Celebrating 20 Years of Community and Legacy: A Special Edition of The Spivey Sentinel
This edition is truly about sharing and embracing the perspectives of our current president, Dr. Sandea Harris Under her leadership, the chapter continues to flourish, and her dedication to our mission is truly inspiring We are celebrating being a Five Star chapter for the third consecutive year, and the contributions the chapter has made and continues to make to the Jack and Jill of America Foundation We are also celebrating the outstanding programming that enriches the lives of every Jack and Jill within the chapter, reflecting our 20 years of legacy and service under all past presidents and now, Dr Sandea Harris
CP Sandea has earnestly stated this chapter the mothers, fathers, and Jacks and Jills are stronger together! "We live, work, and play together" is not merely a saying; it embodies the very essence of our purpose Throughout this edition, the concept of "STRONGER TOGETHER" is evident in every letter, word, comma, and period The only way this chapter has achieved every success over the past 20 years is because we are stronger together
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
Celebrating 20 Years of Community and Legacy: A Special Edition of The Spivey Sentinel
we mark the monumental milestone of 20 years for the Jac d Jill of America, Inc Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter, it is with mense pride and joy that we present this special edition of pivey Sentinel This issue is more than a collection of featur is a heartfelt tribute to the journey, achievements, and wavering spirit of our chapter In this edition, we delve into the rich history and vibrant present of our chapter through a series of inspiring features We are honored to include an exclusive interview with our founder, Dr Adrienne Johnson, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for what Lake Spivey has become Her insights and reflections offer a profound look into the origins and growth of our chapter
We are equally thrilled to share the perspectives of our current president, Dr Sandea Harris Under her leadership, the chapter continues to flourish, and her dedication to our mission is truly inspiring The wisdom and experience of all past presidents also grace the pages of this edition. A particular focus of this edition is the Father’s Auxiliary, whose support and involvement are crucial to our chapter’s success Their dedication and contributions are a vital part of our story, and we are delighted to include a feature acknowledging their important role
This edition of The Spivey Sentinel, though just two months young, stands out as a favorite for us The opportunity to interview Dr Adrienne Johnson was a profoundly moving experience, and working alongside current chapter mothers, associate jewels, and even our fathers has been truly awe-inspiring. Each interaction, each story, has reinforced the incredible sense of community defining Lake Spivey Georgia
As you read through this special edition, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the significance of our journey. Life often sweeps us into the demands of daily routines families, work, and other responsibilities but this edition is a chance to pause and cherish the rich tapestry of our history and the bright future that lies ahead.
Lastly, we extend a heartfelt thanks to our current president, Dr Sandea Harris, for her steadfast support of The Spivey Sentinel Her encouragement and enthusiasm have been invaluable A special thank you also goes to past presidents Dr Jamnique Kengwa, Deidra Collins, Chaundra Lewis, and Dr Tonya Smalls for their historical guidance and direction, as well as to Teen Editor Chandler Lewis for her lovely features in all of the previous editions but especially this edition. We extend a heartfelt thanks to the current chapter historian, Dr. MeJa Day, for her unwavering dedication to the Spivey Sentinel and her continued support, as well as to our past chapter historian, Dr. Amanda Phillips, whose wealth of knowledge and remarkable memory for dates have greatly enriched this edition
Here is to celebrating 20 years of Lake Spivey a testament to our collective achievements, enduring spirit, and the promising future we continue to build together May this edition serve as a cherished keepsake and a reminder of all that we have accomplished and all that we aspire to be
In Service,
JuwanaRiggins-Simon
Chapter Editor &
The Spivey Sentinel Editor
Jennice Gist
Protocol Chair & The Spivey Sentinel Co-Editor
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024
Past President/Associate Jewel
Cara Johnson
As the second President of Jack and Jill of America Incorporated, Lake Spivey Georgia, my leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the chapter’s journey by fostering a spirit of community and collaboration amongst the members As President, innovative programming and outreach initiatives were created to engaged both youth and adults, by promoting financial education, personal development, and community service
The chapter organized successful events that not only raised funds for local charities but also strengthened the bond between members by encouraging participation and enthusiasm Their commitment to inclusivity and empowerment inspired others to take active roles, ensuring that the chapter’s legacy of service and leadership would continue to thrive long after my Presidency Long live Jack and Jill
Past President
Dr. Jamnique Kengwa
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
Past President/Associate Jewel Felicia Howard
First, oh my goodness! Second, oh my goodness! Third, oh my goodness! Where does the time go? It seems like only yesterday my group of five ladies became the first group of ladies installed after the chapter was chartered We were referred to as “little lake spivey” (all lower case) then but look at us now
I served as the third chapter president with pleasure. Our chapter grew and at the time we had the largest number of seniors graduating out on my last year I loved seeing the children begging to be together at picnics, fundraisers, community service projects and cultural outings
There are so many things I enjoyed and loved about Jack and Jill A memorable time as president of “The Lake Spivey GA” chapter, would be the fun Christmas parties Good Lord, we always had a blast and even got two new babies as a result of that one party (or the after party we were not invited to wink, wink)
I would not trade the experience, friendships, and second moms and dads my children and I gained as a result of Jack and Jill It was worth the work!
Reflecting on my time as president of the Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, I am filled with pride for the work we accomplished together Serving in this role allowed me to witness firsthand the dedication of our members to improving the lives of our families and strengthening our community We embraced our mission with enthusiasm, fostering growth and unity through our diverse programs From supporting educational initiatives and celebrating our cultural heritage to engaging in civic activities and promoting health and wellness, every effort was a testament to our commitment
It was incredibly rewarding to see the tangible impact of our work and the positive changes within our community I am proud of the legacy we created and grateful for the opportunity to have served such remarkable families. The experience reaffirmed my belief in the power of collective action and community service
Congratulations Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America
Long Live Jack and Jill
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024
Immediate Past President Judge Chaundra Lewis
It has been an absolute honor to have twice served as President of the Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc During my nineteen-year membership in our beloved organization, I have witnessed the chapter’s positive impact on the Henry and Clayton County communities The phenomenal mothers, fathers, teens, children and Associate Jewels have touched the lives of our senior citizens, our unhoused, our babies, and everyone in between
Personally, the chapter has been a blessing to my family, providing a village to all three of my girls, and teaching them invaluable lessons in service and leadership Lake Spivey has also been the source of some of my closest and most treasured friendships I applaud the foresight of Founder Adrienne Booth Johnson, and remain grateful for every charter member that made our chapter a reality
Happy 20th Anniversary Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter!
Long live Jack and Jill!
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
Past President/Associate Jewel Jori Smith-Mann
As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we have undertaken together This milestone represents not only the growth of our chapter but also the enduring bonds we have formed as a community dedicated to nurturing and empowering our children I fondly remember the countless events, community service projects, and leadership development workshops that have shaped our children and members into the individuals they aretoday
The legacy of our past presidents and members continues to inspire current and future generations, reminding us of the importance of service, sisterhood, and education I am immensely proud of the achievements we have accomplished, from our impactful outreach initiatives to the lifelong friendships forged along the way for the children and mothers As we look forward to the next chapter, I encourage our members to embrace the values that have guided us andtocontinuemakingapositivedifferenceinthelivesofourchildren andthebroadercommunity
Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts on this significant occasion I look forward to celebrating this remarkable milestone with allofyou
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024
Past President/Lead Teen Advisor
Deidrea Collins
Reflecting back on my term of service as President of the Lake Spivey GA Chapter 2016-2018, I recall a sense of excitement and a desire to create something new with a lasting impact in the community The chapter’s theme was to cultivate a culture of REAL commitment by being respectful, encouraging, authentic,andlovingleaders.
The region was leading the charge to ignite, inspire, and impact change for all children, while the national leadership was empowering all of us to make a difference. We led with great programming such as meeting with law enforcement to have a real talk about police and community relations and hosting an outstanding Children’s Cluster by bringing the lights, camera, actionproductiontoouryouth
We served the community in a plethora of ways from supporting CHOA’s sickle cell division, to providing household furnishings for a home renovation, and engaging with the residents of Arrowhead Nursing and Rehabilitation Center We grewasachapterbyincreasingourmembershipandexpanding our vision It was truly my pleasure to serve our beautiful chapter moms and their families where we work, play, and live together
Past President/Foundation Chair
Dr. Tonya Smalls
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
Past President/Associate Jewel
Yvette Christian
The 20th Anniversary of the Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is a Platinum Year! Platinum is a noble metal that is the least reactive, least corrosive, and one of the strongest metals This is truly representative of the legacy that Lake Spivey seeks to maintain for the future of our children and our communities’ children We are noble women who are proactive, strong, and striving to be humble yet honorable As I reflect on my tenure I remember the love, support, and sense of community that enveloped my family and the women that supported my vision as a president, when we gained our first 5-Star recognition and led the work of the first Citywide Founders’ Day, among many other accomplishments Most of all, even holding multiple offices and chairing committees, I remember never having to do it alone, always having other passionate mothers to share in my journey Long Live Jack and Jill
Congratulations and Happy 20th Anniversary to the Lake Spivey GA Chapter of Jack and Jill ofAmerica,Inc ItwastrulyanhonortoserveastheLakeSpiveyGAChapter’s9thPresident Since my term started during the pandemic, it was imperative that the Chapter maintained a focus on working diligently, collectively, and strategically to ensure our local programming remained stellar and our service to the community remained impactful I sincerely appreciate the hard work and commitment of everyone that supported my “Thriving Together” vision andinitiatives
The Chapter had many accomplishments, including the following: 1) established our very first Golf Tournament , “Pink Skirts and Blue Polos” 2) served as first time co-host for the Southeastern Regional Teen Leadership Conference in 2021; 3) expanded our impact and support of organizations focused on youth initiatives such as Make-A-Wish GA and The Boys and Girls Club 4) established the Lake Spivey GA Chapter’s “Big Back Yard Project” at the Shaquille O’Neal Boys and Girls Club in Henry County and 5) received 5 Star Chapter of Excellencerecognitionforthe2020-2022biennium!
IamsogratefulforeveryChapterMother,AssociateJewel,Father’sAuxiliarymember, youth/teen/legacy child, Chapter/Regional/National Jack and Jill Officer, family member/friend, and community partner/sponsor that has contributed to the success and impactoftheLakeSpiveyGAChapteroverthepast20years!!!!
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
An Interview with Founder, Rev Dr Adrienne Johnson: The Vision of Legacy, Greatness & Service
For the children is often a phrase we hear and see within many facets of Jack and Jill of America, Inc I felt I understood that phrase, but during my interview and meeting with Rev Dr Adrienne Johnson, I quickly realized Dr Johnson embodied the term FOR THE CHILDREN I heard the story of the beginnings of Lake Spivey Georgia during my first Founder’s Day as a Chapter Mother Dr Adrienne Johnson told the story of being a member of Jack and Jill of America in Fayetteville, North Carolina She moved to the Clayton/Henry counties area, and initially she was told she would have to join a chapter in Macon Being the innovative-pioneer she was and continues to be, she stated, “I wanted to join a chapter in which the children would go to the same school as my children.” This is where I felt the story truly began as I knew Lake Spivey had a rich and humble history of changing the lives of many children within the Lake Spivey area But as I listened intently to Dr Johnson, her passion and vision became much more intertwined as a staggering account of legacy and antecedents
Dr Johnson and husband Joe remember 2004 very well Joe Johnson described meeting in churches during the initial stages of the chapter’s inception Both of them told me there was a lot of interest within the community for the chapter This was evident in the fact that what nationals told Dr Johnson would take three years, only took her one year Her sister, who was instrumental in starting a chapter in Pennsylvania, offered great assistance to Dr Johnson
I had a heartfelt conversation with Past President Jamnique, who emphasized the significance of the time and moments surrounding our chapter’s founding. She shared that Dr. Johnson and her husband had a vision that we are fortunate to experience today During this interview, I asked Dr Johnson if she realized the profound impact her vision has had on countless families and children in Clayton and Henry Counties; it was at this moment she began to get emotional She stated she did not understand how her vision resonated into incalculable terms today But the educator in me wanted to break down the data as best as I could I explained this year we will have 10 seniors to graduate and last year we had 8 seniors to graduate If the chapter had an estimate of between 8-10 seniors every year since 2004 that would be 160-200 seniors 160-200 black seniors preparing for the world Again, the interview became emotional The following words really struck me when Dr Johnson stated, “Our children are the talented ten, the children of Lake Spivey are who DuBois was speaking of in his book ” The greatness and power in her 2004 vision has stood the time of a recession, numerous black unarmed persons killed by police, COVID, four presidents and numerous other horrific events in this country Her vision has been one in which we saw the first black president in this country, the first black female Supreme Court Justice, and now a black female running for president-although not the first, the moment is nonetheless monumental
Dr Johnson was very easy to talk to and she often organically led the conversation She asked me about my Jack Kris and she told me all about her Legacy Jayla She described wanting to create an atmosphere in which children would persevere She wanted the moms to bond and develop great friendships-it was at this moment she told me she often keeps up with the chapter through social media She started laughing at the Group 4 social media “Gimme Your Money Post ” This was the sort of thing not seen in 2004 but the concept of friendship, happiness and togetherness has remained the same
I asked her what she wanted me to convey to the chapter through this feature Through tears, she said she wanted Lake Spivey to become more global Again, I can see the admiration she has for what we are doing I got the feeling she knows Clayton and Henry Counties recognize the chapter’s stellar work, but she wants the rest of the world to see the seed she has planted. Apparently, on one of her trips to Africa, she brought someone from the Zulu tribe back to do a programming activity with the Jacks and Jills Being global is a desire she has for Lake Spivey Georgia She said, “I wanted to plant a seed of greatness I knew if we planted a seed in our children they would be great!”
CELEBRATING YEARS 20
October 2024
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
An Interview with Founder, Rev Dr Adrienne Johnson: The Vision of Legacy, Greatness & Service (cont'd)
It was clear Dr Johnson had a heart for not just her children but all children within the chapter Even at 73, her servant heart was evident the more we talked. She explained to me that she was not going to be available to come to the anniversary celebration She is currently on her way to Ghana to assist in the chartering of an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. chapter, amongst many other ventures. I thought to myself, how prodigious of a person to have a trail of greatness and preeminence not just in America, but internationally as well
I gained a greater understanding of what Jack and Jill meant to Dr Johnson, but I wanted to dive deeper into her Lake Spivey memories She shared with me how the chartering members came up with many different names for the chapter, but Lake Spivey seemed so fitting because of the location We were ahead of schedule, so I asked if she wanted to watch the 2023-2024 program yearbook created by Past Historian Amanda I pulled up the chapter’s Instagram and we looked at the yearbook together Dr Johnson saw various chapter videos and asked about the context of those events, we looked at a few more together She looked up and said, “has it really been 20 years!” As I smiled and replied yes, I could see the sense of fulfillment and jubilation she has for the chapter in her eyes Sort of like when a mother looks at her child walking across the stage at graduation or walking down the aisle on their wedding day. The pride, love, and joy she has for Lake Spivey Georgia was evident in her joy and reactions to the commemoration in the videos She looked at the Jacks, Jills, Moms, and Dads with more than a sense of accomplishment, but of love and admiration
Chartering Mothers
Cynthia Andrews
Teresa Ayala
Margo Berry
Terrace Bowles
Loretta Bush
Nicola Chin
Loretta Clark
Marcia Edwards
Juanita Gobourne
Melody Hodge
Adrienne Johnson
Cara Johnson
Karen Lewis
Tujuania Richardson
Vanessa Richardson
Brenda Stinson
Janet Swearing
Andriette Turner
Felicia Warner
Elaine Youngblood
CELEBRATING YEARS 20
October 2024
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter Associates
By Associate Jewel President
Airraca Hughley-Bell
The Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter Associates Group was chartered on December 13, 2015, with the following six members: Teresa Ayala, Teresa Bonner, Sharon Clark, Felicia Howard, Adrienne Johnson, and Antoinette Tarvins, under the presidency of Jori Smith-Mann National Vice-President Jolie Cooper-Nelson, Southeastern Regional Director Gina Williams-Jackson, and Southeastern Regional Treasurer Tracy Moss were all in attendance to make this event an even more momentous occasion
Mothers who have tenured out of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated can continue to give back to the organization as an Associate Associates and Associate Groups strengthen the organization by addressing the unique needs of Jack and Jill by embracing the institutional knowledge and wisdom of the tenured members In essence, the Associates Group is an extension or branch of the local chapters and add value by supporting the programs of their respective local chapter as well as the Jack and Jill of America Foundation
In addition, the Associates Groups support their own projects and programs Giving back to the community is a large part of what they do In partnership with local organizations, they provide meals and clothes to various shelters; participate in 5K walks to support different causes; collect books and other needed resources for local schools; and even host their own signature events to raise money for the Jack and Jill of America Foundation
To date, the Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter Associates Group has 37 members We continue to provide encouragement, wisdom, knowledge, and support to the Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated We also actively partner with local organizations such as the Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity, House of Dawn, and local schools to name a few. On a national level, we support the Mother’s Away from Home Program (MAFH), a program designed to provide alumni Jack and Jill members a sense of home while away at college
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024 Jack & Jill of America, Inc Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
This year, one of my major projects as the chapter historian has been updating our chapter website I have worked on expanding and enhancing the history section to better reflect our chapter’s journey and milestones If you have not had the chance to explore the updated chapter history on our website, I encourage you to do so It’s a wonderful way to see howfarwehavecomeandtocelebratethecontributionsofallourmembersovertheyears
Southeastern Region Teen Conference 2025 - June 18-22, 2025 - Signia Orlando Bonnet Creek - Orlando, Florida
Southeastern Region Mothers' Conference 2025 - July 17-20, 2025 - JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort and Spa - Miami, Florida
Upcoming Group Activities
Group 1: October 6th A Day at the Farm at Southern Belle Farm
Group 2: October 27th Creativity Cafe
Group 3: October 19th The Lion King Performance
Group 4: October 20th Sunday Funday Cultural Experience
Group 5: October 20th Teen Virtual Meeting
October 20th at 4:00 Virtual Community Service
10/5/2024 from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM The Pigalle in Atlanta 20th Anniversary Celebration ***Susan G Komen Walk on 10/26/2024 at 7:45AM at Lenox Square Mall (details coming soon)
***Make A Wish Ga: Mya's Room MakeOver 10/26/2024 (details below)
"I wish that every day was Saturday and every month was October " Charmaine J Forde Chapter Moms October Birthdays
Mom Robyn Singleton~~~~October 24th
Did you read the newsletter? Which chapter did Dr. Johnson relocate from? Text Editor Juwana with the answer 404-274-5978 for a chance to win a prize.
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
Teen Editor Chandler Lewis
Feature of Dad Kevin Lewis
We became a part of the Jack and Jill of American, Inc., Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter in 2005. From the moment we joined, we gained a new family. Frequently, you hear of the phrase, "It takes a village to raise a child." The Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter is our "Village."
Many of the parents in the chapter have become some of our best friends, and I view their children as an extension of our own family. If we are stretched in different places because of our busy schedules, there are always other parents to fill in the gap and vice versa. While I thoroughly enjoy the service and activities year round, I particularly love graduation season each year. I always feel as if my own children are graduating and going on to do great things. To sum it up, I TRUST my Lake Spivey family with my family and feel we have such a special chapter within the Jack and Jill organization.
Dad Kevin J. Lewis District V Henry County Board of Commissioners
Words from Legacy Lauren Wilson
Jack and Jill of America, Inc , Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter has always held a special place in my heart It represents not only a community, but also a space of growth and empowerment. As a former jill and now a legacy of this chapter, I’ve had the opportunity to explore my identity, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships.
Through Jack and Jill, I’ve come to understand the true value of service, which has been woven into every meeting, event, and program Beyond that, the Lake Spivey Chapter has provided me with a foundation of love, support, and mutual respect that I will carry with me forever As a legacy, I know I’m part of something much larger than myself a network of excellence that continues to shape who I am and who I will become Today, I am proud to carry on a legacy of pride, purpose, and perseverance
Legacy Lauren Wilson
CELEBRATING YEARS
October 2024
Jack & Jill of America, Inc
Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter
Sister 2 Sister Snapshot
Mom Rashida
1 ) What does being in Jack and Jill Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter mean to you?
Being part of the Lake Spivey Georgia chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc , means being connected to a legacy of strong, inspiring women who are dedicated to nurturing and developing the next generation of leaders It’s about community, sisterhood, and empowering our children to thrive
2.) As a new mom, what does the 20th Anniversary mean to you?
As a new mom in the chapter, the 20th Anniversary is especially meaningful because it marks a milestone in a journey that I’m truly honored to be a part of It’s a time to celebrate the foundation laid by those who came before us, while also looking forward to contributing to the continued success and impact of this incredible organization
3.) Where do you see the chapter in the future?
I see our chapter continuing to thrive and expanding its influence as a thought leader in our community We will build on our legacy of service, leadership, and education, setting the standard for community engagement and development As we grow, we will create innovative programs that empower our children and uplift the entire community, ensuring a lasting positive impact and being a guiding force in shaping our community
4.) What has been your fondest moment of being in the chapter so far?
My fondest moment has been my initiation into the chapter It was just beautiful, and the prayer deeply resonated with me Celebrating and watching the tenuring mothers conclude their chapter roles was very emotional, adding to the significance of the experience The warmth, support, and sense of belonging I felt from the members made it a profoundly emotional and memorable experience, marking the start of a meaningful journey with my Jack and Jill family
Mom Tangi
1.) What does being in Jack and Jill Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter mean to you?
Being part of Jack and Jill Lake Spivey means so much to me as a mother It’s an opportunity to nurture my child's growth and development in a supportive, enriching environment that fosters leadership, service, and cultural awareness The Lake Spivey Jack and Jill chapter has given my daughter access to meaningful experiences that have and will continue to shape her understanding of community, history, and her own potential The friendships and bonds I’ve built in Jack and Jill have become an integral part of my life
2 ) As a seasoned mom in the chapter, what does the 20th Anniversary mean to you?
Twenty years of legacy in a mom-centered organization like Jack and Jill represents decades of commitment to nurturing our children, building sisterhood, and serving our community It's about creating lasting memories and opportunities for our children to grow into strong, confident leaders Over these years, we’ve formed unbreakable bonds with fellow mothers, supporting one another through the shared mission of uplifting our families and fostering cultural awareness
3.) Where do you see the chapter in the future? Serving the community and moms even bigger and better!
4 ) What has been your fondest moment of being in the chapter so far?
One of my fondest memories with the Lake Spivey Jack and Jill chapter was serving as chair of Black Family Day right after the pandemic After such a long time apart, seeing all the moms, kids, and families come together to share love, laughter, and make new memories was incredibly heartwarming The joy of reconnecting in person and feeling the sense of fellowship again brought tears to my eyes It was a day filled with love, reconnection, and an overwhelming sense of community
CELEBRATING YEARS
Chapter Editor Juwana Riggins-Simon Teen Editor Chandler Lewis
