinner party that is open to prospective mothers and a family adopted through the local Department of Human Resources. This year, the teens hosted a virtual holiday pajama party with families gathering at home. It was a lively event with games like Christmas Jeopardy. The chapter also adopted a family and delivered gifts including a catered holiday meal. #momgoals
Season's Greeting from the West Georgia Chapter President As we approach our fourth holiday season as a chapter, we are simply grateful—grateful to be a part of this wonderful organization that puts children first and grateful to have the Power within us to Make a Difference in the lives of all kids. I personally am most grateful for the sisterhood of the beautiful mothers of our chapter. It does take a village to raise a child. As we continue our local charge to Execute in Excellence, I feel blessed that we have one another and are raising our children Together—Toward Tomorrow. We wish you Village Love. CP LaConia (Elle) Dean
Chapter President LaConia J. Dean and the Dean Family
Chapter Editor Jackie Asare and Family at Christmas
West Georgia Chapter Highlights December and the Holidays! As West Georgia Chapter (WGC) closed out programming for 2021, the chapter was so thankful to all its sister-moms for the amazing programs created in service to the Jacks and Jills of the chapter throughout the year! West Georgia was blessed to host its last meeting of the year, as an in-person event, with its annual ornament exchange which has become an anticipated holiday tradition for the chapter! As members exchanged ornaments and decorated their trees, the ornaments given to one another signify the ties that bind members together during the holiday and throughout the year. This December members also celebrated their handsome beau, Blaze Maynard, who was presented by the Columbus Georgia Chapter, and their beautiful Belle Josephine Glass, who was presented by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. WGC bid adieu to 2021 and wishes all the wonderful blessing of Christmas with peace, love, and joy in 2022!
Williamson County Chapter My wish for 2022 is to always remain thankful and find joy in the present. Oftentimes we focus on what happened (or didn’t happen) or try to plan what is to happen. Instead, in 2022 I want to focus on what is happening in my present circumstances and be able to find the blessing and the joy in today. I wish the same for all my sister-moms. “This is the day the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24 Lori Breaux-Mitchell Williamson County Area Chapter
South Miami Leaped Into Literary The children of the South Miami Chapter participated in a heartwarming community service project entitled "Leaping into Literacy for Seniors.” The children from the Pinwheels and Riptides groups read books with uplifting messages, black characters, and holiday themes aloud for a video recording. The recorded readings were put together to create storytime videos for senior citizens. In addition to their storytime videos, the children assembled stockings at their Holiday Social to make their video presentation extra special for the senior citizens. The storytime videos and stockings were delivered to Sunny Hills Assisted Living Facility.
Bringing Joy to the World from Savannah Chapter President
Wishing you a joyous holiday season with peace, love & cheer in the New Year! - Chapter President Tara Aikens & Family (Tara, Tori, Justin and Jordyn)
Wishing you joy, peace and good health in the New Year! Chapter Editor Brandy Scott Lee & family (Kenny, Brandy, Kenneth, Carter and Zadie Harper Lee)
ATHENS CHAPTER
Chapter President Family CTP Simone, CP Michelle, Meshach (Legacy) & CTT Sasha Phillips
The Moms of the Athens Area Chapter enjoyed celebrating all the holidays of this season and giving back to the community. New Moms Kena, Felisha, Tracie and CP Michelle hosted a Christmas/Kwanzaa event. Attendees decorated cookies, discussed the seven principles of Kwanzaa and made care packages for the local homeless shelter with items donated by Chapter Jacks and Jills. Several moms went to watch one of the Chapter's youngest Jills, Ella Sewell, perform as a rat soldier in the Alice DePass School of Dance’s production of the Nutcracker. It’s the season of joy and faith. Let us all come together in the spirit of peace on Earth and goodwill towards all. From my family and the Moms of the Athens Chapter, Have a Happy Holidays and Prosperous New Year. CP Michelle Phillips
Chapter Editor Family Eric, CE Mariel & CTVP Obayemi Blake
SER Body and Soul March Madness Health Challenge When you focus on taking care of your mind, body and spirit, it enables you to recharge so you are able to be a better you, which benefits not just yourself, but your family, too. March Madness is an exciting time for fans of college basketball. Some people like to keep up with the action by completing tournament brackets in which they predict the winners of each round of games. At the end of the tournament, the player with the most correct predictions is the winner. The Sisterly Relations Committee is “challenging” all 46 chapters in the Sweet, Sweet Southeastern Region to participate in the 2022 “SER Body and Soul March Madness Health Challenge” from March 15- April 15, 2022. The purpose of this challenge is to encourage our Moms to work together while improving each other’s health through active workout. Here is how the challenge will work: 1. Chapter Presidents will inform their respective chapters of the guidelines between January 11 – March 1, 2022. 2. In order for the committee to establish brackets for this friendly competition, each participating chapter will need to sign up by March 4, 2022. 3. Presidents can sign up their chapters by sending information to Sonya Love (sonya.love3@gmail.com) and Evita Wells evitacpa@aol.com) with the subject line SER Soul Body Health Challenge AND Name of the chapter. 4. The Sisterly Relations Committee will create and send tracking spreadsheets to the Chapter Presidents after chapters have signed up. 5. Brackets will then be established and posted each week beginning March 15 – April 15, 2022. Chapter Presidents will receive information weekly and will share with their chapters accordingly. 6. Winners will be announced, and awards will be given during the National Convention in Orlando, FL in July 2022. A 30-day challenge is a month-long period to implement small, simple daily actions that can result in life-changing outcomes over the long term. The challenge may be guided, or it may be self-directed. Either way, 30-day challenges can be fun and engaging. We are looking forward to seeing and celebrating not only the fabulous results but the wonderful sisterly bonding the “Body and Soul March Madness Health Challenge” will produce. SER Sisterly Relations Committee Members, Sonya Love, Chairperson Shelia Baker Bande’ Virgil Evita Wells