TLC 2024 Time Capsule

SOUTH SUBURBAN CHICAGO CHAPTER 2023-2024 TEEN EXECUTIVE BOARD

Teen President Jared Rouse

Teen Vice President Ella Kazembe

Teen Recording Secretary Almeda Wallace

Teen Corresponding Secretary Melody Graham

Teen Treasurer Gregory Mitchell

Teen JournalistHistorian Jackson Alsberry

Teen Foundation Chair Emma Leak

Teen Parliamentarian Morgan Kimmons

Teen Sergeant-at-Arms Ronnie Gordon

Teen Community Service Chair Braelyn Hall

Teen Public Relations Chair Cheyenne Smith

Teen Leadership Conference Chair Khyla Wilson-Hill

Teen Legislative Chair Kaylyn Wilson-Hill

Regional Teen President Carlos Dillard, Jr.

2023-2024 TEEN ADVISORS Lead Teen Advisor, Salwa Rahim-Dillard Co-Teen Advisor, Cassaundra Rouse Teen Advisor, Linah Alsberry

JUNE

{Leadership Development, Legislative, Social, Community Service} From June 15-18, 2023, we attended the Mid-Western Region Teen Leadership Conference (TLC). The 69th Annual TLC was held at The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH under the conference theme, “Reunion: Celebrating Our Connection.” With 28 of our Teens attending, we proudly participated in the Step Off competition, Skit competition, Apparel competition, Art Showcase, Blanket competition (2nd place winner), and Time Capsule competition (1st place winner), where we were scored on our ability to conceptualize the conference theme. We also placed 2nd for the Community Impact Award, 2nd for Foundation Giving, and 3rd for Foundation Giving Per Capita.

Our Black brilliance is Black excellence

TLC is always a fun experience but what it made it special for me this year was being a delegate. Although some of the votes can last long, sitting at the front and representing your chapter in front of the region is an amazing experience. ~ TEEN PRESIDENT JARED ROUSE

JUNE

Our Black brilliance is competitive

JUNE

During TLC we also demonstrated individual leadership abilities. RTFC Carlos Dillard, Jr. ran for Regional Teen President and was successful in his election.

This campaign and election made RTP Carlos feel confident and motivated to continue making a difference in the world. He was able to show his leadership and public speaking skills. After the election he was ecstatic and blessed that his Mid-Western peers voted for him to be their next teen leader. Additionally, Kaylyn Wilson-Hill completed her duties as a member of the Regional Teen Nominating Committee. She represented our chapter well and we were so proud of her!

Our Black brilliance is inclusive

Jack and Jill has been so instrumental in my leadership skills. Running for this role and winning has truly changed my life. It’s taught me the power of communication and given me opportunities I’ve only dreamed of. This was the highlight of my senior year. I can’t wait to take these skills with me to Delaware State!

~ REGIONAL TEEN PRESIDENT CARLOS DILLARD, JR.

JULY

{Leadership Development, Social, Recreational} After resting from TLC, we got together for a Teen Workday and Pool Party activity that combined social fun, fellowship, exercise, teamwork, collaboration, and brainstorming for our 2023-2024 program year. We meticulously thought about our previous activities and provided insightful feedback to our Teen Advisors. We shared suggestions for powerful programs that we felt would be impactful to us, the chapter, and the community. We learned about our activity budgets and how that affects our programming decisions. All attendees participated eagerly in the pool games and activities, filling the day with joy, laughter, and a strong sense of camaraderie.

Our Black brilliance is achieving a vision “I loved how we were able to collaborate and think of new activities for the new program year!

We were also able to have fun with one another in the pool” ~ TEEN CORRESPONDING SECRETARY MELODY GRAHAM

SEPTEMBER

{Cultural, Leadership Development, Social, Recreational} September 24, 2023, we participated in Jack and Jill Day: A Pink and Blue Family Polo Affair, which was a two-part event with a pre-event zoom session entitled “Conversation with Kareem Rosser.” Mr. Rosser is a championship African American Polo player and author from Philadelphia. He discussed his life as a polo player, growing up with limited resources, the rules of polo, his new book, and the significance of exposing the sport to more children of color. The main event was attending the polo match at Oak Brook Polo Club where families enjoyed social time by playing games, watching the polo match, and enjoying a divot stomp on the field. The activity for Group 6 teens was a photo scavenger hunt to collect and highlight memories of their day and speaking during the Carole Robertson tribute ceremony.

Even though polo has been dominated by white players and viewed as a white sport, black people can still excel in anything they try. The rise of black polo players is not just a symbolic victory, but also a reflection of the changing demographics and social dynamics in the sport.

Our Black brilliance is enriching

~ TEEN AUSTIN LEVY

SEPTEMBER Our Black brilliance is leading while having fun Executive Board training and retreat

Executive Board Meeting, Parliamentary Training, and Retreat At the September Executive Board Meeting, the Executive Board received Parliamentary training from Associate Mom and Attorney Eileen Letts.

Afterwards the Executive Board had a retreat at Accelerate Speedway to enjoy bonding time while go kart racing!

“This was a great bonding experience, being new to the teen group and the new executive board I had a great time.

~ TEEN CHEYENNE SMITH

SEPTEMBER

On The Hill Legislative Summit From September 22-25, 2023, Regional Teen President Carlos Dillard, Jr., Teen Legislative Chair Kaylyn Wilson-Hill, and Teen Leadership Conference Chair, Khyla Wilson-Hill attended the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. On the Hill Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C. This event brought more than 600 African American teen advocates from 33 states to the nation’s capital to learn about the legislative process, advocate for significant issues related to youth and the Black community and meet with their state legislators. Every teen was ecstatic when we were surprised by Vice President Kamala Harris!

Our Black brilliance is advocating This trip was life changing. I had the opportunity to see VP Kamala Harris, meet Ben Crump and I personally had a 1:1 meeting with a representative in Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson's office in the Longworth House Office Building. After this trip, I knew what was meant for me. I changed my major to political science. I want to stay in politics. I want to make a difference.I want to teach others the power of advocacy. All thanks to Jack and Jill. I am forever grateful!

~ REGIONAL TEEN PRESIDENT CARLOS DILLARD, JR.

OCTOBER

Illinois/ Tri-State Area Workday We had five teens attend the IL/Tri-State Area Workday Cluster at the end of October 2023. Regional Teen President Carlos Dillard, Jr gave greetings to over 600 attendees and hosted two teen parties with his Regional Teen Board over the weekend. We participated in a community service activity packing snack bags for the Boys & Girls Club of Elgin. Teen Gregory Mitchell participated in his first oratorical competition and placed 3rd, which qualified him to compete in the oratorical competition at TLC 2024.

Our Black brilliance is inspiring Being together to form opinions and arguments captivates our own understandings, continuing to develop into our own competitions, our own debates, our own activities, and our own speeches. Black Brilliance: The Original Change Agents is us and the amazing things that we do every day.

~ TEEN TREASURER GREGORY MITCHELL

OCTOBER

{STEAM, Social, Recreational} On October 21, 2023, we traveled to Six Flags Great America for Fright Fest, which was an awesome day of fun, excitement and bonding. During the bus ride we received information on the history of Halloween as well as African American roller coaster designers and the ways physics functions in the operation of roller coasters.

{Cultural, Social, Financial Literacy} At the end of November 2023 we went on a Chicago Broadway excursion to see “The Wiz.” We had a pre-show discussion that included the show’s themes and messages and enjoyed a dinner together afterwards. We were encouraged to think about the impact of the performing arts as an economic engine and investment opportunity.

Our Black brilliance is diverse

Going to see The Wiz was extremely engaging, especially with my fellow Jack & Jill Teens! Getting to experience a musical so important to the culture while getting to explore the different artistic elements involved in this show was a truly profound opportunity.

~ TEEN FOUNDATION CHAIR EMMA LEAK

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER Our Black brilliance is energizing L

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{Recreational, Social, Cultural, Community Service} On December 16, 2023, our teens attended the 2nd Annual Holiday Grand Slam of Giving hosted by the IL North and South COEs at XS Tennis Center in Chicago. The event was sponsored by the USTA and XS Tennis Center and featured tennis lessons, a Kwanzaa Family Lounge, snacks, special guest speakers, and two impactful community service projects. {Leadership Development, Social} At the end of the year we had a holiday Teen Kickback that was a memorable and motivating way to bring us together during the holiday season while helping us focus on our personal growth and aspirations for the upcoming year.

Our activities and games promoted team building, creativity, and goal-setting.

“I enjoyed this activity because I was still new to the teen group and got to know and meet more people.

~ TEEN ANTHONY HARRIS

JANUARY Our Black brilliance is serving others

{Community Service, Leadership Development, Legislative} On January 15, 2024, we joined our chapter-wide event “Bringing the Dream to Life- MLK Day of Service.” During this activity, we partnered with the Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, Thank God It's Natural, and the Village of Flossmoor to pack over 300 toiletry blessing bags to donate to the Boys and Girls Club of Ford Heights. We also engaged in a legislative panel that included guest speakers U.S. Congresswoman Dr. Robin Kelly, US Senator Mike Simmons, Justice Cynthia Y. Cobbs, Aris Singleton, CEO of Thank God It's Natural, Dr. Kristen N. Kenan, MD, MPH, Antuan Wilson, Founder of Arch Angel Services, and Tiffany Upshaw, MA, M.Ed., Dean of Students at Bloom Alternative High School.

The MLK event was educational and inspiring. We were able to talk about our future endeavors to make us feel more confident in our choices.

We also had the opportunity to create goodie bags of hair products to give to the homeless.

~ TEEN KHYLA WILSON-HILL

FEBRUARY Our Black brilliance is innovative

{Leadership Development, Financial Literacy, Social} On February 4, 2024, we engaged in a memorable and impactful experience “Shark Tank” leadership development and financial literacy activity, which taught us valuable skills that can benefit us in the future. It was led by investment banker Erin Lyke and teens broke into groups to develop innovative business plans and present them to a panel seeking funds for investment. Each group identified a problem statement, solution, target market, marketing strategy, and financials, and created presentation materials. This was an excellent way to nurture our entrepreneurial spirit and inspired us to think outside the box while also working on our public speaking skills. The winner received funding to create an LLC for their business.

This activity was very fun and engaging. We got to present our own business ideas in-front of sharks like the actual tv show. This activity gave us many ideas and creativity on building on ideas and creating our very own businesses. ~ TEEN JEMANI BONAPARTE

FEBRUARY The Double Good fundraiser was a great way to raise money, allow friends and family to support our chapter, and engage in friendly competition. And who doesn’t like great popcorn! ~ TEEN LYNNEA NGORIMA Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser From February 5-9, 2024 we participated in the MWR Double Good Popcorn fundraiser and set up Double Good Pop-Up stores to raise money for STEM and reading literacy resources for disadvantaged children. We sold over $50,000 worth of popcorn, which was the highest we have ever sold as a chapter! $25,000 of that will go towards scholarships and community service.

Our Black brilliance is philanthropic

MARCH

{Legislative, Community Service, Social, Recreational} On March 2, 2024, we partnered with the League of Women Voters of Homewood-Flossmoor and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women for our That’s How We Roll Skate to the Polls Teen Voter Registration Drive. Tinley Park Roller Rink provided music, skates, and energy for us and other community teens to enjoy while voicing and exercising our power to vote. As of Jan. 1, Illinois allows 16 year-olds to pre-register to vote in future elections.

When they are 18, they will be able to exercise their civic duty. Teens 16 and older who joined the event brought their driver’s license and other IDs to register to vote. Elected officials such as Monica Gordon, 5th District Cook County Commissioner, joined the party to show support.

This activity incorporated roller skating while allowing teenagers to register to vote. It also helped teens learn how important it is to vote and learn why their voice matters.

Our Black brilliance will not be silent

~ TEEN LEGISLATIVE CHAIR KAYLYN WILSON-HILL

MARCH

{Health, STEAM, Leadership Development, Financial Literacy} On March 9, 2024 at the Homewood Library, we had the opportunity to learn CPR and First Aid from a community instructor. CPR was taught using a group approach requiring us to effectively communicate with one another and listen to instructions from the team leader when assisting someone in distress. This activity also helped us keep safety in mind by appreciating risks. We also learned that being CPR trained can be the best chance to save the life of a grandparent, friend or even community members.

Our Black brilliance can save lives After completing CPR training, I gained a sense of confidence and readiness to respond to medical emergencies. The skills I acquired during the activity instilled in me the ability to effectively assist someone in need. ~ TEEN RANDALL DOWNING

APRIL Our Black brilliance is collaborative {Leadership Development, Legislative, Financial Literacy} On April 20, 2024, we participated in a panel discussion with local black female elected officials for Small Town Talks. Panelists included: Arlene M. “Sugar” Al-Amin, Rich Township Clerk, Sheila Chalmers-Currin, Mayor of Matteson, Nichole Patton, Cook County 15th Subcircuit Judge, Debbie Meyers-Martin, Illinois State Representative, Kari K. Steele, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, and Michelle Hoereth, District 233 Board of Education Member. We engaged in important discussions regarding current issues that affect our towns and asked the elected officials questions about their jobs and their journeys. Afterwards, JacPac dad Fredric Mitchell led an Earth Day discussion about the importance of sustainability and how composting and using a rain barrel can help our communities with conservation efforts. We then made mini rain barrels to take home and use for collecting water.

I learned about how to better serve my community by engaging with local elected officials. I also enjoyed learning how to be environmentally conscious about water and conservation. ~ TEEN NOAH HOERETH

MAY Our Black brilliance apsires for higher education {Cultural, Social, Recreational, Financial Literacy} On May 4, 2024, we participated in our chapter-wide Black Family Day JJSSCC HBCU Homecoming. Our day began with a mini college fair where we taught each other about HBCUs. We were responsible for creating an HBCU poster and providing important facts about the college/university. Then the teens attended a session on “Understanding the Financial Journey to College.” We learned the steps we need to take at each age level to be ready to save for college. We also played “HBCU bingo” and learned more about fun facts related to historical black colleges and universities. The event included a presentation from a local high school band, a flag football game, and a tailgating experience.

I had an enjoyable time at the HBCU themed Black Family Day as it allowed me to spend time with some of my peers that attended. I also enjoyed playing flag football and watching the performance of the band. The event was a great way for me to find out more about black colleges and what they do during the tailgate.

~TEEN JACKSON ALSBERRY

MAY Our Black brilliance gives back Boys and Girls Club of Ford Heights Technology Innovation Studio

In March of 2024 we began working with BGC corporate leadership to build the first Technology Innovation Studio (TIS) at the Ford Heights Club. We designed, painted, furnished, bought all the equipment, and paid for the electrical wiring of TIS. We invested more than $30,000 from Double Good sales and donations and invested 150+ hours planning and launching TIS. Our purchases included four desktops with gaming and dual monitors; three laptops; a 3D Printer with a year's worth of supplies; two controller headsets; two Xbox Elite wireless controllers; two Cricut Maker®3+ Machines; room décor and more! The TIS was revealed on May 19, 2024. We are committed to making a mighty impact on the kids at the Boys and Girls Club of Ford Heights!

I liked painting and beginning to create a technology room for the Boys and Girls Club because it gave us teens the opportunity to do a good cause for the community and also have fun.

-TEEN CHEYENNE SMITH

Greetings, Mighty Mid-Western Region!

Thank you for taking the time to explore our time capsule and the beautiful memories it holds. Each moment captured within reflects our journey of growth as leaders, our dedicated service to the community, and the meaningful connections we forged along the way. We are grateful for the opportunity to share these cherished experiences with you, and we hope they inspire continued commitment to leadership, community service, and family.

Warmest regards, Jack & Jill South Suburban Chicago Chapter Teens

TEEN ROSTER Jackson Alsberry Jemani Bonaparte Evan Bradford Stephen Brown Sydney Davis Savannah Davis Carlos Dillard, Jr. Randall Downing Michael Ellzey Julia Franklin

Monae Glenn Ronnie Gordon Melody Graham Braelyn Hall Mason Halliman Anthony Harris, Jr. David Hayes Noah Hoereth Liori Jordan Terrin Joubert

Ella Kazembe Morgan Kimmons Emma Leak Nathan Legardy Austin Levy Colin Lewis Morgann Lyttle Maecyn Lyttle Jaiden McCullough Jayvyn McKee

Gregory Mitchell Lynnea Ngorima Sydney Patton Myles Patton Jared Rouse Cheyenne Smith Almeda Wallace Khyla Wilson-Hill Kaylyn Wilson-Hill Myles Wright