SER Sweet Sweet Scoop -Nov/Dec 2022

SER

SweetSweetScoop Highlights&News

Miami

SER

ChapterProgramming

ens Chapter teens n conjunction with ill Foundation with g p tting those funds back into the community, as well as contributing to the Regional Teen Initiative, Dreams Come True in Pink and Blue. This year the teens had the creative idea to give back by inviting families in the community experiencing housing hardships to a private screening on opening weekend of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. It was an opportunity for them to relax and have some family fun. The teens were able to host over thirty participants from Athens and the surrounding area.

Montgomery Chapter Celebrates Healthy Eating at E.A.T. South November 2022 Submission

The Montgomery Chapter of Jack and Jill celebrated healthy eating with the Lollipops and Buttons and Bows. The Jacks and Jills visited E.A.T. South, an urban teaching farm that engages the community by educating about, gathering people around, and growing good food. Located on the banks of the Alabama River in Muskogee/Creek territory, E.A.T. South sits on top of an old railroad switching yard in downtown Montgomery. The students picked sweet potatoes, shelled peas, and held chickens and rabbits. The event was hosted by Moms Kendra Colvin and Porcia Love. Dr. Colvin, a local pediatrician, discussed the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables and the “colors of the rainbow.” A fun time was had by all!

Photo

Photo

Photo 3 Grant Colvin, Langston Colvin, Landon Palmer, Karson Richardson, and Joe Colvin learn about farming with chickens at E.A.T. South.

Photo 4 Catherine Love, Ti’Mia Flowers, and Caroline Love display their books about eating fresh fruits and vegetables and the “colors of the rainbow”.

Photo 5 The Montgomery Chapter enjoys E.A.T. South. Front line Landon Palmer, Kensington Oliver, Catherine Love, Caroline Love, Ti’Mia Flowers, Langston Colvin, Joe Colvin, Markus Palmer, and Grant Colvin. Second line Moms Phyllis Palmer, Celeste Oliver, Porcia Love, Jennifer Flowers, Kendra Colvin

Captions

1 Langston Colvin, Grant Colvin, Catherine Love, and Caroline Love pick sweet potatoes at E.A.T. South.

2 The Lollipops and Buttons and Bows shell peas with Farm Manager, Caylor Roling.

A “Jack and Jill Law Day 2022

The Orlando Chapter hosted its inaugural Jack and Jill Law Day in downtown Orlando. During the chapterwide event, Jacks and Jill participated in ageappropriate day-long workshops where they met a host of Black judges, lawyers and law professors from the City Beautiful

served as guest speakers and panelists throughout the event. Jacks and Jills were afforded an invaluable opportunity to be exposed to

Junior Teens and Senior Teens are fully engaged in a panel-led workshop helping them gain insight into laws and legal misconduct that may impact minors.

who

Jacks and Jills from the 9-11 age group serve as jurors in their mock trial

Orlando Chapter 6 8 age group are eager to meet Black legal professionals to learn about the judicial system and career opportunities.

Mother Monique Worrell and Mother Aneska Arrocha Nicholson enthusiastically discuss the legal profession.

South Miami

ter Windjammers (grad ber bout STEM fields, parti ies, p book drive. The Wind vity pted to outrun and mane

Miami Book Fair

On Saturday, November 19th four Jacks and Jills introduced various authors at the Miami Book Fair. Several South Miami Chapter members also attended the book fair with their families. The South Miami Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. donated hundreds of books at the Miami Book Fair that will help stock books at several bookshelves found around Miami Dade County Every child that visits these bookshelves gets to take a book home

A Day at The Bank!

They discussed needs vs wants and showcased what they learned during a fun and exciting game of jeopardy

The children selected unmarked envelopes which assigned them different ”‘jobs” and income levels and were given a weekly “income” based on their assigned job. The children learned about must have expenses and basic tax education. They then had to calculate how much of their weekly income they had left after these expenses

After their expenses were taken care of, they made a trip to the bank where Teller PNP Shirley James helped them ‘deposit’ their paycheck at the bank teller window and were given a ‘credit card’ for the remaining balance. With their remaining balance they were to go shopping! They had to keep track of their purchases on the back of their card and make sure they didn’t overspend!

They also took a tour of the bank with the bank’s President, Mr James

This was an amazing activity in which the children learned all about money management and financial responsibility It was a very exciting day for our children.

Led by Mom Tia Curtis and Mom Racine Morales, The Lower Age Groups learned about the importance of money management during a fun, interactive event at a local Black owned bank here in Savannah, Ga, Carver State Bank

As Georgians prepare to head to the polls for a runoff election in a US Senate race between two Black candidates, Atlanta Chapter moms decided now is the time to make sure our youngest children are as politically aware as possible. For their November activity, our Pre-K/K, 1st, 3rd and 4th grade groups learned about the political process, participated in a mock voter registration and were able to practice voting on real voting machines in an event at The Westside School in Atlanta. Fourth graders also collected coats as part of a donation drive.

to be

Atlanta Chapter Senior Teens decided to host a showing of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” as a fundraiser on Sunday, November 2. The movie, at Atlanta’s Regal Atlantic Station, is already a blockbuster, earning more than $400 million in its first week in theaters. Atlanta teens used the much-anticipated film as a hook to raise money for the Jack and Jill Foundation and other charities. Chapter families and guests were invited to purchase tickets for the event. Not

left behind, the Junior Teens hosted a fourday November fundraiser for the benefit of the Foundation, selling popcorn via Double Good Popcorn.

The Augusta Chapter’s Elves & Mermaid’s grade group accompanied by Moms and Dads of the chapter spent the morning at the Salvation Army’s Center of Hope in downtown Augusta on November 19, 2022. The Elves and Mermaids learned about the purpose of the shelter and services that the Center of Hope offers to the community. They donated items to the food pantry and adopted a six person family room by providing bedding, curtains, towels, and other essentials to make the room comfortable for families in need. We ended the activity with a discussion about what we are thankful for and more ways to assist the Center of Hope carry out their mission. The Elves and Mermaids fulfilled the following thrusts: Civic and Educational.

Special Interest Grade Group A

“Courthouse Rock” Friskies and Eager Beaver Activity

On Sunday, October 23, 2022, the Birmingham Chapter’s Friskies and Eaver Beavers participated in a program entitled “Courthouse Rock.” Activity. It took place at the Jefferson County Courthouse, in downtown Birmingham, Al. It was an incredible, hands on experience where our Friskies had the opportunity to participate in a Criminal Mock Trial. The children were all assigned roles, characters, and responsibilities necessary to carry out the trial For reference, each child was issued a document containing the summary facts and details of the mock trial. However, this wasn't just an ordinary, make believe playdate. Our children were under the guidance and expertise of Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge Javan Patton, as well as Attorneys Edmond Earle, Steve Walker, Gary Richardson Jr., and Darius Crayton. At the conclusion of the trial, the jury exited the courtroom for deliberation. The court waited in anticipation for the return of the jury. Upon returning to the courtroom, everyone stood up as they would have in a real trial. The selected foremadam delivered the verdict to the court. After the announcement, the courtroom exploded with excitement and one of our judges had to call the courtroom back to order!

Hiking at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

On Saturday, November 12th, the Birmingham Chapter’s Satellites participated in a guided hiking tour to Turtle Rock at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve in Birmingham, Alabama. The tour encouraged the children's awareness of creating deep connections with nature through a variety of exploratory activities. During the trek, The Satellites experienced first hand the benefits of the natural world and how it aids and improves mental health. As they were introduced to local plants and animals native to our region, they learned the importance of ecologicial conservation With its focus on mental and physical health, STEAM, and civic duty, this refreshing experience met our health and recreational thrusts.

Birmingham Teens College Tour

The Birmingham Chapter Teens embarked on their second activity of the program year on Saturday October 15, 2022. Thirty four Teens along with fifteen Chaperones and parents loaded up early in the morning to head to Tuskegee University for a College Tour. With a full day planned from 5:00am 8:00pm, the goal was to provide the Teens with a comprehensive college experience that would allow them to learn about the school, what it had to offer academically, get a glimpse of what student life was like as well as gain some perspective about the college experience.

Jack and Jill University

On the afternoon of Sunday, November 6th, the B

series of financial and leadership modules

They were

in

The financial topics included entreprenlessons, as well as tips and strategies that will help the students envision their personal investment portfolios as they approach their

years. The Crusaders (Grades 3 5) sat for a legislative roundtable one that expounded on the history of voting rights and emphasized the need for all citizens to vote. A mock election followed and each young person participated in an exercise in “civic duty” by casting a ballot for their food selection of choice.

Under leadership modules, the teens and preteens created and presented a personal elevator speech that presents to the world his/her best attributes, skills and accomplishments. The elevator speech was designed to serve as a framework for the college admissions essays and scholarship applications that will await them in the future. Overall, the youth who attended this event provided positive feedback on its merits. The lessons learned will without a doubt enhance each Jack & Jills future pursuits.

y p p

entitled "J&J University" at Eastern Florida State University. Under the leadership of Chapter Program Director Monica Newman McCluney and program committee members Scottie Winslow, Courtenay Blunt, Andrea Wilson and Kelli Addison, chapter youth from Grades 3-Grade 12 participated in rotating activities that earned them Jacqueline Moore Bowles module credits and enhanced their life lessons.

guided

activities by esteemed facilitators such as Rockledge City Councilman Michael Cadore, Vice President of Sales at Space Coast Credit Union (Chapter Dad) Anthony Blunt, and representatives from the host university.

teenage

Buckhead

Buckhead Atlanta Jack and Jill Senior Teens observed the Civic and Legislative thrust during November in true form. Our brave and bright teens met at the MARTA (Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) and navigated their way as a group to the Sweet Auburn area of Atlanta which exhibits a giant mural of Civil Rights giant Congressman John Lewis. They congregated in front of the mural where each teen was charged with presenting 3 legislative contributions of Congressman Lewis. They ended at a local Jamaican restaurant near the moral. This enriching activity was truly bonding and enriching in a unique way as they explored our amazing city and discussed the pivotal work of Congressman Lewis. Our teens are under the dynamic leadership of LTS Suzanne Mitchell and Senior Teen President Ivy Noel Holland.

Leveling the Playing Field

Recognizing the role that golf frequently plays in business, networking, and social opportunities, the Middle Schoolers of the Columbus, GA Chapter participated in a two-part activity focused on learning the fundamentals of the game. An initial Zoom activity was held to cover basic golf facts, the benefits of the sport, and the little spoken of impact of African Americans on the sport. After learning the history and basics of the game, they “hit the links” at the Godwin Creek “Fore Kids” 3 par Golf Course and getting a dynamic overview of the game! They also received hands-on instruction from a juniors’ golf coach covering the basics of club grips and driving and putting the ball. After covering the basic principles of the sport, they played 3-holes of the par-3 course to put their skills to practice. They ended the day with fellowship and lunch!

A special thanks to our Columbus High school student volunteers particularly lead by Coach Faith! Coach Faith is a student at Columbus State University and is on the golf team. She was a golf player in middle school, high school, and a few years at Alabama State University.

Kudos to our fathers who assisted with the small groups and to host moms, DaNae and Yolanda for the vision and execution of a phenomenal experience. Our children will recognize and appreciate the impact golf will have in their lives and in business for years to come.

Coding and Robotics

The Daytona Beach Area Chapter Moonwalkers grade group had the distinctive privilege to learn about coding, programming and engineering on a Saturday morning at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University on Saturday October 22, 2022. The activity was led by The Advanced Dynamics and Control group which focuses on the development and implementation of guidance, navigation and control of aerospace systems and research on a broad range of topics focused on flight dynamics – in a simpler term Aerospace Engineering. The Moonwalkers had a fun filled activity of inputting codes to cause movement in the cardboard robotic arms they built. After successfully remotely operating their individual robotic arm the activity ended with each participant having an opportunity to fly a simulated plane.

Daytona Beach

The Magnolias toured the headquarters of MedShare in Decatur, Georgia, and worked together to sort and package medical supplies that will be sent to healthcare facilities in medically underserved communities. The Magnolias exceeded their objective in sorting and packaging at least 30 pounds of supplies by actually packing 617 pounds of supplies that will be used to help 512 people!

The Magnolias explored the interconnection between health, service, education, and global citizenship through this activity. They learned how global health could be improved by redistributing basic supplies to underserved communities around the globe. They also discussed how hospitals in the United States generate over two million tons of medical waste each year and how many unused unexpired medical supplies and equipment are wasted. They discussed how their support will redistribute this “waste” and positively impact communities in the developing world. They learned that every year, over 10 million children under the age of five lose their lives due to inadequate medical care.

Dunwoody

During the Dunwoody Atlanta Chapter's November Monthly Chapter Meeting, we memorialized our support for Prematurity Awareness Month by wearing purple.

East Suburban Atlanta

The East Suburban Atlanta Chapter (ESAC) hosted its annual Children’s Ball : Tuxedos and Tutus the Sneaker Remix. With its first premiere since the pandemic started, the Children’s Ball came back better than ever! #RemixStyle. This event was nothing less than fabulous and star studded! The event included special celebrity guest, a children’s dance group, a special treat (cookies, candy, and all things sweet) station, and an absolutely good time to be had by all children and adults! It was truly a family gratifying event! #ESACStrong #ESACChildrensBall2022 #TutusAndTuxedos2022 #SneakerBallRemix

Fayette County

November-Prematurity Awareness Month

Fayette County Area Chapter Moms Wear Purple in Support of Prematurity Awareness Month

The Fayette County Area Chapter displayed solidarity during the November Chapter meeting by highlighting Prematurity Awareness Month. FCAC moms wore purple and discussed the importance of maternal health and the support mothers need when faced with preterm birth. To conclude the monthly chapter meeting, FCAC moms watched a public service announcement entitled November is Prematurity Awareness Month: Learn More. This March of Dimes public service announcement highlighted The United States of America’s high prematurity rate and the staggering statistics of African American moms dying each year due to birth complications. Each FCAC mom truly left educated and elevated to spread awareness within the Fayette County Area community.

Caption #1: FCAC Chapter Moms Group Picture

Golden Isles Chapter

Jack and Jill of America

On November 11, 2022, the Golden Isles Chapter of Jack and Jill of America experienced a cultural and cinematic phenomenon by viewing the widely anticipated movie, Wakanda Forever Thirty six moms, dads, Jacks, and Jills collectively shared this experience Families came donned in white to honor King T’Challa and African attire to honor Wakanda. Because the movie delved into several topics including STEM, grief, confidence, appreciation of other cultures, and leadership, it was decided that enjoyment of the movie should not stop at the viewing. After the movie, a reflection sheet will be sent to moms to complete with their families. Using the sheet as prompts, moms are encouraged to hold appropriate conversations with their families using the provided topics and questions as prompts.

During the month of November, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter continued its commitment to voter participation and advocacy. Lead by the Legislative Chair, Bacardi Jackson, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter participated in ‘Souls to the Polls’ on November 5, 2022. Empowered to make a change, dozens joined the traditional march down Sistrunk Boulevard to the African American Research Library, where participants gathered to be a visual representation of the Power of Voting. Joined by many of the Jack and Jills, who created video messages leading up to the march to emphasize the importance of actively participating in the voting process.

From November 7th-11th the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter Rising Stars and Super Stars participated in the Double Good Popcorn Sale to raise funds for the Teen Foundation. Organized by Lead Teen Sponsor, Tammy Williams and Teen Foundation Chair Christian Smith, the goal of raising $500 each was exceeded.

Greater Ft. Lauderdale

ticket sales and 50/50 raffle will benefit the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Foundation.

On November 17th the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter joined the national #jjgoespurple by dressing in purple to raise awareness and support Prematurity Awareness Month.

The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter rounded off the month by celebrating 58 years since its chartering as the Fort Lauderdale Chapter on November 21, 1964. Over the past five decades, the Chapter has contributed to the growth and development of future leaders, continued to serve the community, and has created a lasting impact and legacy to all its members.

Greater Lake Allatoona

Explorers GLAC Grade Group K-2nd Program Activity Hearts of Gratitude

Saturday, November 12, the Explorers spent the afternoon focused on hearts of gratitude. They enjoyed Thanksgiving-themed games, arts and crafts, learned about different cultures and engaged in conversation and reflection on things they are thankful for. The children brought non-perishable food items to donate to a local organization that supports in need families in the community.

Sunday, November 13, the Trailblazers learned the basics about stocks, the stock market, and how a company becomes a stock. They were able to develop an understanding of what wealth is and who makes the most money. They also learned the answers to what money is designed to do, what the Dow is, and why it is important. The session ended with a lesson on how to analyze a stock in two minutes and a timed quiz to evaluate a few companies. This was a combined grade group activity with Grades 3 5.

Sunday, November 20, the Pathfinders took a tour of the Savoy Automotive Museum in Cartersville, GA to discover different models of cars throughout history. Host teens reported on the history of African Americans' struggles in breaking through racial barriers of the race car industry, creating a car association of their own, and the finances needed to create a place in the industry.

Trailblazers GLAC Preteens Grades 6 8 Program Activity Introduction to Investing

Pathfinders GLAC Teens Grades 9 12 Program Activity Savoy Automobile Museum

creator and influencer. She currently serves as co director of the Film and Media Management Concentration at Emory University. In addition to serving as a professor, Historian Nsenga has worked as a journalist and cultural critic for the last two decades. In 2012, Historian Nsenga founded The Burton Wire, an award winning news blog covering news of the African Diaspora. Historian Nsenga recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of The Burton Wire Friday, November 18th with a Black Diamond Affair at the Four Seasons in Atlanta. Congratulations Historian Nsenga on this wonderful accomplishment. GMAC is so proud to call you one of our own! Continue the great work

Senior Teens-November grade level activity

The GMAC Senior Teens engaged in a scavenger hunt while getting to explore new neighborhoods, visit local landmarks and learn about Atlanta. Through the scavenger hunt, the teens practiced delegating and sharing the workload in order to overcome any challenges and be successful in completing the hunt.

Greater North Atlanta

Kudos to the host moms who planned a top notch event

Organizationally to instilling th Understanding t Area who are fo Greater Tampa with Feeding Ta Talented Tenth Teen food and household i course of 3 hours the 5700 people. Our te Tampa Bay to achiev time.

Mother Ruth Rosby from the Jacksonville, Florida chapter was considered high risk because she was carrying multiples. The Rosby twins were born at 33 weeks. When Mother Ruth started having complications the doctor reassured her that the babies would be born early, but would remain in the NICU until they built up their strength.David II was the smallest weighing 2 pounds 8 ounces at birth and needed much more care than his sister Rylea who was born at 3 pounds 8 ounces However, they both prevailed Rylea graduated from the NICU after 3 weeks and David II graduated from the NICU after 4 weeks.

This premature process impacted Mother Ruth’s family by teaching the importance of prenatal and postnatal care. Although Mother Ruth has a medical background, this hit home for her. She explained to family and close friends that her babies were developing differently than a full term newborn, so it was going to be an adjustment Although the journey was not easy, the medical staff was knowledgeable and allowed her to help throughout the process. Mother Ruth and her family adjusted and received the support, encouragement and prayers that they needed. Today, their miracles are 6 years old and are flourishing in their lives. Prematurity awareness will always b d d t h h t d h i t f l th t h h h t y to encourage

Baby Rylea 3lbs 8 oz.

Baby David, II 2lbs 8 oz.

Mother Ruth & Kids

Jacksonville

Exploring Eagles, Busy Bees and Curios Hares put together 503 boxes for the Revive Fellowship Ministries Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Assembly of the boxes is one of the first step of preparation for the food drive Once the boxes are assembled another organization will come in to place in the food items as well as another organization will come in to hand out the boxes to families in need during this Thanksgiving season. Assembling the boxes was the foundation to entire operation and was enjoyed by all the attended the event. This community service effort was also used as a time to review a leadership module with the Jacks and Jills in attendance In addition, to the leadership module the children also had the opportunity to build relationships with other members of the chapter and other age groups. Of course, they worked hard and played hard in the gym of the church.

Miami

Elise and Elle are Mono Mono Identical twins. They are the rarest forms of all 4 types of identical twins. They are nearly as rare as conjoined twins Monochorionic Monoamniotic twins share one sac and one placenta This makes their in utero mortality rate extremely high as they rotate around each other creating knots in their cords Because of this, these sweet babies’ births were induced at 32 weeks gestation to increase their survival rate Elise and Elle were so tiny and stayed in the NICU for approximately 28 days

I am thrilled to share that Elise and Elle are nothing short of AMAZING! My angels are smart, personable, funny, active and healthy Elise continues strives and succeeds with the mildest form of cerebral palsy diagnosed at 2 years old. Prematurity Awareness is important to bring light to issues surrounding premature births, children and NICU mothers. The number one cause of newborn death and disability is prematurity. Multiple gestations have the highest rates of both. NICU mothers need increased access to mental health support while waiting to bring their children home. It is a unique caveat and one of the scariest new mommy ordeals.

I am happy to say that both Elise and Elle are beautiful miracles in every sense of the word .. .

In honor of Prematurity Awareness Month, the November Mother’s Meeting was met with a valuable Presentation with Past Regional Secretary Nyya and her Pop John Hudson. The Hudson Family share their personal story of a Premature Birth, its long term impact and the successes of their beautiful daughter, Jordan.

The Miami Teens are on fire ! They had the privilege of attending a community service project with four very prestigious Miami Dade County judges including our very own Chapter President Julie Harris Nelson. It was a very informative event. The teens had one on one sessions with the judges that truly will make a lifelong impact.

Our Miami Design Fashion District Store featuring our High Fashionable Tote is still available for purchase. All proceeds benefit local non profit organizations & the Jack and Jill of America Foundation

The High Fashion Tote can be purchased online at www.klassikmichellecares.com . Get your fashion tote today! We do it for the kid.

Our Lovely Majestic Miami Chapter wishes you a Thanksgiving Holiday full of Family, Friends and Fellowship Many Blessings of Love this season

Happy Holidays!

In November, We Go Purple!

The Mobile Chapter Grade Groups learned the power of their voice, their vote, and how every vote matters, especially during the midterm elections The Busy Bees and Golden Nuggets took to the streets of Mobile to participate in the “Get Out the Vote Rally ”

Our Teens participated in the amazing Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail. Through the tour of the historic Africatown, the teens experience Mobile’s past and now have a more enriched understanding of the role of African American’s in our city Our Moms Night Out event at the Gulf Coast Classic kickoff concert at Mardi Gras Park was a big hit We sang and danced the night away

North Suburban Atlanta

ANSAC Teens Visit Montgomery

The teens of North Suburban Atlanta Chapter took a journey to Montgomery, AL to visit The Legacy Museum and the Memorial for Peace. The 11,000 square foot museum is built on the site of a former warehouse where enslaved black people were imprisoned and is located midway between a historic slave market and the main river dock and train station where tens of thousands of enslaved people were trafficked during the height of the domestic slave trade. The teens enjoyed learning about the history The Legacy Museum provided our teens with a comprehensive history of the United States with a focus on the legacy of slavery From the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its impact on the North and coastal communities across America through the Domestic Slave Trade and Reconstruction. The museum provided detailed interactive content and compelling narratives .

Norwood, hosted an excellent standing room only Prospective New Mothers Informational. During the chapter meeting, the stories of two mothers were shared about their experience with premature birth the trials and tribulations. Our chapter is grateful to our national and community partner, March of Dimes. Together we can end preventable maternal health risks and death, end preventable preterm birth and infant death, and ultimately close the health equity gap.

Stone Mountain Chapter: Annual Angel Mom Jaye’s Little Library Project for Youth Literacy

Maya Angelou said, “Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his deep and continuing needs, is good for him.”

Dearly departed Mother Jaye Mia Sanford clearly agreed, so our chapter endeavors annually to preserve Mom Jaye’s “Little Free Library”, erected by us in her memory in 2020. The Service Committee, under direction of Mom Dr. Carmen Sulton, led the chapter in refreshing the surroundings and replenishing the supply of books so children at or near the Scottsdale Early Learning Center can develop a passion for reading. The connection between educational attainment, such as literacy, and health outcomes is well known, so our Health Committee, under direction of Mom Dr. Nicole Ross, performed onsite blood pressure checks and shared educational materials on “Knowing Your Numbers”, dangers of hypertension and strategies for prevention and control, through resources provided in partnership with the American Heart Association. Prizes for participation included Tabitha Brown’s latest cookbook and gift cards to Sprouts. It was a spectacular day in service to others!

Tallahassee

Tallahassee

““Show them who you are.” ~ Queen Ramonda

“We are Kings, Queens, Princes, & Princesses! We are light, love, & peace. We are our ancestors’ wildest dreams. We are the future. We are here to create, celebrate, & motivate. Greatness lives within us!” ~ Tallahassee Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

The Tallahassee Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated hosted, for the second time, a private screening of Black Panther to a SOLD OUT audience.

The chapter & community premier on Thursday, November 10, 2022, included a special lesson in “Innovation, Inspiration, & EmPOWERment!

Dad Byron Menchion led the Juniors Grade Group in an Innovation activity as he journeyed guests through many Black Inventors.

Additionally, the Chapter and guests were equally as engaged as Mom Atira Charles (Dr. C.), and Teen President Brantley led guests through an Inspiration activity. Dr. C inspired the audience to lean into their gifts to find their purpose in life. To quote the late Chadwick Boseman, “When you are deciding on next steps, next jobs, next careers, further education, you should rather find purpose than a job or a career.” The Byrd Family led our chapter's Veterans Day activity. Teens encouraged all guests to write an appreciation note. The teens also practiced philanthropy and made a substantial financial contribution to a local association for veterans.

Mom Brandi Tatum Fedrick had her hands full, guiding the youngest grade groups, Lollipops/Gems and Jewels, through affirmation exercises that will fill their cups and keep them EmPOWERed!

The Tallahassee Chapter salutes the eleven community sponsors who made the programmatic event possible, and, of course, special thanks are given to the Event Chair Kimberly C. Menchion, Co Chair Letitia Taylor Brown, Program Director Kimberly Hankerson, and Regional Program Chair/Chapter President Selika S. Sampson for a memorable experience!

The Power of Engagement. The Treasure Coast Chapter members attended the Countryside Family Farms Fall Festival and Maze on Sunday, October 23, 2022. This year’s Festival theme “Get Out and Play” aligned with the National Jack and Jill of America program thrusts for health, social, education, and recreational. Members participated in activities such as navigating through the corn maze to solve the CORNundrums, walking the Old Florida Nature trail, taking a ride on the Orange Blossom Train and the mower go round, zipping from one end of the park to the other with the zipline, hitching a hayride, Hillbilly Hootenanny (still trying to figure that out), and leaving our mark on the graffiti car. Those in attendance enjoyed the fresh air and each other’s company.

The Power of Engagement. Members of the Treasure Coast Chapter hosted a private viewing for the premiere of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever on Friday, November 11, 2022. Members of the Divine Nine and other community groups were invited to attend. Participants were encouraged to wear their favorite African attire to celebrate the theme. The movie was a treat for all. Important lessons learned from the movie included the importance of Unity, Strength, Family, and Pride in oneself and culture.

Thee Power to Make a Difference for All Children. On Saturday, N uhovember 12th, members of the Treasure Coast Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. volunteered for the Friends and Family Day hosted by the Treasure Coast Food Bank. The participants separated, organized, and packaged personal care items such as toiletries, socks, shampoo, hair products, and other items to be donated to homeless individuals living on the Treasure Coast and surrounding counties. Members enjoyed engaging with other individuals volunteering at the event.

The Tuscaloosa Chapter has enjoyed a variety of programming this fall. In observance of Prematurity Awareness Month, the Chapter's youngest grade groups participated in a diaper drive. They joined their mothers in packaging and distributing supplies for babies and families in the community.

The children also gathered to celebrate the harvest season and partake in the bounty of foods grown in Alabama. Grade group co sponsor, Mom Kirsten Henry, created a video presentation to teach the children about the history of African American agriculture and cuisine. She then hosted a trip to the local farmers market, where the children selected items to prepare a soul food dish, including yams, greens, cabbage, and okra.

The Chapter's middle grade group, Twix and Tweens, and the Teens traveled to Wakanda with their families for the "Black Panther" sequel. Participants agreed that it was an excellent movie and a great representation of the culture They were proud and happy to experience it together.