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The Sweet Scoop
FEBRUARY 2022
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ISSUE 05
OFFICIAL SOUTHEASTERN REGION NEWSLETTER
THE FOUNDERS DAY ISSUE SPECIAL MLK DAY PROGRAMMING SECTION
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Issue 5 THE SER FOUNDERS' DAY & ASSOCIATES APPRECIATION EDITION
SER Celebrates Founders Day DIY tea with backyard leaves
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Associate Appreciation Month Interview with stylist, Madi Ross
MLK Programming Kicking Off Black History Month
THE SCOOP 04 Editor's Note 07 RD Letter to SER 10 Regional Scoop 18 Social Media
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24 Upcoming Issue Deadlines
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Chapter Name
Notes From the EDITOR
We are so happy to present the 5th issue of the SWEET SWEET SCOOP to the Southeastern Region. In recognition of our 84th Founders Day Jack and Jill of America we are so excited to share the amazing programs that many of our chapters created to commemorate the celebratory day. We are also excited to share excellence in programming that SER chapters created for Dr. MLK Day as well. Special thanks to all of our Moms and Chapters who participated in the social media campaign for Founders Day and we look forward to sharing our GO RED campaigns in our next edition.
SER Executive Board Celebrates Founders Day
SER and Executive Board shares in the 84th Founders Day of Jack and Jill of America social media blitz! Thanks to all of the SER Chapters for you participation in downloading and posting your social media frames of our Moms and Chapters! It was a resounding social media success!
Atlanta Chapter
Atlanta Chapter mothers celebrated a virtual Founders’ Day on Wednesday, January 12. The event commemorated the origins of our beloved Jack and Jill along with photos from the early years in Philadelphia. Also honored was the foresight of Mrs. Elizabeth Macomson, who organized the Atlanta Chapter in February 1951 and became Atlanta's first chapter president. Then-national President Mrs. Elizabeth Seay of New York installed 34 mothers on September 16, 1951, stressing the importance of stability and security in developing healthy, happy children. Those first Atlanta Chapter mothers began the tradition of local service and charity projects addressing the health of women and children. Mothers were afforded the opportunity to hear about the connection between the important work of the founders as it correlates to the work of mother members today who support the children, organization and community. The event concluded with local singer Danny Clay's a cappella serenade to moms with Luther Vandross’s song “So Amazing.”
Atlanta
The Atlanta Chapter Associates and tenured moms gathered December 12 at the special events venue Twin Ponds Escape -- owned by Associate Deirdre Wolff -- in Douglasville to celebrate the holidays. While the Associates had several virtual events during the past two years, the holiday party was the first time many of them had gathered in person since the beginning of the pandemic. New 2021 Associates were introduced and welcomed into the group by Associate Chair Alfreda Mayes. Current Chapter President Pamela Redd and Vice President Shana Davis welcomed the group and talked about the chapter's "Quiet Power" fine art fundraiser and how Associates could support the effort. The Associates spent the rest of the evening catching up with each other, sampling a beautifully decorated Jack and Jill-inspired charcuterie spread, and having delicious holiday-themed .
Augusta The Augusta Chapter observed Founders’ Day virtually in January 2022. The occasion celebrated and paid homage to founding mothers and charter members who founded the Augusta Chapter 52 years ago. A visual oration and video tribute of the poem Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou was presented to honor and remind moms that they are every woman. Past National President (PNP) Joli Cooper served as the distinguished speaker. PNP Joli shared her 10 Jack and Jill lessons in leadership which invigorated and inspired mothers to continue to serve passionately. The program concluded with fellowship and a virtual charcuterie board lesson. Well done, On Mission and On Purpose.
Brevard Co.
The Crusaders, the Grade Group for 3rd-5th graders were spreading their legal wings via Zoom. The children were able to speak with Chapter Mom, Attorney Nicole Hosey as she was able to interactively take the children into meaningful dialogue about the law. Viewing pictures of a court room with details of where the clerk sits, the jurors, the defendants, prosecutors, and the judge are located during a trial. The Blessed, Beautiful, and Bout’ Business Brevard County, FL Chapter celebrated Founders' Day by having the Father’s Auxiliary showcase their career to the pre-teens and teens; allowing them to have a broader view of the career fields as they navigate their future. The chapter collected non-perishable food for the Sharing Center and personal items to be donated to the Salvation Army.
Columbus The Columbus, Georgia Chapter celebrated Founders' Day/Associates Appreciation Day with the theme “Dreams of Our Mothers: Past, Present, Future - We Can Because They Did.” From the talent provided by each grade group to the outstanding speakers representing the past, present, and future of Jack and Jill, the audience was wowed by the enthusiasm for the organization and recognized that our future is bright. The Associate Mothers were presented with flowers and a small token of appreciation from the Chapter to thank them for their support as it is recognized that it’s on their shoulders that the chapter currently stands. Charter Member Juanita Booker and National Associate Chair Vickie WilliamsWiley were recognized during the event. Following the program, guests took a walk back down COLGA memory lane. Pictures from the past, historic memorabilia, and the opportunity for the Associates to reminisce with each other as they poured over the photos was priceless time spent. A delicious to-go brunch was provided as gatherers departed the memorable day.
Dunwoody Atlanta On Thursday, January 20, 2022, during the virtual Dunwoody-Atlanta Chapter’s monthly Mothers' meeting, it celebrated Founders' Day. The history of Jack & Jill on the national and chapter levels was reviewed as chapter members enhanced relationships by using a discussion prompt to share reasons for joining, what they hoped to achieve this program year, and expressed chapter legacy visions. Lastly, each mom was given a gift to memorialize the special day.
Fayette County
As the Fayette County Area Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc, celebrates Founders’ Day, they also want to celebrate the Charter and Lifetime Members of our chapter. The first FCAC organizing meeting was held on March 20, 1999, and led by Tonya Cureton Curry and Veronica Pearson Curry. On September 24, 2000, FCAC celebrated its installation as the 37th Chapter in the Sweet Sweet Southeastern Region of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. FCAC also celebrated 20 years of service to our children in 2020. Under the leadership of our current President, Cheryl Brown, we continue to serve our communities and provide engaging programming “for the children”. 1) Tonya Cureton Curry - Charter and Lifetime Member • 2) Gina Martin - Charter and Lifetime Member 3) Pamela J. Sims - Lifetime Member • 4) Melinda White - Lifetime Member • 5) FCAC Charter Members
Greater Chatanooga The Greater Chattanooga Chapter Honors its Associates The gracious Greater Chattanooga Chapter (GCC) is Blessed to have four amazing Associates. Associates Nicelle Price-Gray and Kimberly Spears are sisters who were legacy members when the chapter chartered. They are advocates for ALL children; Associate Nicelle is an art instructor at the STEM School of Chattanooga and Associate Kimberly is a College Counselor at Tyner Academy. Associate LaTrice Currie-Leslie was GCC’s second Chapter President. Professionally, she has been a news anchor, health reporter, & public affairs host since 1995. Jack and Jill Life Member, Wonjen Bagley transferred to GCC from the Boston Chapter. She is an Assistant Professor in the School of Health Professions at Dalton State College while pursuing her doctorate in Social Work. GCC is grateful for the love and support of these Associates and are honored to celebrate them. Long live Jack and Jill! Kimberly and Nicelle photo: Sisters: Associate Nicelle Price-Gray (Left) and Associate Kimberly Spears (Right) both work in Hamilton County Schools in Chattanooga. Associate Wonjen Photo: Jack and Jill Life Member, Wonjen Bagley, Assistant Professor in the Department of Allied Health and Social Work at Dalton State College Associate LaTrice photo: GCC Associate LaTrice Currie, news anchor at news Channel 3 WRCB, in Chattanooga
Greater Huntsville The Greater Huntsville Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc was delighted to be able to celebrate Founders’ Day and Associates’ Appreciation Day on Sunday, January 16, 2022 via a virtual ceremony. Members were treated to musical selections by teen Joshua Boyd who played “Mama” by Boys To Men and youngest member Eden Kiel who gave a few notes on the piano. Chapter Moms were then honored to have special guest Regional Director Darlene Whittington give words of reflection and encouragement.
Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Celebrating Founders' Day for the Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter (GMAC) Mothers and Associates (GMAAG) is a time to reconnect to the founding principles of Jack and Jill of America, Inc (JJOA). On January 20, 2022, GMAC and GMAAG celebrated the JJOA 84th Founders' Day with a virtual toast, trivia game, and accounts of the instrumental role Jack and Jill plays in chapter members lives and the community. GMAC saluted its Associates’ fundraising and education efforts addressing suicide prevention, human trafficking, and COVID-19 safety precautions as well as their Mothers Away From Home initiative for local JJOA college students. GMAC and GMAAG are resolved to preserve the rich history and legacy of this illustrious organization.
Greater North Atlanta GNAC Associate Moms Keep Bonds of Friendship Strong
The Greater North Atlanta chapter has a strong Associate Mom group that meets regularly and plans meet-ups throughout the year. This fall, the GNAC associates enjoyed a fabulous Sunday brunch, and took a wine tour in the North Georgia Mountains a month later. In January, the associate moms will join the chapter-wide Founders' Day celebration where they will share words of wisdom and receive special gifts as a token of appreciation. This active group has several more bonding activities planned for the remainder of the year.
Greater Tampa Greater Tampa Brings the Magic Greater Tampa Chapter (GTC) brought the “magic” to Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Founders’ Day 2022. Hosted virtually on Jan. 22, the committee planned an enchanting funfilled family afternoon to highlight the organization’s National, Regional and local history from the perspective of children and Teens of GTC. Themed “Black Magic,” the event featured a Black Magic Showcase for the entire family; magic show supplies were provided to attendees in advance including top hats, card decks and magic wands for added flare to the festivities! The magical afternoon concluded with a Parade of Presidents including 1st GTC President Rudean Crawley, Past National President and GTC Associate Joli Cooper, and current President Dianna Allen-Quin.
Macon Macon Chapter Pays Homeage The Marvelous Macon Chapter would like to pay tribute to Past National Vice President (PNVP), Sylvia McGee. As the chapter prepares to host Children’s Cluster, it would be remiss not to recognize her as the mastermind behind this most impactful Regional event. She is also credited as spearheading the launch of The Pen Pal Club which enhances children’s writing and social skills. PNVP Sylvia has served as Southeastern Region's Member At Large (1989), Regional Director (1991–1993) and was a two-term National Vice President (1996 and 1998). She is a shining gem in the Southeastern Region whose light and legacy continue to live throughout this organization. The Macon Chapter celebrated 84 years of service and leadership on January 30, 2022, virtually with a “Candid Conversation About the Greatness of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated With Sylvia McGee!” The Macon Chapter salutes you PNVP Sylvia for your innovative and selfless contributions to Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated!
Memphis Memphis Chapter Hosts Virtual Founders' Celebration The Marvelous Mothers of the Memphis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America celebrated Founders’ Day on Sunday, January 23, 2022, in sophisticated style with Fascinators, Hats, and High Tea all in a virtual setting. The Memphis Chapter mothers were delighted to celebrate 75 years of service to the community and the magnificent 15 charter mothers who founded the Memphis Chapter on August 28, 1946; one of the first ten chapters of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Mother members were pleased to be joined by the Memphis Associate Mom Group, especially their eldest living Associate Mother Shirley Cobbins. Additionally, mothers were joined by the mothers of the newly chartered chapter of North Mississippi established on October 3, 2020. Mothers enjoyed live entertainment by poet LaShawn White, with an original piece written in honor of Associate Mothers. All Mothers were welcomed to participate in the hat & fascinator competition, and share beautifully decorated high tea tablescapes. This special Founders' Day Celebration, although virtual, continues to serve as a reminder that no matter the circumstances, we will continue the legacy of this extraordinary organization. “Long Live Jack and Jill.”
Mobile
The Mobile Chapter celebrated and honored our associates at an Associates Appreciation and Founders' Day Celebration on January 23rd at The Helena. Esteemed associate Grace Wyatt, former Southeastern Region (SER) Regional Director, and former National Vice President honored mothers with a wonderful speech that was uplifting and encouraging. Mobile has 29 Associate Jewels, and they deemed it a pleasure honoring them on this wonderful occasion.
Mothers also held a remembrance for former Chapter President and Associate Jewel Sandra Kennedy-Owes who passed away on January 13, 2022.
Montgomery The Magnificent Montgomery Chapter takes pride in celebrating its Associate Members. Led by Sandra Washington, the Associates Group is 41 strong and support the local chapter’s needs as well as the Jack and Jill of America Foundation. The Associates have participated in a number of activities, including the Chapter’s 65th Anniversary Royal Rose Affair and the 66th Anniversary Time Capsule Burial Ceremony. The Associates recently fellowshipped at a paint party and visited the “Mothers of Gynecology” memorial that honors three enslaved women that were experimented on by Gynecologist, Dr. James Marion Sims. The Montgomery Chapter embraces the institutional knowledge and wisdom of its Associate Members.
Nashville The Nashville Chapter celebrated Founders' Day on Sunday, January 16th. While virtual, the afternoon was filled with special moments, including hearing a poem recitation from talented Teen Alivia Dove, reflections from Associate Mother Gail Williams, to a saxophone serenade by artist Kevin Matthews. It was also a treat to have so many of associate mothers join. The attire was black dresses, with pearls and hats or fascinators. Participants received cards and a diamond pen to send a special note of encouragement to another mother. Long live Jack and Jill!
Nashville The Nashville Chapter was honored to host its associate mothers. Led by Associate Ingrid Collier, the members meet regularly to strengthen their bonds, and support chapter events. Most recently, they gathered at a local black-owned establishment, and later joined the chapter for its quarterly Adopt-A-Street neighborhood clean-up. Again fortunate, the chapter had Associate Gail Williams serve as the inspirational speaker for Founders' Day, and several associate mothers joined the virtual meeting. Nashville is thankful to have this special group of ladies support their endeavors, and look forward to celebrating them during the Chapter's 75th Anniversary in a few months.
North Suburban Atlanta
This year the North Suburban Atlanta Chapter Founders’ Day program was held via zoom during our January Mother’s meeting. The program was opened by an inspirational message by the Chapter Chaplain, and a moment of silence was given to reflect mothers who have departed. The program was very insightful as members sang the Jack and Jill National Hymn and recited the Jack and Jill Mother’s Prayer. Mothers were thrilled that the Associate group gave words of inspiration about motherhood and the benefits of Jack and Jill. The group's special treat was the privilege of having 23rd Past National President Tamara Turnley Robinson speak about the history and programming excellence of North Suburban Atlanta Chapter.
Orlando
“Preserving the Past & Inspiring the Future” Orlando Chapter Historian Latasha Adewale along with New and Transfer Mothers presented an oral history journey of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. The video montage along with a creative virtual memory book were a celebration of our past and honored the mission of our Founders. The Orlando Chapter was installed on November 10, 1956. Fifteen mothers were inducted and Adrienne Harrison, who had been the driving force in establishing the chapter, was elected President. Last year, the Founders' Day committee commissioned a unique poem and a custom designed ‘Black Cameo’ brooch to commemorate the chapter’s 65th anniversary. The Black Cameo serves as a “portrait of our regal beauty and solidarity of purpose”. Each Founders Day, a mother member is randomly chosen to hold the keepsake and wear it to chapter meetings, offering it as a symbol of womanhood, grace, kindness, resilience and inspiration.
Pensacola
Associate Jewels
Savannah The Savannah Chapter celebrated “The Essence of Jack and Jill” during their 84th Founders' Day Celebration on January 22nd. Program attendees enjoyed a special tribute to Jack and Jill Founders and Charter Members, reflections from alumni and legacy Mom, Rachelle Gregory, and Teen President John Parks, III, as well as special remarks from 15th National Past President and Chapter Associate, Shirley James. Chapter Associates received a special gift of Appreciation for their support to the chapter and organization.
Stone Mountain
Founders' Day Tea & MLK Day
35 Years of Legacy and Leadership for the Next Generation: In January, The Stone Mountain Chapter hosted a delightful virtual Founders’ Day Tea. Mothers received hand-delivered gift boxes of tea varieties and decadent treats. Chapter members beamed in fascinators and jewels, while listening to National history. Associate Jewels joined to take mergers on an intimate trip down memory lane. A fitting start to 2022, because January commenced the chapter’s anniversary celebration: 35 Years of Legacy and Leadership for The Next Generation! Beginning the celebratory festivities, members and Associate Jewels premiered its 35th Anniversary social media profile frame on Facebook.
Simultaneously, the new year ushered in community service for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: a virtual auction of chapterprovided goods and services to benefit a local non-profit. Through it all, party participants dedicated themselves to “The Power to Make A Difference for All Children On Mission On Purpose.”
Stone Mountain Associates Celebrating Associate Jewels Linking the Generations: Stone Mountain Chapter Associate Jewels strengthen the chapter through sharing their institutional knowledge and wisdom as mothers. The chapter’s youngest grade group, Little Legacies & Little Dynamites (LLLDs), recently celebrated theAssociate Jewels during a virtual activity with digital greeting cards to express appreciation for the Associates’ service in the chapter. The children introduced themselves and highlighted a special attribute. Then, the LLLDs learned about Associate Jewels’ careers and community involvement. Given everyone’s enjoyment, plans are underway for continued intergenerational engagement between the youngest members and those whose shoulders on which the chapter stands. Associate Jewels of the Stone Mountain Chapter gather regularly to reminisce, socialize, and for continued chapter support and community service. In December, the Associate Jewels celebrated the holiday season during a dinner at Cherokee Rose, a popular downtown Stone Mountain eatery, and provided Christmas gifts to Solomon’s Temple Homeless Shelter.
Tallahassee Associates
Tuskegee
Tuskegee Chapter Celebrates Its Founding President The Tuskegee Chapter was established in 1953 on the campus of Tuskegee Institute, now Tuskegee University. During the Spring of 1953, Mrs. Gwendolyn Persley Kenney invited a group of mothers to her home to plan the organization of the Jack and Jill Chapter. These plans culminated in the installation of the chapter at a luncheon meeting in Dorothy Hall on the campus of Tuskegee Institute. Fiftyfour mothers chartered the chapter, which was the first in the state of Alabama. Gwendolyn Persley Kenney, “crowned” Miss Fisk University in 1942, was the founding president. She was the daughter of famed Tuskegee Institute architect, Louis Persley. She married Dr. Howard Washington Kenney and, together, they raised four children. Dr. Howard Washington Kenney was the son of Dr. John A. Kenney, who founded a hospital on the campus of Tuskegee Institute and was a personal physician to Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver.
Tuskegee Associates Tuskegee Associates in Action Tuskegee Chapter is fortunate to have very active associates who serve as committee chairs, coordinate the oratorical contest, coordinate Christmas giving and help in so many other ways. They honor all associates and highlight those pictured from activities that have occurred during this programming year: Dawn Clay and Zoe Baker, Christmas adopt-a-family donation; Lawanda Gray, the county-wide Healthy Harvest Festival; and Christine Boyd, installation of the Jack & Jill Christmas tree in the town square for the Magical Mystical Christmas Fest.
West Georgia
West Georgia Chapter Fab Five Pictured from left to right is Danielle Crowder (recording secretary 2019), Alayna Levison-Farrow (lead teen sponsor 2019-present), Berneta Churchill (originator, president 2018-2020), LaConia J. Dean (vice president 2018-2019, president 2020-2022), Kimberli M. Brown (program director 2018present)
The West Georgia Chapter was established on October 14, 2018, becoming the 45th chapter chartered by Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and the first on Atlanta’s westside. An interest led by our originator, Berneta Churchill, was held in 2015 at Dog River Library in Douglasville and together five mothers who we affectionately call our “Fab Five” worked together to build what is now the West Georgia Chapter. Living up to the motto, “West Georgia Excellence. Village Love,” the chapter has earned several honors in four years including: Jack and Jill's most coveted distinction, Five Star Chapter Excellence; Superior Programming Handbook; the SER Blue Ribbon Bylaw award; and regional designation as The Best of the Best in Programming for its 2019 Carole Robertson Memorial Program.
North Suburban Atlanta North Suburban Atlanta Chapter Jills featured on the TODAY Show On MLK Day 2022, two North Suburban Atlanta Chapter Jills were featured on the TODAY Show. Mom Brittany Collins’s daughter Taylor and Mom Alexis Stewart’s daughter Marley shared their reflections on the impact of Dr. Maya Angelou’s representation on currency. Dr. Maya Angelou is the first African American woman to be featured on a US Quarter. These young ladies did a phenomenal job, NSAC is so very proud of them.
Tuscaloosa This Founders Day, the Tuscaloosa Chapter honored the memory of another Charter Mother, Yvonne German, who passed away in October. Mom Yvonne was an extraordinarily smart and accomplished mother member who built a legacy that we strive to continue.
Athens The Athens Chapter kicked off the new year with our #SeeItAchieveIt activity. Moms, Jacks , Jills and Dads each created vision boards to set personal goals for the 2022 year. All were tasked with identifying six goals they hoped to achieve by December 31, 2022. The aim was to have one goal for each of the category themes: Cultural, Education, Health, Civic/Legislative, Social/Recreational and Personal Choice. Prior to beginning the Vision Boards, Moms Cheryl and Laquetta introduced the concept of SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, TImebound) goals. At the end everyone shared their goals and vision for the coming year and discussed how to support each other. It was a fun, inspiring event that is sure to become an annual tradition.
Birmingham In honor of Founders' Day, Birmingham children and teens performed community service projects for various nonprofits.
The Eager Beavers and Satellites provided care packages addressing physical and mental needs of children at the Children’s Village. The Friskies donated Children’s Hospital Wishlist items to the Children’s of Alabama Foundation. The Preteens created Health and Hygiene packages for Maranthan Academy, supporting their health program for children. The Teens addressed the needs of homeless children by providing supplies to make hygiene kits for Be a Blessing Birmingham and Youth Towers. The Goal was to ‘Lift ALL CHILDREN Higher’ with purposeful philanthropic action.
Jacksonville
On MLK Day of Service, the chapter collected various toiletries and items to donate to local high school kids in need. The Chapter also partnered with the African American Wellness Project to conduct a Virtual Health Educational Session which included a panel of Jacksonville Chapter Health Care Providers to discuss lung health and the hazards of vaping,
albany chapter
The amazing families of the Albany, Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill, Inc. celebrated the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by hosting an event entitled “Get on the Bus: An MLK Day of Service and Sacrifice.” The event included donations of bus passes, warm socks, and toiletries to local bus travelers. Participation in the event spanned across all grade groups and also included this year’s beaux class.
The 2-year old to 5th graders participated by sorting the donations to make bag assembly a smooth process. The middle schoolers added chapter/beau logo stickers to the gift bags and wrote personal notes for each bag. The teens and beaux distributed the gift bags and bus passes at a local bus depot. The group really enjoyed their day of service and sacrifice and are looking forward to continuing these types of activities to uplift the community.
Birmingham chapter
The Birmingham Chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc.’s and the Service Committee organized a service-driven weekend for Jack and Jill families by partnering with Community Kitchens to prepare hot meals and provide full service to every guest that gathered for lunch. More than 130 volunteers participated. The Birmingham chapter collected over 350 pounds of food, a massive amount of paper goods, and pantry items during the MLK and Souper Bowl of Caring weekend. Mom Chastity Westry, Service Chair, did a fantastic job discussing the purpose of the organization and the Service Project during an interview with local networks. Mom Denise Gregory discussed the artifacts on display (Letter from a Birmingham Jail written by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) at Samford University.
East Suburban Atlanta Chapter (ESAC)
The East Suburban Atlanta Chapter (ESAC) hosted its annual MLK Day of Service Program. This virtual event included a video from the children in the chapter, a family fun game, and community service! For our service project we collected towels (paper and toiletry) for the Project Renewal Domestic Violence and Intervention Program.
pe Shelby Shar
To top off the day, senior teen Shelby Sharpe, danced in the opening number with the Covington Regional Ballet to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King! Wow, ESAC truly epitomized a day on and not off!
greater fort Lauderdale Chapter
In remembrance of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and his encouragement to be of service to others, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter participated in a Day of Service at Feeding South Florida on January 17, 2022. Led by Foundation Chair Enette Henderson, families donated hundreds of pounds of food. Through virtual donation option, the Chapter exceeded its goal of raising over $2000 for Feeding South Florida. The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter will continue to focus on the needs of others and carry Dr. King’s spirit throughout the year.
“Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve.” ~ MLK
Jacksonville chapter
The Jacksonville Chapter was busy in the month of January making educational and service moves. The Chapter honored the vision established for the organization by the national and local founding members as well as the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. The Chapter created a Live Wax Museum to display the remarkable events of the past that have shaped the illustrious chapter to what it is today. On this remarkable journey, key figures in the organization were highlighted. Members of the various age groups recited historical facts about Jack and Jill. Families viewed an exhibit representing essential elements and artifacts displayed to reflect the rich history of the chapter. The Chapter paid tribute to the Associates with a videoconference celebrating them for their valuable contributions to the Chapter.
knoxville chapter
“I Have a Dream”, the famous words of Dr. Martin Luther King, rang loudly this month in Knoxville, TN. The chapter had big plans to commemorate the memory of the late trailblazer. The chapter was able to host the MLK Day of Leadership Oratorical Competition and the Speak Up, Speak out contest. This was an awesome event for the chapter and community. Attendees heard from some amazing young speakers and gave the children an opportunity to ‘fine-tune’ their public speaking skills. The annual participation in the MLK parade was halted as the parade was cancelled due to snow. This did not keep participants away from the MLK program hosted by Overcoming Believers church where some chapter youth gave special tributes to remember Dr. King. This even landed Knoxville Chapter a spotlight on the local news. This small, but mighty chapter showed up in a big way!
lake spivey chapter
Lake Spivey GA is always happy to lead by serving others! In a two-part service opportunity, the Lake Spivey GA Chapter, took the opportunity to serve by packing 300 care packages to the veteran and homeless populations of Henry County and metropolitan Atlanta. In partnership with Henry County GA District IV Commissioner Vivian Thomas, collected and packed each care package with survival items which included non-perishable food items, toiletries and homemade scarves during the Dr. MLK weekend. The chapter completed the project with distribution of the care packages in three areas with a significant homeless population.
Miami chapter
The Majestic Miami Chapter came together on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Weekend to honor his legacy and give back to the community. First, the Chapter co-sponsored a special service, Sunday, January 16, at the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation in Miami, where several mothers and associates are members. The Guest Speaker was The Honorable Daryl E. Trawick, Circuit Court Judge, Criminal Division in Miami. Chapter President Julie Harris Nelson presented a donation from the Chapter to the church's Youth Ministry. The next day, mother members and children spent the MLK National Day of Service by cleaning and beautifying the grounds of a local middle school, along with gifting books donated by members to encourage and promote youth literacy.
Mississippi gulf Coast chapter
On January 17, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter celebrated its annual Martin Luther King Jr/National Day of Service Program. Families had an amazing time talking about what made Dr. King so special and why it is important to celebrate his life and legacy. The children all presented facts about Dr. King’s life; his triumphs, little known fun facts, as well as how he has inspired excellence among them.
North Suburban Atlanta Chapter
North Suburban Atlanta Chapter Jill Taylor Bonner, daughter of Jane Bonner participated in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Beloved Commemorative Service on Monday, January 17th. Taylor presented a monologue during the Youth Presentation: The World House. Taylor was exceptional in her role and did an amazing job. NSAC is so very proud of her!
Pensacola chapter
The Pensacola Chapter hosted a virtual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service activity. Participants wore a custom chapter shirt with the theme "I am Black History." The activity included a coloring activity for the younger grade groups, a Jeopardy Brain Bowl competition and signature gathering for letters sent to state legislature in support of the Voting Rights Act. Canned goods were also collected virtually to support two area food pantries.
south miami chapter
The South Miami Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated was one of the community sponsors of the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation’s 34th Annual Service commemorating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. President Lisa Franklin and Teen President Chanda Singh-Richardson were selected to participate in the community event. They both delivered powerful tributes on the topics “The Struggle for Freedom and Justice” and “A Dream Deferred: Where Do We Go From Here?”
suncoast chapter
The Suncoast Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. commemorated Dr. King’s National Day of Service and his vision of a “Beloved Community” by uplifting the St. Pete Youth Farm located at 1664 12th Street South, St. Petersburg, Florida by partaking in a community service opportunity for a workday on Saturday, January 15, 2022 from 10:00 am -12:00 p.m. More than 50 volunteers from the Suncoast chapter spent the day tending to the garden at the St. Pete Youth Farm, an organization founded in 2019 to provide access to nutritious food in south St. Petersburg and develop future leaders in the community. The chapter also made a gift of $1,000 and an additional $500 in gardening tools to help sustain the farm’s mission and efforts. By participating in acts of service, the Suncoast youth will grow to value the importance of giving back to the community in which they live. Additionally, members celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by walking in the St. Petersburg’s Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Big Parade on Monday, January 17, 2022 beginning at 1:00 a.m. For several years, the Suncoast Chapter of Jack and Jill, Inc. has provided opportunities for its children and families to learn about Dr. King and to honor his legacy through service to the community.
tuscaloosa chapter
Teens and families of the Tuscaloosa Chapter participated in the city’s annual MLK Unity March in honor of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mom Leslie Boyd and Chapter Teen President (CTP) Adia Lowther were featured on the local news sharing reflections on the day’s events. Mom Leslie highlighted the importance of continuing to demonstrate the values Dr. King espoused. CTP Adia reflected on the march as a reminder of Black history and progress and as a means of increasing awareness of the current movement for Black lives. Attendees also had the privilege of connecting with one of the Charter Mothers, Sue Thompson, who was present at the march.
tallahassee chapter Tallahassee Chapter's MLK Celebration January 16, 2022 the Juniors Group (middle school) of the Tallahassee Chapter hosted part 1 of its Chapter-wide Virtual MLK Day activities. The virtual event was an open activity for the Valdosta Moms on a Mission (VMOMS) Interest Group (of whom the the Tallahassee Chapter is the Proud Sponsor), and the Albany Chapter. The virtual event featured guest speaker, nonagenarian, Dr. William Anderson, a prominent leader of the Albany Civil Rights Movement and great grandfather of Tallahassee members Sydney and Clinton Blake. The audience was also treated to the oratorical skills of the World's Youngest Motivational Speaker (7), Master Caleb Stewart. January 22, 2022, Part 2 of the Chapter's MLK National Day of Service commenced. The Chapter partnered with the Tallahassee MLK Dare to Dream Arbor Day project. Youth, Moms, and Dads alike were able to get out and plant trees in the community in UNITY. Long live Dr. King's Dream and #LongLiveJackandJill! Jack and Jill of America, Inc. - Sweet Southeastern Region #JJ #JJOA #JJNationalDayofService
Williamson County Area Chapter
The Williamson County Area Chapter’s MLK Service Event was held on Saturday, January 15, 2022, to support the One Generation Away Mobile Food Pantry. During this event, volunteers completed several tasks such as sorting, packaging and distributing food to families. In addition to providing food items, each family of the chapter also created individual note cards of encouragement, which were also distributed to those who received food donations. One Generation Away distributes healthy foods to families throughout Middle Tennessee that currently do not have access to food sources due to economic and physical barriers. The Williamson County Area Chapter not only volunteered during the food distribution event, but also successfully held a food drive within the chapter resulting in 253 pounds of food being collected and donated to the food pantry.