S E R
O F F I C I A L
N E W S L E T T E R
THE SWEET SC OP 2
"Souper Bowl" Season Committed to SERve
SER gears up for fundraising and community service projects focused on food insecurities in the community
December 2021
Prematurity Awareness Story SER celebrates World Prematurity Month and shares inspirational stories of survival from Mothers and families .
SER Chapter Programming Children Cluster, Super Cluster & Teen Summit Updates Back by Popular demand SER BOOK CLUB!
Happy Holidays
WHAT'S THE SWEET SWEET SCOOP?
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CONTENTS
SER SUPPORTS PREMATURITY AWARENESS COMMUNITY+ SERVICE + LEADERSHIP
EDITOR'S NOTE Deadline for submissions is the 20th of each month
4 GREETING ROM REGIONAL DIRECTOR Thank you!! I continue to be blown away by the stellar programming and impactful service projects you are hosting despite current COVID limitations.
6 BEST OF THE BEST PROGRAMMING
Cluster & Super Cluster Registration Opens: January 30 Registration Closes: February 13, 2022 Teen Leadership Summit Registration Opens: January 30 Registration Closes: February 13, 2022
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EXCLUSIVE!
SER CHAPTERS CELEBRATE PREMATURITY AWARENESS 30
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! Running requires you to be
both strong and quick. Here
are some leg exercises to
build bigger quads, calves,
glute and hamstrings.
4
GRADE GROUP ACTIVITIES, HOLIDAY PARTIES AND COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS 03
FOUNDATION, FUNDRAISING & SERVICE UPDATES Teen Summit, Super Cluster and Children's Cluster Announcements FOR INQUIRIES OR SUBMISSIONS: RETOMYKA@GMAIL.COM HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/JNJSSER
DECEMBER 2021 | ISSUE 03
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EXCELLENT CHAPTER PROGRAMMING
Greetings from Regional Director
GREETINGS AMAZING SER MOTHERS,
IT IS HARD TO BELIEVE THAT WE ARE NEAR THE END OF 2021. IT HAS BEEN AN INCREDIBLE YEAR FOR THE SER AND YOUR ENGAGEMENT, PASSION AND COMMITMENT TO OUR CHILDREN AND THE REGION IS BEYOND WHAT WE COULD HAVE HOPED AND WE ARE INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL. OUR MISSION STATEMENT STARTS WITH OUR DESIRE TO MOVE "TOGETHER TOWARD TOMORROW" AS WE LIFT ALL CHILDREN HIGHER, AND YOU HAVE SHOWN JUST HOW INCREDIBLE WE CAN BE WHEN WE EMBRACE OUR DIFFERENCES, LEVERAGE OUR VARIED STRENGTHS, AND RALLY TO A COMMON MISSION. IN ADDITION, MANY OF YOU HAVE GRACIOUSLY HEEDED THE CALL OF THE REGION AND STEPPED UP TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PLANNING OF THE 45TH BIENNIAL NATIONAL CONVENTION. WE CAN’T THANK YOU ENOUGH AND ARE SO LOOKING FORWARD TO WATCHING YOU SHOW UP AND SHOW OUT NEXT JULY!
PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO ENJOY OUR FINAL SWEET2SCOOP NEWSLETTER OF THE YEAR. IN ADDITION TO THE STELLAR PROGRAMMING FEATURES, YOU WILL FIND HIGHLIGHTS FROM CHAPTER THANKSGIVING CELEBRATIONS, RECOGNITIONS OF OUTSTANDING MOTHERS IN THE REGION, AND A FOCUS ON THE EVER-IMPORTANT PREMATURITY AWARENESS MONTH!
MOVING INTO 2022, WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT ALL CHILDREN WILL CONTINUE TO BENEFIT FROM OUR COLLABORATIVE VILLAGE. ON BEHALF OF THE ENTIRE REB, I WANT TO WISH YOU ALL THE BEST THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! SO, ENJOY THE DOWN TIME AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO CHARGING INTO WHAT WE HOPE WILL BE AN EVEN BETTER 2022.
IN SERVICE AND IN LOVE,
RD DARLENE
SER
Fundraising & Community Service
From MAL Takeysha
SER
Programming Committee Updates
From RPC Selika
2022 SER Cluster & Super Cluster Theme: "We Are Black Excellence Lifting Each Other Higher"
Cluster & Super Cluster Registration Opens: January 30 -
Registration Closes: February 13, 2022 Contact: RPCC Tammy Means, RPCTammySER@gmail.com
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2022 Te
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e d r a s h e L i p n e nd All Li
Teen Leadership Summit Registration Opens: January 30 -
Registration Closes: February 13, 2022 Contact: RPCC Tammy Means, RPCTammySER@gmail.com
2022 NATIONAL YOUTH TRIP TULSA
Registration will open: January 10 – 31, 2022 Note: 750 event capacity; Fee: $395 per person (active mothers, fathers, teens, and children ages 5 and older)
April 29 – May 1, 2022 •LIVE JJOA Bedtimes Stories •Black Wall Street/Greenwood District •Black Rodeo
•All-Black Towns
SER Book Club!
It is our distinct pleasure to get the SER Book Club started again! We are ‘Booked and Busy’ with a purpose for the 2021-22 Program Year! We are starting with this quick read so that we can jumpstart 2022 with a bang!! Put our first book on your Christmas wish list and get started while you are on break. Register below and let’s go!
Save the Date
SAVE-THE-DATE, CYCLE 2 BEST OF THE BEST SUBMISSIONS ARE DUE JANUARY 15, 2022.
THE NATIONAL BEST OF THE BEST BI-MONTHLY AWARDS AIMS TO RECOGNIZE CHAPTERS FOR THE EXECUTION OF EXEMPLARY PROGRAMMING THROUGHOUT THE PROGRAMMING YEAR. EACH REGION WILL HAVE A 1ST, 2ND, AND 3RD PLACE WINNER FOR EACH AWARD CYCLE.
THANK YOU FOR DISPLAYING POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON MISSION AND ON PURPOSE WHILE MOVING TOGETHER TOWARD TOMORROW LIFTING ALL CHILDREN HIGHER!
CONTACT: RPC SELIKA SAMPSON, RPCSELIKASER@GMAIL.COM CHAPTER DESIGNEE, CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT: HTTPS://BIT.LY/3SM8DTT
Best of the Best Winners
SSENERAWA YTIRUTAMERP
Regional Editor Committee Member
Let's Celebrate
Shaunté Deas-Banks
"Celebrate Good Times- Come On, Let's Celebrate!"
1 in 10 babies in the United States is born prematurely. African American mothers have a prematurity rate of 14.4%. They are 50% more likely to deliver a premature baby than their White or Hispanic counterparts, with a prematurity rate of 9.1% and 9.8%, respectively.
Research shows that the cause for the disproportionally higher prematurity rates among black women is primarily due to poorer access to healthcare, including but not limited to the following: insurance coverage, obesity, high blood pressure, smoking, and teen pregnancies. A viable solution would include, but again not be limited to, demand for improved healthcare access.
While all of this seems bleak, there is a purple lining! Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated chooses to celebrate prematurity awareness because there is so much to celebrate, as evident in this issue! Defying all odds, there are thriving African American youth throughout this nation, and more specifically the Southeastern Region, who were born preemies but won't allow their early entry to define who they will become and who wouldn't want to take part; in such a Sweet Sweet celebration? Kool & The Gang, March of Dimes and CDC were cited as sources for publishing.
RECM Shaunté Deas-Banks
My name is Dr. Ty Moody. I was hospitalized at 28 weeks and placed on bed rest due to Pre-eclampsia. My daughter, Eden, was born at 30 weeks gestational age. Eden’s birth weight was two pounds. She spent six weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). At discharge, she weighed three pounds. While on bed rest, I received two rounds of steroids which helped Eden’s lungs develop more quickly. Research shows that preterm babies between 25 and 33 weeks have a much better chance of survival when given steroid treatment prior to birth. Though she was still exceedingly small (she was strong). She is now an extremely healthy and strong young lady.
Mom Ty Moody
Birmingham Chapter
Pensacola Chapter
Dunwoody-Atlanta Moms Celebrate Prematurity Awareness Month
Live Oaks learned about entrepreneurship, healthy eating, and effectively utilized their public speaking skills.
ESAC Rocks Prematurity Month
FCAC Celebrates Prematurity Awareness The Mothers of FCAC celebrated Prematurity Awareness Month by wearing purple to our November General Body Meeting. We also made sure to show our awareness by posting photos of moms in purple on our respective social media sites. The Moms of FCAC recognize the importance of prematurity awareness and a number of mothers in the chapter can attest to this firsthand. Our Chapter President, Financial Secretary and Chapter Editor are all moms of Thriving Preemies!
Greater Chattanooga Chapter
Finds Expertise on Prematurity Rates Within Chapter
Power couple, Drs. Nicholas and Shevonda Sherrow are professionally familiar with the maternal and infant health crisis of preterm births. Mom Shevonda is an OBGYN Specialist and Dad Nicholas is a board-certified neonatal medicine specialist. The Sherrows have two Teen daughters in the Greater Chattanooga Chapter (GCC). Both doctors have participated in the Prematurity Awareness Mom Shevonda Sherrow of the Greater Chattanooga Chapter, programming for GCC. Black mothers, with a prematurity rate of 14.4% are 50% more likely to deliver a premature baby than white or Hispanic women, with a prematurity rate of 9.1% and 9.8%, respectively. The cause of higher prematurity rates among black women is inadequate access to health care including insurance coverage, obesity, high blood pressure, smoking, and teen pregnancies. The solution includes a demand for improved healthcare access. Both doctors promote prematurity awareness by encouraging early medical care during pregnancy, a balanced and nutritional diet, and exercise.
an Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, is the owner of Innovative Women’s Health Specialists
Mom Shevonda Sherrow of the Greater Chattanooga Chapter, an Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, is the owner of Innovative Women’s Health Specialists.
Dad Nicholas Sherrow, a board-certified neonatal medicine specialist, of the Greater Chattanooga Chapter is visiting with a patient in the neonatal intensive care unit.
The Fort Lauderdale Chapter was admitted full membership into the national organization during the 16th National Convention in June 1964 and installed on November 21, 2021. From its inception, the now Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter has had an impact on the growth and development of children, not just of the members, but children and families in the community. Chapter Mothers and Associates gathered to celebrate the 57th Chapter Anniversary for a Jill’s Night Out movie event. On November 22, attendees enjoyed a private showing of King Richard, the biographical of Richard Williams, the father of the famed tennis players Venus and Serena Williams. The movie was a powerful reminder of commitment and dedication to develop young Jacks and Jills. In recognition of Prematurity Awareness Month, and in support of March of Dimes, the GFTL attendees wore a shade of purple or a purple flower.
GMAC Goes Purple for Prematurity The Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter (GMAC) celebrates National Prematurity Awareness Month and World Prematurity Day during the month of November. This issue is prevalent in the African American community, as 1 in 10 babies in the United States are born prematurely. During the November Mothers’ Meeting, mothers wore purple to bring awareness to this important issue. GMAC has a longstanding history of supporting the March of Dimes by participating in its annual March for Babies and contributing to its annual fundraising efforts. The mothers of GMAC join Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated in its continued support of the prevention of birth defects and infant mortality.
KNOXVILLE CHAPTER On October 29, 2019, God gave our family the desires of our heart and bestowed upon us our “Bonus Blessing.” God granted me the opportunity to be a mother again to our precious little boy! He gives us so much joy and we cannot imagine life without him. He did not grow under my heart but in it. My heart truly knows NO difference. We love you, our "Love Bug"!
Summer Moore Knoxville Chapter
THE GREEN FAMILY
Tallahassee Chapter
After losing our first daughter, Deja Rose, shortly after her birth in 1995, and struggling with pregnancy loss and infertility after that, we decided to pursue adoption to have the family in which we always dreamed. Since 2003, the Green Family—Marvin Jr., Marhee (20), Cecka, Marvin III (Tre, 15) and Chaela (18)—have been the center of our joy and our children are the heartbeats that make our souls sing.
Tuskegee Chapter
Raises Awareness for the Prematurity Crisis The Tuskegee Chapter wore purple to raise awareness for the prematurity health crisis. According to the March of Dimes 2021 Report Card, Alabama receives a grade of F for a pre-term birth rate of 12.9%. Further, in the United States, the pre-term birth rate is 51% higher among African American women than other women.
CHAPTER
programming
ALBANY, GA CHAPTER
During the month of November, the Albany, Georgia, Jack and Jill teens and middle schoolers focused on “Health and Wellness.” In preparation for the mental and physical demands of school activities, school work, and the holiday season, the teens and middle schoolers chose to equip themselves with a life-saving procedure and learn about a relaxation technique. The day began with a training session in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the proper use of the automated external defibrillator (AED). The group was able to practice their newly learned techniques on medical dolls. Following this activity, the youth participated in a full session of yoga. They learned specific terminology for the yoga poses and the concept of the seven chakras. The group really enjoyed their day of health and wellness and are looking forward to using yoga in the future to help them relax and center themselves.
ATHENS, GA CHAPTER
Athens Jacks and Jills Getting into "Good Trouble" The Athens Chapter spent November getting into “Good Trouble.” Judge Kamau Hull and Clarke County Board of Education president Dr. LaKeisha Gantt talked to local Jacks and Jills about volunteering and community activism. They created an information display for a county library honoring the late congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis. They also collected treats for the children of the Athens Area Homeless Shelter which the moms delivered. Quality time was also spent “Kickin’ It” at Barnett Tae Kwon Do Academy learning about healthy nutrition and martial arts skills.
GREATER TAMPA CHAPTER
A Healthy "Friendsgiving" GTC’s Tiny Tots learned the true meaning of Thanksgiving, the importance of healthy eating and practice of horticulture at Friendsgiving: A Celebration of Giving Thanks and Giving Back. The children joined together to learn about the importance of healthy eating through literature, followed by a short video on Thanksgiving. The Tiny Tots engaged in discussion on what the holiday means to them and were guided on the horticultural practice of repotting plants and permanently placing them in-ground at a local community center. In true “Friendsgiving” style, this activity was open to Prospective New Mothers with small children. The activity ended with food, fellowship and play.
PENSACOLA CHAPTER
Spreading Cheer in Pensacola ahead of the Thanksgiving Holiday The Pensacola Chapter Teens participated in the 5th annual Community Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway organized by the Watson Family Foundation. They volunteered with other local organizations to help distribute more than 750 turkeys and sides dishes to local residents in a drive-up food line. The experience for the teens was priceless. It is an extremely valuable opportunity for children to live the values that they are taught and to have an opportunity to model selfless behavior. The level of gratitude expressed by Pensacola teens was priceless.
SOUTH MIAMI CHAPTER
South Miami Leaps into Literary for Seniors 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.
TALLAHASSEE CHAPTER The holidays are proving to be a season of Thanksgiving for the Tallahassee Chapter. On November 12, the Chapter's Teens and Juniors grade groups received media recognition for honoring Veterans in the Gadsden County area by donating food and showing genuine appreciation for the Veterans' sacrifice for the country. On November 27, the Chapter's Gems and Jewels then kicked off their holiday season as each was tasked with taking a pledge of BENEVOLENCE in order to be afforded the opportunity to write a letter to Old St. Nic! Upon Completing his or her pledge, Gems and Jewels were able to write letters to Santa and drop them in a "special mailbox" for delivery to The North Pole! Tallahassee's youth seemed to clearly have understood the assignments!
TUSKEGEE CHAPTER
The Tuskegee Chapter Falls Back to Fun!
“Fall Back to Fun” was the sub-theme for recent chapter programming for the Tuskegee Chapter. In October, the younger grade groups visited the Rocky Top Pumpkin Patch and had a fun-filled day of running and climbing their way to fulfilling our health and social/recreational thrusts. Also in October, the 'Skegee Teens had exclusive access to Nerd Torch, a local venue, for a day of gaming and social connection. In November, the grades 4-6 group visited the Montgomery Zoo for a day of education with animal scientist and Tuskegee University alumna, Kandi Facison. The participants completed worksheets to identify animal habitats and adaptations. Fall days are fun days in the Tuskegee Chapter! We are Making Opportunities Matter! Growing Our Children’s Achievements, Lives and Service (#MomGoals).
STONE MOUNTAIN CHAPTER
FRIENDSGIVING: Stone Mountain's Senior Teens (9th-12 grade) quickly assembled and stuffed 90 gift boxes for the teachers and staff at E.L Miller. The staff was SO THANKFUL! The teens left an abundance of bottled water and other snacks to fill the counselor's pantry to capacity and give to the students as needed.
GREATER HUNTSVILLE CHAPTER
Huntsville Dresses To Impress... November marked a great month of programming for the Greater Huntsville Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. The Rocketeers (Pre-K), dressed to impress in matching blazers, received tips for public speaking during a private theater class at the Children's Fantasy Playhouse. The Star Gazers (Grades 1-3) and Moon Walkers (Grades 4-5) celebrated the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and envisioned what their own future experiences could be. To highlight the importance of being civically involved, the Dream Chasers (Grades 6-8) learned who their local legislative leaders are and had the opportunity to speak with Madison County District 6 Commissioner Violet Edwards. The Challengers (Teens) rounded out this month's programming thrust with their Financial Resilience activity which focused on learning what they needed to know about purchasing their first automobile.
MACON CHAPTER
HBCU PRIDE Our Busy Bees and Curious Hares had a fun-filled activity, “HBCU Safari and Zoo-mba For Your Health.” They developed their public-speaking skills by selecting an HBCU to represent, learning about each school’s mascot, colors and geographical location. After reviewing the significance of HBCUs, these Jacks & Jills discussed healthy lifestyle choices, concluding with a super fun session of virtual Zumba!
ATLANTA CHAPTER
Atlanta Chapter Heros in Training
Move over, Captain America: We have a new group of heroes in Atlanta
The Atlanta chapter’s pre-K/Kindergarten group completed Community Hero Training weekend during the second weekend in November for their monthly activity. They voted in a special election to choose their favorite “Paw Patrol” pup, Skye, to represent the group, assembled coloring activity packs for children at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, completed an obstacle course, and met other local community heroes. After their rigorous training, each child earned a Hero Badge. Chapter dad, Officer Josh Walker spent the day with the children and created an obstacle course for them.
AUGUSTA CHAPTER
Augusta Chapter Heightens Financial Literacy The Augusta Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc. hosted the second annual Module Mania: The Cheese Keeps Moving activity in October 2021. Children and teens participated in four leadership modules: “Risk-Taking,” “Confidence,” “Communications and Listening,” and “Communications and Public Speaking.” Youth were also engaged in three financial modules, which included “Work Your Money,” and “Where’s the Money.” The final financial module, “Economic Factors that Drive Investments” was presented by National Corresponding Secretary Sativia Leach-Bowen via Zoom, with an audience of teens and children throughout the Southeastern Region. The Augusta Chapter was delighted to share invaluable information pertaining to life skills and financial pearls to enable its children and teens to become confident, successful, and financially savvy adults.
COLUMBUS, GA CHAPTER The Columbus, Georgia Chapter kicked off its Chapter-wide Financial Literacy event with a high energy, interactive game of “Who wants to be a Millionaire?” The kids danced to “Money” themed songs, while showing off their financial intellect answering questions about the stock market, and other ways to invest while making money in the process. The Buttons and Bows identified "Needs and Wants" and the different forms of money. Lads and Lassies/Twixt and Tweens learned about the various methods of making payments through cash, credit cards, debit cards, and checks. The Middle Schoolers/Senior Teens learned why and how to invest and were educated on the risks and rewards associated with the various investment opportunities. They were also advised on the importance of understanding what’s going on in the market and how it could drive the value of a stock up or down. The children participated in giving back by donating canned goods to be given out in the community through a Thanksgiving Can Food Drive.
NORTH SUBURBAN ATLANTA CHAPTER The North Suburban Atlanta Chapter (NSAC) 2nd/3rd graders are something else! The kids were contestants on the Price is Right: NSAC Edition - Financial Madness! The afternoon was filled with games centered around financial literacy. They hustled and ran throughout their home to locate various items in a Scavenger Hunt used to identify financial vocabulary. Can you find a checkbook? Do you have a piggy bank? What’s the difference between a debit and credit card? Do you have any financial literature? The Scattergories discussed careers/jobs and ways to make money. In the midst of it all it was determined the children want to be police officers, fire fighters, a builder, professional athletes, artists, veterinarian, investors and Youtubers! They identified careers and jobs that started with the letters N & S (for North Suburban). There was a special treat of an interview of the Entrepreneur Spotlight: Carter Owens. He happened to set up his own lemonade stand today during the neighborhood garage sale - he earned $65! With an ovation from his friends - he answered questions from his peers around how he came up with the idea, how he set prices, how he sold his product. The kids thoroughly enjoyed the activity and were itching to share and participate. These kiddos are on the right path to greatness and success! As a takeaway they will be collecting monies during the year for Loose Change and also donating items in November to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA).
The East Suburban Atlanta Chapter (ESAC) hosted its first annual Veterans Day Celebration. This event was nothing less than stellar! The event included guest panel speakers, a video tribute to the late General Colin Powell, a video tribute from ESAC children to the veterans, celebrating all mom veterans, pop veterans, and even a former Jack veteran were just a snippet of the grand affair! It was truly a family pleasurable and enlightening event. Despite this being ESAC’s first Veterans Day program, it definitely will not be their last!! To ESAC’s veterans and to all veterans , THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE BECAUSE FREEDOM IS NOT FREE!
ESAC Pays Homeage to Veterans
GREATER NORTH ATLANTA CHAPTER
Emerging Leaders Take Flight with the Tuskegee Airmen On Sunday, November 14, 2021, the GNAC Emerging Leaders participated in their monthly grade group activity entitled: “Take Flight with the Tuskegee Airmen” at the Aviation History and Technology Center located in Marietta, GA. During this activity, the children had the pleasure of meeting with Retired United States Air Force Lt. Col. Walter Robinson, a Tuskegee Alumnus and Jack and Jill Father. The group learned about General Chappy James, the Tuskegee Airmen, and their accomplishments and contributions to the US Air Force. The Emerging Leaders also had the opportunity to tour the first integrated aircraft in the United States Air Force. Retired Lt. Col. Robinson demonstrated military commands for the Emerging leaders and taught the young Jacks and Jills to march in formation. At the conclusion of the activity, the Emerging Leaders placed individual American flags throughout the Memorial Garden to acknowledge our appreciation and love for the honorable and faithful service to those who have served in the various branches of the United States Military.
JACKSONVILLE CHAPTER
Fall Festival The Jacksonville Chapter’s Fall Festival was one for the history books. Led by Social Chair Shantel Davis and Co-Chair Tiffany Woodie, the Fall Festival offered something for everyone. Each of the grade groups participated in an activity focused on Jack and Jill’s health thrust. In addition, there were loads of activities and contests for families to enjoy including a scarecrow making contest, pumpkin paintings, sack races, basketball, and kickball. Not to mention, the Pops were on Patrol helping the moms with activities and having some time to bond amongst themselves. The Fall Festival was not just dedicated to fun for the family, it was also an opportunity for the Teens to engage in social action. The Teens filmed a PSA describing the importance of getting vaccinated to protect against COVID-19. The PSA was an opportunity for the Teens to understand the importance of being at the forefront of community issues. To view the PSA, click the link https://youtu.be/vO2NAT1OVRU
SOUTH MIAMI CHAPTER
Blessing Boxes The children in the Riptides group of the South Miami Chapter gathered in the spirit of Thanksgiving to design a “Blessing Box”. The Blessing Box will provide books, nonperishable food, and toiletries for neighbors in need. The Jacks and Jills also lead a lively discussion on acts of kindness and gratitude, enjoyed a group workout, and practiced making healthy food choices at the event's nutritious brown bag lunch buffet. The Riptides received a book bag to transport library books, a daily gratitude journal, and a bookmark with words of encouragement.
MEMPHIS CHAPTER
4th & 5th Graders Learn their Civic Duties in Mock Trial of Gold E. Locks vs. the Bears!
Pop Calvin Biggers, Jr., a Legacy of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., was able to break away from his hectic schedule as a Tennessee Assistant US Attorney and help our Preppies (4th & 5th graders) learn about their civic duty. Attorney Biggers specializes in practicing criminal law and has served as a state and federal prosecutor. It was only natural that POP Calvin, an active member of the Father’s Auxiliary, engage with our Preppies. Our Jacks and Jills learned about the court system through the re-enactment of a riveting play, Gold E. Locks VS the Bears. Everyone came away with firsthand knowledge about how the court system works, and how having a great attorney can lead to some amazing results – Gold E. Locks was found NOT Guilty of trespassing! What an amazing twist!
MOBILE CHAPTER
Today Was Not The Same The Mobile Chapter was honored to have its own fellow Mobilian, attorney and now author, Jatrean Sanders present her newly published children’s book, “Today Was Not the Same.” The book discusses the death of George Floyd and the racial injustices in the African American community through the eyes of a child. Jatrean read the book to our children and teens and led them in a discussion on the need and ways to express themselves when dealing with racial injustice. Children were engaged and expressed themselves openly during the discussion.
MONTGOMERY CHAPTER
Montgomery Chapter Honors it's Own Dr. Nichole Thompson, who currently serves as the Montgomery Chapter’s President, has been tapped to lead Montgomery’s Lab on Dexter, an innovation driven entrepreneur and technology hub located on one of America’s most historic streets, Dexter Avenue. Dexter Avenue is home to the state’s Capitol as well as Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was pastor. The world’s conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate and business culture, and the inequity of economic opportunity is happening in Montgomery, Alabama. As a result, the Lab on Dexter marks the intersection of technology, entrepreneurial, and social innovation in a deeply meaningful way while fueling lasting economic prosperity among underrepresented companies and entrepreneurs. CP Nichole is a serial entrepreneur with companies both domestic and abroad and is honored to lead Montgomery in yet another historic phase as the city works to support and elevate local talent.
MONTGOMERY CHAPTER
Montgomery Chapter Hosts Juvenile Justice Day On November 13, 2021, the Montgomery Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated presented “JNJ Juvenile Justice Day 2021.” This included an age appropriate guest panel discussion about pursuing a career in the legal profession, criminal intent and the rules of evidence lead by Circuit Court Judge Lloria James. The discussion was immediately followed by a Mock Trial in which each courtroom character, from judge to juror, was represented by a Jack or Jill. This created opportunity for lively discussions about courtroom decorum and techniques for direct and cross examination. Guidance was provided by Judge James, Attorney Charles James, II, Attorney Kendall C. Dunson and Judge Samarria Dunson. Participants enjoyed this engaging approach to learning about the criminal justice system, with selected jurors rendering a verdict at the conclusion.
MIAMI CHAPTER
Majestic Miami Focuses on Health...
The Majestic Miami Chapter focused on medical matters during October, casting an important spotlight on Breast Cancer Awareness and community health. Dr. Lynn Labrousse, chair of our Health Care Initiatives Committee, participated in a breast cancer awareness and education webinar with Dr. Anita Petteway-Tyler and Dr. Paula Anderson-Worts called “Caring for Our Pair.” The chapter also partnered with the city of Miami Gardens for "Take Your Loved One to The Doctor" - a campaign to encourage improved health outcomes for residents. The program included bringing a “Mammography Van” to Miami Gardens to make screening easy and convenient. Finally, chapter mothers shined in our Instagram selfie campaign wearing beautiful Jack and Jill Breast Cancer Awareness pink ribbon t-shirts.
NASHVILLE CHAPTER
The Nashville Chapter had a busy November! From families gathering to clean up its Adopt-A-Street neighborhood, to grade group activities, to a membership activity- a virtual tutorial on how to decorate for the holidays! Who needs HGTV when you have talented moms in your chapter? Hostesses Jeresther Thorpe-Page and Eleanor Sheffield collaborated to guide moms on how to make the perfect tablescape- just in time for Thanksgiving! Families participated in two community service projects- food or fund donations for Project 1938, benefitting the Nashville Second Harvest Food Bank, and using a little elbow grease to pick up trash and beautify adopted streets in North Nashville. Many grade groups held their activities the weekend prior to Thanksgiving. The chapter's youngest grade group, the Dreamers, will likely be asking Santa for a puppy, as they learned all about taking care of animals, from their guest visit from the Nashville Humane Society. Prayers for all families to to enjoy a safe, and happy Thanksgiving with loved ones!
NORTH SUBURBAN ATLANTA CHAPTER
NSAC Mom Kristina Lyles Participates in Atlanta Marcus Center/Autism Speaks Walk North Suburban Atlanta Chapter Mom Kristina (Steen) Lyles and her family recently participated in the Atlanta Walk in Partnership with Marcus Autism Center. The event was coordinated by Autism Speaks, a national organization that focuses on advocacy, research, and support for those living on the spectrum. Mom Steen is a We Are One Champion Mom, and also serves as PreK/1st Grade Group Sponsor. NSAC is so proud of Mom Steen and her family for their participation in this walk for a such worthy cause!
ORLANDO CHAPTER
“Let’s Shine Together while Learning, Leading and Leveling Up!” The children and teens of the Orlando Chapter participated in the bi-annual Jacqueline Moore Bowles (JMB) program. This all day, chapter wide program, discussed leadership and financial principals in a fun and age-appropriate setting. The 2-5 age group learned how to count, identify and sort coins, painted a piggy bank and collected loose change for the Foundation. The 6-8 and 9-11 age groups developed a business plan centered around a custom created snowflake ornament. They created a commercial to market the ornament for sale. The proceeds of the ornament sales will benefit the Foundation. The senior teens learned healthy money management principals, how the FICO credit score is measured and its resultant impact on their financial future. Orlando Mother, Monique Worrell, State Attorney of the Ninth Circuit closed out the JMB program with a discussion on the 6 Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship.
SAVANNAH CHAPTER
Island Ecology Experience
For their November activity, the Guys and Dolls, Princes and Princesses, and Lads and Lassies of the Savannah Chapter learned about global leadership by taking a trip to the Tybee Marine Science Center. They learned about a variety of ocean dwelling species, the importance of the 4 R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Refuse), and how all are connected globally by the earth’s oceans. Everyone can be a good global citizen if you make green choices in your homes and communities.
STONE MOUNTAIN CHAPTER
Stone Mountain's High Flyers (3rd-5th grade) toured The Flat Rock and Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, a historically African American community. From the days of enslavement to its rise as a close-knit agricultural community, Flat Rock thrived because of the communal bond of its citizens. It was founded in 1822 with the birth of DeKalb County. Following the Civil War, some African American families remained in the community, working together to ensure success and safety in rural Georgia.
SUNCOAST CHAPTER
“THE DISCOVERY”
The Suncoast Chapter Cuddlies, Buddies and Youth grade groups visited the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center in St. Petersburg, FL on Sunday, November 7th, 2021. The group boarded a catamaran to discover how important marine life is to the waterways along with how to care and protect one of the most important natural resources, the ocean waters. The grade groups had the opportunity to learn more about the precious ocean waters and marine life by having some handson experiences with animals while on an ecotour. They explored Tampa Bay and learned more about its history and the marine life found in and around the Bay. After the tour, the youth and mothers spent time together at the Splash Pad and the Glazer Family Playground adjacent to the Discovery Center for continued fun and fellowship!
TUSCALOOSA CHAPTER
Education and Relaxation!!!
The Tuscaloosa Chapter focused on education and relaxation this month. The chapter's Legislative Committee hosted a virtual panel discussion, "Debunking the Myths of the COVID Vaccine," moderated by Mom Kirsten Henry. The featured panelists, chapter moms Dr. Keisha Lowther and Dr. Verquita Scott-Conley, addressed questions and explained the facts about the vaccine currently available for young children. Moms also took some time for self-care and pampering during a Spa Night organized by Mom Kim Morrissette. Participants enjoyed facials, massages, games, and lots of laughter during this stress-free event.