JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED • FALL/WINTER 2021
EXECUCOM
JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED 1930 17TH Street, NW Washington, DC 20009 jackandjillinc.org
IN THIS ISSUE
NATIONAL OFFICER LETTERS 1 6 10 12 14 16 18
National President National Vice President National Treasurer National Program Director National Recording Secretary National Corresponding Secretary National Editor
FEATURES 20 Past President Reflections 22 Our Legacies 24 Jack and Jill Quilting Project 26 National and Regional Leadership List 28-30 Pictorials
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or 83 years, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. has committed its work and resources to improving the quality of life for children, particularly African-American children nationwide. Each year, children participate in chapter programming and activities that are guided under a national theme in adherence to the fulfillment of the organization’s goals. Individual chapters embrace a plan of action geared toward a united commitment to address and help alleviate the numerous societal issues, which have a dramatic impact on children.
MISSION Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nuturing African American leaders by strenghthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.
OBJECTIVES AND AIMS The objectives of this nonprofit organization are: • To create a medium of contact for children which will stimulate growth and development; and • To provide for children, constructive educational, cultural, civic, recreational, health and social programs. The aims of this organization are: • To aid mothers in learning more about their children by careful study; • To seek for all children the same advantages desired for our own; and • To support all national legislation aimed at bettering the conditions of all children.
National President
KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN
Mothers, W
elcome to the Fall/Winter edition of EXECUCOM, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated’s publication highlighting the activities and accomplishments of your 2020-2022 National Executive Board. This first EXECUCOM issue for the 2020-2022 Administration also serves as a commemorative edition that honors our 83rd Founders Day. In the past year, our nation has faced uncertain times — experiencing challenges similar to those that faced our founders in 1938. The COVID-19 pandemic, social unrest, racial injustice, economic hardships, and threats to our democracy have heavily impacted communities across America. Despite these challenges, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated stands as a beacon of hope. Our organization remains committed to developing future African-American leaders through our power to make a difference for ALL children, on mission and on purpose. As mothers, we unite together in Jack and Jill with the primary purpose of seeing our children succeed in every way. Since the start of our term, your 2020-2022 National Executive Board has committed to intentional leadership focused on the following key components of our Guiding Principles: • Serving A Higher Purpose • Keeping Children First • Building Harmonious Sisterly Relationships • Being Knowledgeable • Being Strategic • Being Accountable • Being Kind I am so very honored to serve with such a phenomenal group of leaders on our National Executive Board. We are all committed
Our 2020-2022 Administration logo makes clear our organizational priority.
to doing what is best for our beloved organization and have pledged to work tirelessly to achieve the following goals and objectives: • Provide Strategic Direction and Operational Excellence • Enhance Membership Satisfaction • Expand Educational and Cultural Opportunities • Create Harmonious Sisterly Relationships • Strengthen National Partnerships • Leverage the Power of Technology • Protect our Branding We are humbled that you have placed your trust in us to lead this organization. This journey has been so much more enjoyable and productive because of your support and commitment to living the mission of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. We are so appreciative of your participation, engagement, and many contributions. Personally, I would also like to extend sincerest thanks and appreciation to our Regional Officers, National Committee and Task Force Chairs, Chapter Presidents, Members, Strategic Partners, and Headquarters Team for their incredible support. Even during these difficult times, you have pivoted when needed and made the necessary adjustments to meet our organization’s needs. May God continue to bless our organization in every way! Long live Jack and Jill! Always For the Children,
Kornisha McGill Brown 27th National President
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COMMITTEE UPDATES FIVE STAR 2.2 COMMITTEE The National Executive Board remains committed to achieving operational excellence through training, mentoring, and acknowledging the best of the best. We are excited that so many chapters committed to participating in Five Star Chapter Excellence 2.1 last program year. Special thanks to the 2018-2020 Five Star Committee led by past South Central Regional Director, Lesa Rice-Jackson for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to supporting chapters through the Five Star submission process. Introduced in 2008 by our 21st National President Jacqueline Moore Bowles, the objective and focus of Five Star Chapter Excellence remain the same – chapter excellence in the areas of membership, programming, chapter operations, financial management and community service/philanthropy. We congratulate our 76 Chapters who achieved Five Star Chapter Excellence in 2020. Our #1 goal is to continue to provide guidance and Subject Matter Expert (SME) Module support throughout the process. We are happy to announce that Five Star Chapter Excellence 2.2 will continue during the 2020-2022 program years. Thank you to the committee that will be led by past Southeastern Regional Director Gail Ash Dotson. More information will be provided soon during a national webinar on March 4, 2021. JACK AND STRUCT U R E JILL MOTHL I T E R AC Y ERS TEENS SERVICE C I V I C FAT H E R S I N V O LV E M E N T CHILDREN LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY CHAPTERS MESSAGE PROSPERITY REGIONS MEMBERSHIP A S S O C I AT E S LEADERS E D U C AT I O N HEALTH COLV I S I O N LABORA T I V E COMMUNITY MISSION P A R - E N T - I N G POWER ENGAGES T R A - T E G I C OPERA- T I O N S MENT VOLSTRENGTH UNTEER L O N GEVITY SOC I A L PA R T N E R S INSIGHT FOUNDAT I O N PHILANFAMILIES LEGACY R E L T H R O P Y EVANCE VALUE EXTRAORTRANSFOR- D I N A R Y CONSTRUCMATIONAL T I V E RECREATIONAL PROGRAM- S O C I A L O R G A M I N G N I ZAT I O N
PRIORISUCCESS OBJECCIVIC INTIES IMPACT INTIVES PRIORITIES IMPACT VO LV E M E N T FORMATION EXECUTIVE INFORMATION EXECUTIVE L E G I S L AT I V E STEM MODULES ACTIVITY STEM MODULES ACTIVITY GOVADVOCACY MESGOVERNANCE RESPECT ACERNANCE RESPECT SAGE PROSPERITY COMPLISHED ACCOMPLISHED MEMBERSHIP ASSOW O R L D L Y W O R L D LY JACK AND CIATES ED- UCATION JACK AND JILL MOTHERS TEENS H E A L T H C O L L A B JILL MOTHFAT H E R S CHILDREN O R A T I V E COMMUERS TEENS CHAPTERS R E G I O N S NITY PARENTING FAT H E R S LEADERS VISION MISSION P O W E R STRATEGIC C H I L D REN ENGAGEMENT VOLUNTEER OPERAT I O N S CHAPTERS PARTNERS PHILANTHROPY STRENGTH LONGEVITY R E G I O NS TRANSFORSOCIAL INSIGHT FOUNDATION LEADERS MATIONAL FAMILIES LEGACY RELEVANCE VALUE VISION MISPROGRAMEXTRAORDINARY CONSTRUCTIVE SION ENGAGEMENT M I N G R E C R E AT I O N A L VOLUNTEER PARTNERS STRUCTURE SOCIAL ORGANIPHILANTHROPY TRANSLITERACY ZATION SUCCESS FORMATIONAL PROSERVICE OBJECT I V E S GRAM-
MING STRUCTURE LITERACY SERVICE CIVIC INVOLVEMENT LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY MESSAGE PROSPERITY MEMBERSHIP ASSOCIATES EDUCATION HEALTH COLLABORATIVE COMMUNITY PARENTING P O W E R STRATEGIC OPERATIONS STRENGTH L O N G E VITY SOCIAL INSIGHT
NATIONAL PROTOCOL COMMITTEE The National Protocol Committee has had four meetings to date and have worked on the following documents in preparation of Founders Day Celebrations. Recommendations and Decision Points: Founders Day: • All Founders Day communications will be consistently referred to as ‘Founders Day’ and not ‘Founder’s, Founders’ Day) • Founders Day will be referred to as a celebration and not a ceremony—therefore, attire is directed/decided by the chapter; • Founders Day Celebrations are open events • Rededication Ceremony: Rededication is a formal event and therefore closed to non-mother members; • Attire will always be uninterrupted white Celebrations/Ceremonies: • Chapters can decide to have both combined—but must adhere to the dress code for rededication • All celebrations and ceremonies shall be led by the highest-ranking officer in attendance • All other readers will be chapter officers as appointed • If inviting a national or regional officer to be part of your virtual ceremony, please note it will only be a speaking part; the chapter president or protocol chair will be responsible for all other materials and conducting the ceremony logistics They are presently reviewing and editing Virtual Ceremonies for Initiation and Installation of Officers for Mothers and Teens. The committee is also working on alignment across the Regions for National Executive Board Officers appearances at chapter events and making sure that all Regions are following the same protocols. They will have instructions for chapters to follow when inviting NEB Members to Virtual Events and Ceremonies. A national webinar will be held jointly with the National Membership Committee on February 18, 2021. Special thanks to the entire National Protocol Committee led by NPC Robin Williams of the Eastern Region.
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COMMITTEE UPDATES CONTINUED NATIONAL STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE The priorities of the 2020 – 2022 National Strategic Planning Committee are to Support the Implementation of the National Strategic Plan, Partner and Advise on National Strategic Planning Matters, Activate Strategic Planning at all Organizational Levels and HQ, and Foster a Focus on Innovation Bridges to the Future. Each NSPC Member has been aligned with our National Committee / Task Force Chairs and the NEB to provide counsel and thought partnership on their strategic needs. The Committee’s focus is on a national reorientation to our enhanced Strategic Planning tools, recruiting and training Chapter Strategic Planning Chairs, and creating a way to nationally capture bold, scalable ideas that fulfill our mission for future budget consideration. Thank you to Chair Edrienne Brandon of the Far West Region and all of the members of the National Strategic Planning Committee for their commitment and dedication. NATIONAL EMERGENCY RESPONDERS TASK FORCE The National Emergency Responders Task Force has met to outline their plans for the program year and have discussed possible directions for the committee to pursue. At this time, they have decided to begin with COVID-19 education response as well as future direction of emergency preparedness for any potential natural disaster, especially hurricanes. Other topics they plan to address include ideas concerning a national emergency fund for mothers in need, American Red Cross expanded utilization, and information on how mothers can teach their children while also managing work from home. Thank you to all of the members of this task force that is led by Chair Sophia Ford-Glanton of the MidWestern Region. More information will be provided to assist members on emergency preparedness soon. We appreciate the work of this committee.
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COMMITTEE UPDATES CONTINUED NATIONAL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS TASK FORCE Partnerships are an essential component of our strategy as we strive to keep the children as our top priority and ensure the long-term sustainability of Jack and Jill of America (JJOA) for many generations to come. Partnerships allow us to increase our capacity as we work toward building future leaders and as we “seek for all children the same advantages which we desire for our own.” Our National Strategic Partnerships Taskforce (NSPT) has been hard at work to ensure our current and new partnerships are strategic and beneficial to our children, mothers, and the community at-large. To-date the NSPT has: • Identified and defined three different types of JJOA partnerships: Corporate, Programming and Community Impact. • Partnered with the NEB to ensure cohesive communications among our partners and the NEB, NSPT, programming leadership as well as other committees such as the National Legislative Committee. • Partnered with myself, NPD Sherill and the rest of the NEB to refine current and/or finalize new MOUs. • Fulfilled sponsorship benefits, to ensure JJOA delivers what it promised our partners. • Helped to communicate the value some of our partnerships to our mother members through webinars: e.g. Morehouse, Inroads. Many thanks to NSPT Chair Jasmine Smith (Mid-Atlantic Region) and the entire Task Force for their dedication and the great work that has been done on behalf of JJOA. Their hard work and commitment are greatly appreciated. I am proud to share that our current partners are strong brands who support our mission and value our membership:
CORPORATE PARTNERS
COMMUNITY IMPACT PARTNERSHIPS
PROGRAMMING PARTNERS
A FEW OF OUR SUCCESSES THUS FAR
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KEY ACTIVITIES NATIONAL PRESIDENT KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
National Executive Board Planning Retreat National Executive Board Meetings National Executive Board Transition Meeting Jack and Jill of America Foundation Board Orientation and Monthly Meetings Southeastern Region Mothers’ Work Day South Central Region Area Work Day Mid-Atlantic Region Area Work Day Far West Region Area Work Day Central Region Area Work Day North Mississippi Chapter Virtual Chartering and Installation Ceremony Sun Valley Chapter Virtual Chartering and Installation Ceremony Forest City Chapter Virtual Chartering and Installation Ceremony Virtual Meetings with all Corporate Sponsors and Partners In Person HQ Meeting and Planning with Staff Weekly Virtual HQ Staff meetings Carole Robertson Wreath Laying Ceremony Sisters United For Reform Open Letter to VP-Elect Kamala Harris Voter Engagement Town Hall Meeting Guest Panelist Links Incorporated Legislative Summit Guest Panelist on Sybil Wilkes’ Show Guest Panelist Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Get Out The Vote Campaign with Stacey 4 / EXECUCOM Abrams
• • • • • •
• • •
•
Guest Panelist-The Sistah Covenant-hosted by Associate Pat Sams National Committee and Task Force Appointments and liaison to 5 committees Hiring of Interim Executive Director Hiring of Senior Accountant Issued COVID-19 Policy Special Virtual Sisterhood Presentation: Sisters United For Reform Guest panelists with NVP Claudia and National Membership Committee Special Virtual Presentations: Home For the Holidays with NPD Shirell and Programming Ad hoc Committee Special Virtual Presentation: Pink and Blue Inaugural Affair with NCS Sativa and National Legislative Committee Attended special virtual “COVID-19 and the Black Community” meeting with incoming Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy Attended special meeting for African-American women leaders by Congressman Cedric Richmond, newly appointed Senior Advisor to President Biden and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement
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National Vice President
CLAUDIA N. CURTIS
engaged in organizational policy discussions. Importantly, we are aligned in our commitment to our organization’s guiding principles and seek to lead by example. By operating with mutual respect and transparency, we can partner effectively to meet our organization’s needs.
Greetings Mothers,
W
hat an unusual time! Like the rest of the world around us, our organization has had to adjust, sometimes quite rapidly, to the changing conditions of our times. With an agility that belies our 83 years of existence, we have adapted and evolved to continue providing high quality programming for our children and service in our communities. How are we able not just to survive, but to thrive during these pandemic times? By innovating our programming, pooling our resources, tapping into hidden talents and leveraging the power of our collective membership, we are successfully navigating our way through the turbulence. But we cannot rest on our laurels! We want to provide the best possible experience for our mothers, ensuring a fertile environment where top-notch programming equips our children to be the great leaders of tomorrow. We can accomplish these things and more by enhancing our Jack and Jill membership experience. So, let’s
I also support our National Grievance Council. While we hope they will not be called to duty very often, these dedicated mothers are ready and willing to serve. We appreciate their service and their sacrifice as they perform a vital function for our organization, toiling in anonymity. Please join me in saluting the outgoing and incoming council members for their efforts. While time and space constraints will not allow me to detail all that has taken place in the past five months, I’ll share a few highlights – NATIONAL ASSOCIATES COMMITTEE Even though their children have graduated out of Jack and Jill, this team of Jack and Jill veterans have graciously agreed to share their time, talents and considerable wisdom with us – all while having fun. Unfortunately, the reality of our current time has limited their ability to offer the typical associate activities in their respective regions. They will not be deterred. Discussions on possible virtual activities are underway. In addition, our associate chairs have been quite busy welcoming our new associates and new chapters. Seven new associate groups have been chartered since this administration began. Under the leadership of Vickie Williams-Wiley (Southeastern Region), they will soon issue an updated Associates Guide, reinstitute our Mothers Away From Home Program, and if circumstances permit, will plan our next Associates Getaway. Importantly, this group of mothers are shining examples of how to work together as a team and support each other as sister mothers. Their camaraderie is a delight and a reminder that we can all look forward to associate land . . . some day.
These concepts encapsulate the various facets of our member experience, serving as key focal points for the teams for which I serve as liaison.
NATIONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING TASK FORCE Led by educators and experts in leadership training and development, this taskforce is poised to revolutionize our approach to preparing leaders in Jack and Jill. Under the leadership of Chair Tatia Granger (Mid-Atlantic Region) and Co-Chair Jami Ervin (Mid-Western Region), this powerful team is quickly moving from highly intellectual, bi-weekly discussions about the science and theory behind leadership development to practical application tailored to meet our members’ needs. They have identified key leadership competencies for leaders at the chapter level and are compiling resources to aid regions in developing new leadership academies and strengthening existing ones. This work is a precursor to a national leadership training program to be released next program year. Toolkits for chapter officers is next on their list. Stay tuned for updates on this initiative in the coming months.
I have the privilege of working with many incredible leaders across our organization. Through partnership with our Regional Directors, we have enhanced our organization’s communication protocols. Information cascades in a timely, comprehensive fashion and regional leaders are actively
NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Understanding that the care of our membership is a serious matter, our National Membership Committee, led by Chair Nicole Lawson Jenkins (Southeastern Region) wasted no time. In the past five months, this amazing group of leaders –
ELEVATE: • Engage and Experience • Leverage and Link • Effectively Communicate • Value and Respect • Align and Clarify • Train and Educate • Empower and Evolve
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• Revised the New Member Intake Guide and updated the VP Toolkit • Designed and/or lead four (4) webinars on membership matters - New Members’ Only - The Power of Working Together: Building on our Sisterhood - Membership Intake: The Jack and Jill Way - Mental and Emotional Wellness: Taking Care of ME • Reviewed and provided extensive feedback on membership-related issues in our governing documents • Streamlined communications between National Headquarters and chapter vice presidents This hard-working group of mothers meets regularly and communicates almost daily with each other and with the chapter vice presidents in their respective regions. We are fortunate to have such talented and dedicated leaders helping our chapters navigate the complex world of membership matters.
“Thank you for the opportunity to partner with you as we leverage our collective Power to Make a Difference for ALL Children, staying On Mission and On Purpose. Let’s continue to move forward together!”
NEW CHAPTERS We were blessed to welcome 5 new chapters last fall! After receiving approval at our 44th National Convention, the North Mississippi Chapter, Central Missouri Chapter, Magnificent Mile Chapter, Forest City Chapter and Sun Valley Chapter were installed in their respective regions (see pictorial highlights later in this edition). The wonders of technology allowed me to participate virtually in four of the five beautiful ceremonies, each a unique and memorable experience. I have enjoyed getting to know our new mothers and assist them as they embark on this new phase of their Jack and Jill journey. We are now 252 chapters and over 12,000 members strong. WE ARE GROWING!!!! SMALL AND MIGHTY CHAPTER TASKFORCE Their name says it all – this team of seven outstanding regional leaders led by Chair Dorinda Carter Andrews (MidWestern Region) may be small but they are truly mighty. With several decades of combined Jack and Jill experience, they are laser-focused on supporting our smaller Jack and Jill chapters. Understanding that quantity is not an indicator of quality, this taskforce has engaged in one-on-one meetings with each small chapter, documenting their challenges and successes. Plans are underway to assemble resources that can be leveraged across the chapters. These tools are in addition to the customized, individualized support they are preparing to meet our members’ needs. In addition, this taskforce will actively engage in supporting our newest chapters, most of which are small in size. I have no doubt that with the guidance of this team, our smallest chapters will continue to thrive. CONCLUSION As you can see, we are hard at work, focused on elevating the membership experience and helping our mothers access the many benefits that Jack and Jill has to offer. We are here for YOU so please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance and support. And when you do have the opportunity to work with our awesome regional leaders, please join me in thanking these self-less volunteers for all they do for the pink and blue! Mothers, it is a privilege and honor to serve as your National Vice President. Thank you for the opportunity to partner with
you as we leverage our collective Power to Make a Difference for ALL Children, staying On Mission and On Purpose. Let’s continue to move forward together! Sincerely,
Claudia N. Curtis National Vice President FALL/WINTER 2021 / 7
Welcome
TO OUR
JACK AND JILL
FAMILY
CENTRAL REGION CENTRAL MISSOURI
FAR WEST REGION Magnificent Mile, IL
Forest City, IL
Central Missouri Sun Valley, AZ North Mississippi
SUN VALLEY, AZ
MID-WESTERN REGION FOREST CITY, IL MAGNIFICENT MILE, IL
SOUTHEASTERN REGION NORTH MISSISSIPPI
CENTRAL MISSOURI CHAPTER
CENTRAL MISSOURI CHAPTER
FOREST CITY CHAPTER MOMS
FOREST CITY CHAPTER FATHER’S AUXILIARY
FOREST CITY CHAPTER E-BOARDS (MOMS & TEENS)
MAGNIFICENT MILE CHAPTER TEEN BOARD
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CHAPTER INSTALLATIONS
MAGNIFICENT MILE CHAPTER
NORTH MISSISSIPPI CHAPTER MOMS
Congratulations! TO OUR NEWEST CHAPTERS
SUN VALLEY CHAPTER MOMS
SUN VALLEY CHAPTER FATHER’S AUXILIARY
SUN VALLEY CHAPTER TEEN BOARD
FALL/WINTER 2021 / 9
National Treasurer
NADINE J. GIBSON
NATIONAL BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMITTEE I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the members of the National Budget and Finance Committee. This team of Regional Treasurers is not only critical to the financial operations of this organization, they are also one of the hardest working committees in our organization. While Jack and Jill of America is 252 chapters strong, as liaisons the chapters and the national organization, these incredible women ensure that we operate as one when it comes to our finances. Meet the finance MVPs!
NATIONAL BUDGET & FINANCE COMMITTEE
Greeting Mothers,
I
t is hard to believe that we are already halfway through our program year and so much as already been accomplished. Serving as your National Treasurer has truly been a pleasure. My commitment to you is to serve in manner that helps deliver on the promise to focus on our children. TAKE ACTION I started off my term with a vision for delivering finances that are on mission and on purpose. I committed and continue to take ACTION. Accountability is required and begins with doing what is required in our governance. Quarterly reports are delivered and access to financial documents made available per our governance. Controlled event budgets ensure that we don’t overspend or over allocate our budgets. With the addition of Sr. Accountant Fatima Ceesay, tracking our monthly spend has become a part of our standard operating practice. Transparent finances include being accessible to review our quarterly finances and answer questions when additional clarity is needed. Innovation means that we will use technology in a way that creates efficiencies without adding undue complexity. Through the implementation of new software, we have significantly improved our bill payment and voucher reimbursement process at Headquarters. Overseeing our finances is not a bystander activity. After just a few short months, I have identified opportunities to optimize our spending and make wise investments across all assets. KNowledge is key to ensuring we maintain a strong financial legacy. Our Regional Treasurers play a huge part in ensuring that chapter financial leaders are prepared and that they are leading in the area of finances within their own chapters. Leaders create leaders who are likewise empowered for ACTION.
A
C T I
O N
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Pictured from top left: MICHELE HENRY-MCGEE (Central), MELISSA DESRAVINES (Eastern), JANECE RICHARD (Far West), TARCIA FLEMMING (MidAtlantic), DEIDRE LINDSEY (Mid-Western), LAKENYA COLLINS (South Central), TAMMIE MCFARLAND (Southeastern)
In addition to my financial role, I have the pleasure of serving as liaison to two amazing Task Force Committees – Our Health Matters and Growing Strategically. OUR HEALTH MATTERS TASK FORCE The Power of Safe and Healthy Families! This committee led by Chair Qiana Amos, Far West Region, has been engaged uniquely due to the pandemic and the nation impact it has had on our programming and families. Thanks to their collective knowledge, we published a COVID-19 Special Edition of our Quarterly Newsletter and most recently a FAQs about the vaccine. The results of dealing with this pandemic has increase our need to be mindful of our Mental Health and those of our children. In partnership with The Sonrise Project, we have hosted our first quarterly discussion on how to help our children cope and provide a listening ear to them during this time. In the month of February we will prepare to Go Red and focus on being heart healthy. Partnering with the American Heart Association, we will provide heart healthy programming for our families throughout the month. GROWING STRATEGICALLY TASK FORCE The charge of the Growing Strategically committee is to extend the Jack and Jill experience to more families. Intentional growth is important so that we can properly support our new chapters and set them up for success. Led by Chair Jeniqua Duncan, Mid-Atlantic Region, we have updated our marking
“Leadership is about vision and responsibility, not power.” presentation for interest groups and continue to work closely with the Membership Committee to support training for new provisional groups. To this end, the establishment of standardized training has been identified as a strategic priority. The outcome of a successful provisional group experience leads to successful chapter establishment. This year we welcomed 5 new chapters, 2 of which are in my region. Congratulations to the 81 Mothers of Magnificent Mile Chapter and the 20 Mothers Forest City Chapter. Today we are 40 chapters strong!
On Mission. On Purpose. Serving with the women on the NEB has been a wonderful opportunity. I firmly believe that God’s plan and purpose requires us to humbly make ourselves available to Him as He accomplishes His good and perfect will. This NEB is determined to serve in a manner worthy of the trust you have placed in us. It is my honor to serve with them and I look forward to finishing strong. We are On Mission and On Purpose. I would like to end by saying thank you to the people that allow me to serve. My home chapter Cincinnati, under the leadership of President Agnes Godwin-Hall, and my family, Marcus, Isabela, and Marc-Anthony. You make serving worthwhile. Long Live Jack and Jill!
Nadine J. Gibson National Treasurer
MIGHTY REGION, MIGHTY LEADERS, MIGHTY LOVE
MIGHTY REGION, MIGHTY LEADERS As the National Officer of the Mighty Mid-Western Region, it has been my pleasure to support our region’s events and initiatives. We live out our regional theme, Living the Jack and Jill Experience - Mission Minded, Dream Driven, in everything that we do. Under the leadership of Regional Director Tanya Watson, we have executed many successful events. Even in the midst of COVID, we have provided excellent programming by re-imagining our year. Starting with the President’s Summit in August and most recently, our Mother and Teen Area Workdays. We even had an
opportunity to host a Fireside Chat with our inaugural class of leaders in the MWR Rising Star Leadership Academy. Children and Teen programming have also required re-imaging. Our Teen officers led by President Richard Chandler are an exceptional group of young adults. They are creative, energetic and our Teen programming have been exceptional so far. I could not be prouder to be a part of this region.
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National Program Director
SHIRELL A. GROSS
WE ARE ONE TASK FORCE Our logo includes an important word “ALL’’. The task force works to ensure our programming and service is for ALL of our children, including our special needs children. They use a threeprong approach, EDUCATE, IMPLEMENT, and INTEGRATE. This task force has created guidebooks, resources, educates our membership and elevates the experiences of our children. NATIONAL CURRICULUM COMMITTEE AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS COMMITTEE We are committed to ensuring our children have a solid curriculum that prepares our children for a successful future. This committee has been evaluating our current programming, identifying gaps, and identifying and assessing new curriculum partners. To date, we have finalized our INROADS partnership and are finalizing other PROGRAMMING AND COMMUNITY partners.
Greetings Mothers of Jack and Jill,
I
t has been my pleasure to serve as your National Program Director this year. I have the distinct honor of working closely with the Regional MAL(s), National Programming and Curriculum committees and We are One Task Force. We have been hard at work executing innovative and quality programming and service for ALL CHILDREN. Of equal importance, we are taking a close look at our processes, curriculum, and making changes that enable our chapters to seamlessly execute powerful programming and community service. I want to say thank you to the MAL(s) and each of the Committees for their exemplary work PROGRAMMING National Programming Committee During our first few months, the committee has planned and delivered NEW and INNOVATIVE programming and launched efficiency projects. They have conducted both national and regional training, brought back Bedtime Stories, hold monthly program director meetings in ALL regions, We are One Task Force collaboration, and launched efficiency projects. The pandemic has forced us to virtual reality but did not stop us from delivering quality. A special Bedtime Stories and Talk Back with David and Lyn Talbert, the producers and directors of the hit movie Jingle Jangle was planned. The committee has also launched a College and Career Readiness series with admissions expert, Carole Sutton Lewis, and “Closing the Wealth Gap” webinar hosted by CNBC Sharon Epperson. We have so much more planned -- Career Conversations, a Black History Month program, a Women’s History Month Program, and Programming and We are One, Social Media/ Technology, and Closing the Gap webinars. 12 / EXECUCOM
SPECIAL PROGRAMMING This year with the global pandemic, economic crisis, and racial tension, our National President desired to do something special for the Mothers. Home for the Holidays-a Pajama Jam was the response. I had the pleasure of working with a fantastic ad hoc committee to deliver an exceptional virtual experience for almost two thousand Jack and Jill families. The Master of Ceremonies was our very own Mother Sheinelle Jones of The Today Show. We had a special performance by Dads who are award winning Broadway Jazz musicians Mark Gross Sr., and Brian Stokes
Mitchell, a Charcuterie presentation, a Dress your cookie segment, and Celebrity Readers featuring our very own award winning Actors Mother Dionne Williams and Keith David. We jammed throughout the evening with music by our Teen DJ(s). SERVICE: Regional Members at Large The Regional Members at Large have been hard at work ensuring SERVICE and our Jack and Jill of America Foundation remain important priorities. The MAL(s) continued to guide chapters with virtual fundraising and community service efforts, presented grants and community service updates at Area Work Days, and worked with Jack and Jill of America Foundation Inc. to review and revise our grant programs, as needed. During the second half of the year, we will be improving our community service program, updating the MAL Handbook, and Fundraising guidelines. SOUPER Bowl of Caring We have had a longstanding commitment to addressing food security which also includes working with Souper Bowl of Caring (SBOC) in a national effort to combat hunger. During the 2019 - 2020 Program Year, 123 Jack and Jill Chapters participated in the Souper Bowl of Caring event, representing 50% of Jack and Jill Chapters. Our participation resulted in: • $43,299 in cash for food • 622,705 food items donated • 66,183 pounds of food donated During this Program Year, we had 4 volunteers participate in the Souper Bowl of Caring New Year’s Eve televised charity event where they raised over 2000 donations and $125,000 in less than 3 hours. Shirell A. Gross National Program Director
“Programming is the HEART of our beloved organization and service is in our SOUL.”
H ME JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED
FOR THE
A JINGLE ‘JAMA JAM
SMASH SUCCESSES: Our Netflix watch event for Jingle Jangle and our Home for the Holidays Jingle ‘Jama Jam FALL/WINTER 2021 / 13
National Recording Secretary
ROBIN RICE HODGES
THE HODGES FAMILY
Greetings Mothers and Associates of Jack and Jill of America,
I
am grateful and humbled to serve as your National Recording Secretary. I do not take this responsibility lightly. It is truly an honor to serve you and to serve with our phenomenal and committed National Executive Board. To say we hit the ground running last August is an understatement. These dynamic women have already proven they are up to the challenge and have been diligently working for you and our beloved Jack and Jill. REGIONAL SECRETARIES Your extremely dedicated Regional Secretaries, as always, have been hard at work on your behalf. As this is the 2nd year of their term, they are full steam ahead. This fall, they assisted in reviewing the 2020 National Convention transcript for accuracy, assisted their regional teams in putting on excellent and creative virtual area workdays and have been integral in helping to chart the course for the transition to our new MIS, Digital Cheetah. This spring, the Regional Secretaries will hold their annual retreat to continue preparation for our Children’s Clusters and support another round of virtual summer conferences. Their dedication and attention to detail is truly appreciated! It is a joy to serve as their NEB liaison. NOMINATING COMMITTEE Your Regional Nominating Committee has been hard at work reviewing and updating our Campaign Guidelines in preparation for regional officer elections during the 2021 Mother and Teen conferences. They will be sharing the updated guidelines and other important information regarding the nominating and elections process during upcoming webinars in their respective regions. In addition, they will prepare the candidate profile book for distribution this spring and lead the virtual elections process for their regions this summer. We hope that many of you and your teens are interested in serving Jack and Jill at the regional 14/ EXECUCOM
CENTRAL MISSOURI CHAPTER
level! Please feel free to reach out to your Regional Nominating Chair with any questions. TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE The key words for our National Technology Committee are: DIGITAL CHEETAH. These smart and resourceful “techies” have been instrumental in implementation of Digital Cheetah as our new MIS. During the fall, in addition to supporting virtual area workdays in each of their regions, our Regional Technology chairs worked with our Regional Secretaries to gather historical event data for import into Digital Cheetah, helped to develop and conduct our pilot test and provided invaluable feedback regarding features and functionality of Digital Cheetah. In addition, they continue to serve as the front-line “help desk” for our chapter mothers learning to use the new MIS. Their work is not done. Our Regional Technology Chairs will once again play a key role in helping their regions conduct virtual Children’s Clusters, Teen Conferences and Mothers’ Regional Conferences. Their expertise and diligence have been and continue to be exemplary. NATIONAL YOUTH TRIP TASK FORCE Due to the pandemic, we were sadly unable to host our National Youth Trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in May of 2020. The National Youth Trip Task Force planned a phenomenal trip to the Black Wall Street, featuring Oklahoma’s All-Black Towns, and the Black Rodeo. We have postponed to 2022 and hope you will make plans to join us then. The year 2021 holds the promise of restoration for our nation. I am proud to be a Jack and Jill Mom because I know we collectively remain committed to the Mission and Vision of our great organization - ensuring our youth are prepared to lead in their very bright futures. I am also extremely grateful to my family for allowing me to serve as National Recording Secretary. I could not do this without their love and support. Blessings,
Robin Rice Hodges National Recording Secretary
OUR NEW APP We are continuing to release new features of our Membership Information System (MIS) in 2021, including the introduction of our Jack and Jill app, available now on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Powered by
digital cheetah FALL/WINTER 2021 / 15
National Corresponding Secretary
SATIVA LEACH-BOWEN
and to provide a strategic framework that will incorporate a wholistic approach to the review process. This committee has been formed and will begin their work in the coming months.
I
n many ways, 2020 challenged all of us to adapt, adjust and assume extraordinary resilience for the personal and professional opportunities we faced. We as a collective body of mother members in this organization, did exactly that -- we made the difference for our families and our community. Our Governance Oversight… At the first ever virtual 2020 National Convention, our chapter leaders served day and night to pass 62 new bylaws out of the 116 submitted. These new bylaws provided clarity to existing matters of legal guardianship, provided for the existing participation of children of our dear departed mothers, provided for the new normal of virtual meetings and fortified our new member intake voting process. The newly appointed National Bylaws committee, led by Chair Livings, went to work ensuring that the deadlines for updates were met timely and thoughtfully ensuring feedback from your Regional and National Executive Boards. Soon after that work was finished, we turned our attention to the Chapter Bylaw reviews and expect to provide feedback early this year. We delivered, on time, on mission and on purpose to ensure all members and chapter had sound governance to follow. The National Policies and Procedures committee led by Chair Mack-Askew provided exceptional support in drafting the Teen guidelines from bylaws to procedures and then quickly pivoted to begin the tedious work of updating policies to support the newly adopted bylaws. We solicited feedback from all the National Committees by way of their NEB liaisons and from the Regional Directors. Although this work is ongoing, we are working hard to ensure there is a collective consensus every step of the way before they are published to all mother members. Finally, we have developed a brain trust of prior leaders, led by Chair Tarpeh to form an ad hoc committee to look across the governance within our organization to break down silos that might exist, to create a repository of our governance decisions, 16/ EXECUCOM
Our Legislative Voice… We continued the partnership with When We All Vote, that was nurtured by the previous committee, providing weekly Social Media posts to educate and activate our voting strength across the nation. With the tireless support of Mother, Children and Teens we were able to raise or voices not just to get out the vote, but we activated our individual advocacy by serving at the polls and working the polls. We made national, state, and local news reels – we made a difference for our children and all children this election season! On the eve of a historic inauguration of the 1st African – American woman to hold the office of Vice President of the United States of America, our committee led by Chair Hunter was able to, in just short of a month plan, secure policy makers and execute the first social/civil organization celebratory event on January 16th. We recognized our own public servants within the organization and were joined by Senators, Congressman, Governors and Mayors who all affirmed our organization’s impact in this election season.
WHEN WE ALL VOTE
Our Fathers the foundation of our Family‌ The strength of the family can be found in the fathers who continue to support from the sidelines the mothers and children in their endeavors live, work, and play in Jack and Jill. Led by Chair Dow, they are working to support programming by serving as readers for Bedtime stories in the spring, by supporting our community with Super Bowl of Caring and by helping to redefine the stereotypes of black males in our community. It has been a privilege and a pleasure to be the liaison to these committees, because they are more than servant leaders, they are selfless as well. To represent you the mother members as the National Corresponding Secretary, is Heart work, not Hard work. I am humbled to serve and stay ready to work on behalf of you the magnificent mother members, our children, our associates and our fathers of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.
Sativa Leach Bowen National Corresponding Secretary
FALL/WINTER SUMMER 2019 2021 / 13 17
“ FLORENCE LANKFORD
If we merge mercy with might and might with right, then love becomes our legacy and change our children’s birthright. AMANDA GORMAN Greetings Mothers,
”
National Editor
I
2020-2021
NATIONAL TEEN BOARD
Pictured from top left: XAVIER DAVIS (Central), JOCELYNN DOW (Eastern), KYLA COAXUM (Far West), ARI GIBSON (Mid-Atlantic), RICHARD CHANDLER (Mid-Western), SASHA WILSON (South Central), BARBARA JOY TILLMAN (Southeastern)
16/ EXECUCOM 18/
t is amazing to think we had our National Convention just 5 months ago. Yet here we are almost at the end of our 2021 calendar year. It is truly an honor to serve as your National Editor and work with the remarkable and committed ladies of our National Executive Board. Since the beginning of my tenure, I have had the pleasure of working with our National Teen Board and serving as the National Executive Board Liaison to the National Public Relations Committee, the National Historical Task Force, National Historian, National Archivist, March of Dimes Foundation and St. Jude’s Children Research. NATIONAL TEEN BOARD These outstanding young people are our future and as I sometime say “has given me life.” They are truly the best of the best and are such a dynamic group of leaders from all over our country. We are continuing with our teen webinars and will showcase the following: Protection of Black Women, Social Activism and Civic Engagement, How to Cope and Handle Police Brutality, Equity in Education, What is Black Pop Culture/Rap and How to Address Mental Health. This group of phenomenal leaders are steadfast with the mission and vision of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Our Teen Presidents understand that with great opportunity comes great responsibility. Along with their regional constituents, the themes for each regional Teen Conference are below. Regional Teen Conference Themes • Central: “It is My Time to Shine, Change the World and Make it MINE!” • Eastern: “We are the Movement you Fear” • Far West: “Our Skin Should Not be a Sin” • Mid-Atlantic: “Black by Popular Demand” • Mid-Western: “Black Excellence: The New Gold Standard” • South Central: “Together We S.T.R.I.D.E” (Serve, Thrive, Reach, Inspire, Discover, Evolve) • Southeastern: “United as a People, Fighting to be Equal”
NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE As we continue to follow our social media guidelines, the committee has worked on increasing action-based visibility on social media Incorporated, (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter). They have been working diligently to aid with branding and the “Dos and Don’ts” for our correspondence rporatedand hasparaphernalia. proudly supported the work of March
Dimes is significant to our organization’s rich history.
ath in children underHISTORICAL the age of five worldwide. This NATIONAL TASK FORCE / NATIONAL HISTORIAN m in the AND United States and preterm birth rates in our NATIONAL ARCHIVIST ms and babies are dying or offacing health This astounding group ladies serious are working to preserve our history. ueled byThey thehave health equity gap ininour health information care been instrumental collecting for our history KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN and also fathers, Jack or at thebook greatest risk.showcasing and spotlighting our mothers, 27TH NATIONAL PRESIDENT and Jill Alumni and Associates on our website.
JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC.
ed to be observed on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 proudly supported workofofNovember, March sis. Throughout thethe month the March ficant to MARCH our organization’s rich history. the lifesaving research, treatments and community OF DIMES FOUNDATION ether to give every baby a fighting chance. Within Jack and has a long-standing relationship with March of Dimes and under the age ofJill five worldwide. This we continued to Make a Difference by raisingwho over $172,000 last year. and Jill members have given birth to babies d States and preterm birth rates in our We have a March new initiative with March of Dimes called Share our Stories. ued support, the of Dimes can give every s are dying or facing serious health This program allows our membership to share their stories and discuss rams, education, scientific research and advocacy health equity gap in our health care
LANKFORD how we can bring awareness as well as support to helpFLORENCE all families
KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN NATIONAL EDITOR est risk. have stronger, healthier babies. 27TH NATIONAL PRESIDENT JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC. JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC. Mondays) via our national social media platforms, ted the work of March ved on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 asthe well. Also, to show our the support of the March of ganization’s rich history. ut month of November, March ssresearch, on World Prematurity Day, I am treatments and community asking for all five worldwide. This rof 17th, in a media campaign. very baby asocial fighting chance. Within Please post a eterm birth rates in our al color forgiven this observance, on your bers have birth to babies whopersonal social facing seriousand health rematurityDay #JJforblanketchange. he March of Dimes can give every ap in our health care on, scientific CEO research and advocacy KORNISHA MCGILLhighlighting BROWN ey Stewart, of March of Dimes, 27TH NATIONAL PRESIDENT FLORENCE LANKFORD STACEY STEWART Lastly, as I2020 reflect National on this Winter of EXECUCOM, I’d like JACKspecial AND JILL OF AMERICA,version INC. ram year at the Convention. Thank NATIONAL EDITOR CEO JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC. arch MARCH DIMES y,and November 17, 2020 to thank our Headquarters Team for all the day in and day outOFwork beyond despite a global pandemic. our national social media platforms, istory. they do all our publications. Once again thank you for the privilege November, thefor March to showtoour support the March serve as yourof National Editor.ofI take extreme joy in having The Power tments and community This Prematurity Day, I am asking to MakeWithin a Difference forfor All all Children as We Stay On Mission. On ghting chance. our media cial campaign. Please post a Purpose. VIEW VIDEO nalth birth to babies who observance, on your personal social Dimes can give every care Long Live Jack and Jill, and #JJforblanketchange. KORNISHA MCGILL BROWN esearch and advocacy 27TH NATIONAL PRESIDENT FLORENCE LANKFORD JACK ANDof JILL OF AMERICA, highlighting INC. EO of March Dimes, NATIONAL EDITOR JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC. STACEY STEWART 020 e 2020 National Convention. Thank CEO ocial media platforms, MARCH OF DIMES arch despite a global pandemic. Lankford ur partnership with March of Dimes as we stay On upport ofFlorence the March of unity National Editor ence For All Children. y, I am asking for all ithin mpaign. Please post a who n your personal social very nketchange. cacy
STACEY STEWART
CEO MARCH OF DIMES
Dimes as we stay On
REGIONAL TEEN PRESIDENTS
ting ank
SPORT WHEN WE ALL VOTE TEES
FLORENCE LANKFORD
of Dimes, highlighting NATIONAL EDITOR JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INC. STACEY STEWART nal Convention. Thank CEO rms, MARCH OF DIMES al pandemic. h of r with all March of Dimes as we stay On hildren. ost a ocial
FALL/WINTER 2021 / 19
JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED
REFLECTIONS MY FONDEST MEMORY OF JACK AND JILL
PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT JOLI COOPER 25th National President
S
erving as Jack and Jill of America’s 25th National President was an honor and privilege. I have too many fond memories to count, from our Viva La Cuba Cultural Exchange to #jjswims to our 80th Anniversary Museum to Jack and Jill’s beautiful history book -- For The Children.
Believing in the Chinese proverb -- “Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I’ll understand.” -my fondest memory was our 2018 Children’s Crusade — The Power of Children: Then and Now. In partnership with the Children’s Defense Fund, over 2,000 Jack and Jill family members and guests gathered in Birmingham, Alabama to honor and commemorate the historic 1963 Children’s Crusade. Together, we remembered one of the most inspiring and courageous acts of resistance by children, a movement that changed the course of history. The 2018 Children’s Crusade gave our children an opportunity to learn first-hand about D-Day, the Civil Rights movement, and the influential role of children in leading social change. Today’s political and social climate puts the future of our children at grave risk; therefore, every opportunity to ensure they are equipped and prepared to fight for their future is a gift. Our children must be informed, knowledgeable and ready to advocate for the pressing social issues of our time – systemic racism, economic inequality, social injustice, intolerance and gun violence. Children listened to the inspiring words of Marian Wright Edelman, founder and president of the Children’s Defense Fund; human rights advocate Martin Luther King III and his inspiring daughter, Yolanda Renee King; Dianne Braddock, sister of Carole Robertson; Pastor Author Price of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, and a host of 1963 Foot Soldiers. It was an amazing and memorable experience that focused on what matters most – our children. 20/ EXECUCOM
Children participated in interactive workshops, book readings, the “Art of Protest” poster making, Authors in the Park, panel discussions on the role of today’s youth in social advocacy, the largest Jack and Jill Black Family Day celebration ever, a Youth/ Teen Talent Showcase and tours of historic museums, including the new Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice, America’s first national memorial dedicated to victims of racial terror and lynching and a museum dedicated to slavery and its legacy. I will always remember The 2018 Children’s Crusade as a true Jack and Jill mission moment and hope our that our children left with a deeper understanding and appreciation of The Power of Children: Then and Now.
PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT IDA L. YOUNGE 19th National President
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he Ida Younge Administration oversaw the renovation and opening of our National Headquarters in Washington, D.C. The intention was to establish a physical space where we could conduct the business of our organization, while forging stronger connections with other like-minded organizations, national advocacy opportunities, and the District itself. We wanted our presence in the community to be seen and felt in meaningful ways. It was also my goal to create a homelike atmosphere, where members of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated from across the United States would always feel welcome to gather and celebrate our sisterhood.
children of a local family who were born on May 8, 1997. Under National President Ingrid Miller, our organization connected with the Thompson family to ensure the family felt supported as they embarked on the joyful and challenging journey of raising quints. Surrounded by the Thompson children, my husband and youngest daughter, I was very proud of our organization and the mothers who came before me. I felt so privileged to represent the membership and stand for something bigger than myself. I was grateful for all who had contributed to the establishment of our home. I reflected on the many ways the organization could move forward and focus on all of our aims, but most importantly, “to seek for all children, the same advantages which we desire for our own”. It reinforced my strong belief that the work we do is important and that nurturing the development of children helps to build strong families and communities. I was privileged to witness on many occasions, the opportunities created by our mothers, teens and children that directly benefited others. I vowed to continue to keep our legacy strong.
In December of 2003, the executive staff and elected officers celebrated our first Christmas in our new home. Mioshi Moses, then Executive Director, coordinated everything to capture the blessings of the season. Nearby chapters dropped off ornaments to decorate the tree and gifts for our invited guests. By the time I arrived from California, everything was merry and bright. Joining us were The Thompson Quintuplets, the
PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT ALICE LEIGH PEOPLES 20th National President
I
t’s very difficult to identify one single fondest memory of my association with Jack and Jill. I’ve been very blessed, honored and privileged to have experienced so many wonderful events.
The most meaningful for me and the ones that have stayed with me are the ones that involve the children. Throughout my active and associate membership, I have been honored to be present at the chartering ceremonies of several chapters. All of these occasions were so inspiring and beautiful and lasting reminders of the possibilities, purpose, and power of this organization. The charter celebrations that left the most lasting impressions were the ones that highlighted the children. A few examples are Lake Spivey, Georgia and Katy-Prairie View, Texas outside of my region and Greater Grand Rapids, South Central
Wisconsin, Great Lakes Bay, Greater Northeast Indiana, and Erie Shores in my own, Mid-Western Region. The children and teens sang, and recited, and danced, and spoke about what the chartering journey had been for them. They honored their mothers and practiced “protocol” by thanking the leaders who had helped. I was always so overwhelmed with emotion to see their faces and feel the love that their mothers had worked so hard to instill in them. For me, it reminds me of the purpose, the reason for all the work, the effort, the challenges, the critical conversations. I am most honored by the fact that I know that my work benefited many children and that our communities are enriched by the work of the mothers and fathers of the chapters. We are raising children who have made and will continue to make a difference where they work, play, and live. This is what matters. The work you do matters, our children are depending on us to bring our very best and they absolutely matter. Thank you for the honor of serving. It has enriched my life and the lives of my children beyond measure. God bless Jack and Jill. FALL/WINTER WINTER 2021 2021/ /2121
OUR LEGACIES!
Tiffany D. Jackson
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iffany D. Jackson is the critically acclaimed author of YA novels including the Coretta Scott King — John Steptoe New Talent Award-winning Monday’s Not Coming, the NAACP Image Awardnominated Allegedly, Let Me Hear A Rhyme, and her forthcoming 2020 title GROWN. She received her bachelor of arts in film from Howard University, her master of arts in media studies from the New School, and has over a decade in TV/Film experience. The Brooklyn native is a lover of naps, cookie dough, and beaches, currently residing in the borough she loves, most likely multitasking. Tiffany grew up in Brooklyn Heights but also count places like Fort Greene, Far Rockaway, East New York, and Kingston, Jamaica as her home. She attended Hendrick Hudson High School in Montrose, NY, she received her bachelor of arts in film from Howard University, and her master of arts in media studies from
MID-HUDSON VALLEY CHAPTER
the New School University. She has over a decade of experience in the television industry, working for various networks and media companies including National Geographic (focused on documentaries such as Lockdown, a prison subculture series) Roc Nation, BET, FUSE, BBC AMERICA, and EPIX. From managing live events, concerts, festival showcases such as BET AWARDS and SXSW Music Show Case, to TV series, specials, and pilots such as FUSE: TOP 20 Countdown, Trending 10, The Hustle: After Party Live and instudio concert series to producing hiphop documentaries and artist promotional spots. In 2009, she wrote and directed the short horror film, The Field Trip, receiving praise in the film festival circuit.
Tyler Mitchell
NORTH SUBURBAN ATLANTA CHAPTER
A
t the age of 23, Tyler Mitchell became one of the youngest photographers to shoot an American Vogue cover. Photographing Beyoncé for the magazine’s September 2018 issue, Mitchell made history as the first black photographer to shoot the cover in the magazine’s 126-year history. Most recently, Tyler made headlines by photographing then Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris for the cover of Vogue for a January 2021 feature. Mitchell grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and took up photography as a teenager, buying his first camera in the ninth grade. He was interested in skateboarding culture and taught himself how to make skate videos. Mitchell then applied to NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a short horror film he made at his parents’ house. As a freshman, he began shooting music videos for rapper Kevin Abstract and indie bands like Brockhampton. Instead of signing with an agent, Mitchell showcased his work through Instagram, 22/ EXECUCOM
eventually landing jobs with Marc Jacobs, Givenchy and Converse. In 2015, he travelled to Cuba and upon returning home, selfpublished a book about Havana’s skating culture. Mitchell shot the cover for Teen Vogue’s digital issue on gun reform in March 2018, photographing teenage gun reform activists around the country, which caught the attention of Raul Martinez, Condé Nast’s corporate creative director. He was then commissioned to shoot the Beyoncé cover. Since, Mitchell’s work has also appeared in publications including British Vogue, i-D, AnOther Magazine and The Guardian, and he counts among his clients Calvin Klein, Prada, Nike, Mercedes Benz and Simone Rocha x Moncler, among others. In 2018, he featured in the 100 individuals recognised by the British Fashion Awards New Wave Creatives and was listed in Forbes 30 Under 30 Art & Style in 2019.
Codie Elaine Oliver FORT WORTH CHAPTER
F
ormer South Central Region Teen President Codie Elaine Oliver is a graduate of Howard University and the Stark Producing Program at USC. Before becoming a filmmaker, she worked in feature film development at Fox Searchlight and crafted original events and supported filmmaking programs at Film Independent, LA Film Festival, and the Film Independent Spirit Awards. Oliver is an Affiliate to the board of the Blackhouse Foundation. She is the founder of LA-based organization, We Are the Industry, for professionals of diverse backgrounds entering the industry. In 2017, she co-produced her first feature, Destined, starring Cory Hardrict and Jesse Metcalfe. With husband Tommy Oliver, she co-created and directed “Black Love”, a hit docu-series on the OWN network which became the highest rated unscripted show in OWN’s history when it debuted. Featuring notable celebrity faces like Viola Davis & Julius Tennon, Tia Mowry & Cory Hardrict, Terry & Rebecca Crews and Kandi Burruss & Todd Tucker. The series reveals a myriad of Black relationships, the ups and downs and ultimately positive love stories that are ignored or untold. “As a Black woman, I knew that I wanted to have a family. Yet, in the media and entertainment, it felt like we were being portrayed as anything but happy, loving mothers and fathers and husbands and wives,” says Oliver.
“I want to do what makes me happy until it doesn’t anymore.”
Prentice Penny
LOS ANGELES CHAPTER
and Co-Producer on the series Do Not Disturb, where he notes he was the only Black writer on the series. In 2016 he became the showrunner for Insecure on HBO a role which he’s maintained for all seasons of the series. In 2020 Insecure was nominated for eight Emmy Award nominations for its fourth season, including the Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series. In March 2020 his first feature film Uncorked, a father/son story of an African-American man attempting to become a sommelier, premiered on Netflix.
A
producer, writer, and director, Prentice Penny is best known as the showrunner for the HBO series Insecure. He is the writer and director of the Netflix film Uncorked. He was the creator and host of the show Upscale with Prentice Penny and is also known for his roles as writer and producer on the series Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Hustle, and Scrubs.
Prentice is married to Jack and Jill Far West Region Member-atLarge Tasha Penny, whom he met at a Teen Conference.
◀ A BLAST FROM THE PAST: Prentice and Tasha steal a moment together.
Prentice began his professional career as a writer’s trainee on the show Girlfriends where he eventually became a staff writer. He moved on to work as a writer FALL/WINTER 2021 / 23
A CLOSER LOOK
JACK AND JILL QUILTING PROJECT In order to promote and preserve the rich history and to show the uniqueness and diversity of our chapters of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, The National Historical Task Force was excited to implement the National Quilt Project. Chapters from our seven regions displayed their creativity to ensure that our history was preserved for future generations with images that were beautifully captured on the quilt squares.
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FALL/WINTER 2021 / 25
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD AND REGIONAL LEADERSHIP CENTRAL
EASTERN
FAR WEST
MID-ATLANTIC
MID-WESTERN
SOUTH CENTRAL
SOUTHEASTERN
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD
NATIONAL RECORDING SECRETARY Robin Rice Hodges St. Clair County
NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR Shirell A. Gross Bergen-Passaic
NATIONAL EDITOR Florence Lankford Santa Clarita/Antelope Valley
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Claudia N. Curtis Durham
NATIONAL TREASURER Nadine J. Gibson Cincinnati
NATIONAL CORRESPONDING SECRETARY Sativa Leach-Bowen Arlington
NATIONAL PRESIDENT Kornisha McGill Brown Columbus, GA
REGIONAL DIRECTORS
Suzanne Ornelas Greater Little Rock
Melinda Alexis-Hayes Brooklyn
Diane Little North County San Diego
Chanda DouglasWard Durham
Tanya Watson Akron
Danielle Wesley Northeast Dallas
Latrecia Jordan Nashville
REGIONAL TREASURER
Michele Henry-McGee East St. Louis
Melissa Desravines Nassau County
Janece Richard Anchorage
Tarcia Flemming Columbia, SC
Deidre Lindsey Indianapolis
LaKenya Collins New Orleans
Tammie McFarland Greater Tampa
REGIONAL SECRETARY
Thembi Conner-Garcia Greater Peoria
Ily Houston Philadelphia
Amanda McWilliams Las Vegas
Tomisha Gladman Winston Salem
Cynthia Miree-Coppin North Oakland/Macomb
Vanessa LaFleur Baton Rouge
Nyya Parson-Hudson Birmingham
MEMBERAT-LARGE
April Hall-Key Johnson County
Karen Heyward-West Greater Baltimore County
Tasha Penny Los Angeles
Nichelle Levy South Charlotte
Marvis Donalson Western Cook County
Erika Gentry Missouri City-Sugar Land
Darlene McGhee Whittington Greater Metro Atlanta
REGIONAL TEEN PRESIDENTS
Xavier Davis Northwest Arkansas
Jocelynn Hunter Dow Jersey Shore
Kyla Coaxum Inglewood
Ari’ Gibson Charlotte
Richard Chandler Derby City
Sasha Wilson North Texas
BJ (Barbara Joy) Tillman Columbus, GA
NATIONAL COMMITTEES WITH NEB COMMITTEE LIAISON
National Appointments
ASSOCIATE NVP
BUDGET NT (CHAIR)
BYLAWS NCS
Elsie Jackson Des Moines
Rose Richardson Philadelphia
Pamela Gray Payton Karen Washington NationalCharlotte Appointments San Diego
Vynessa Alexander Chicago
L’Sheryl Hudson South Belt Houston
Vickie Williams-Wiley
( C H A IR )
Columbus, GA
National Legal National National Chaplain National Historian National Archivist Chief of Staff Chief of Logistics Michele Janece Richard Ann Caggins Tarcia Flemming Deidre Lindsey LaKenya Jaynaia Collins Griggs Tammie McFarland AdvisorHenry-McGeeCorpMelissa ortate ADesravines dvisor Rev. Dana Patterson Carol Bolden Shondria Covington East St. Louis Nassau County Nelson Anchorage Columbia, SC Stone-El Indianapolis New Orleans Greater Tampa Audrey Boone Monique Walker Tillman Augusta, GA Johnson County, KS Durham, NC Columbus, OH A.Chevelle Glymph Alisa “Niqqi” Nyra Bottley Carol Nealy Monique Brown Dianne Livings (CHAIR) Sharon January Foster Vukasinovich Des Moines Orange County Charleston, SC Austin Greater North Atlanta Washington, DC Dayton
FATHERS AUXILIARY NCS
Kevin Nelson Johnson County
Sherlock Dow (CHAIR) Jersey Shore
Randy Jones Phoenix
Christopher Oliver Fayetteville
Aaron Laramore Circle City
LEGISLATIVE NP
Mimi Volmar Greater Peoria
Evelyn Sample-Oates Montgomery County, PA
Dionne Faulk Inglewood
Aimy Steele Queen City
Deidra Jenkins Western Cook County
Deidra Murphy Greater Frisco
Nicole Lawson Jenkins (Chair) Atlanta
Aaron Bibbins Southwest Louisiana
Dameon Clay Greater Tampa
Marvalette Hunter
Shannon RobertsonChambers Columbus, GA
(CHAIR)
N. Houston Suburban
Sharon Hoskins Nassau County
Nicole Ballard Long Beach
LaQuisha Parks South Charlotte
Sherida DuBose Parson Motor City
Katrina Little (CHAIR) NOMINATING South Suburban NRS Denver
Maida Piggee Northern Virginia
Stacey Bowman Greater Vallejo
Tamika Henderson Raleigh-Wake
Jessica Price Smith Cleveland
Aziza Mims Houston
Gwendolyn Edmonds Columbus, GA
PUBLIC RELATIONS NE
Simone Ross Denver
Andrea Ferguson Peterson Essex-Hudson
Roslyn Patterson North County San Diego
Kimberlei Davis Orangeburg
Darrielle Snipes (CHAIR) Akron
Alice Dungey DFW Mid-Cities
Tomyka Chaney East Suburban Atlanta
POLICIES & PROCEDURES NCS
Nataki Brown Jones Greater Pikes Peak
Mylyn Smith Greater Hartford
Kimberly McCrary Queen City
Tamara Pinckney City of Lakes
Rhonda GoodeDouglas New Orleans
Ameryllis Petway Stone Mountain
PROGRAM NPD
Lashonna Harden Bloomington-Normal
Virna Alexander Rhodes (CHAIR) South Jersey
Rebekah Archer Inglewood
Rebecca Wheeler Walston Hampton
Helen Kemp Cincinnati
Michon King North Suburban Dallas
Selika Sampson Tallahassee
PROTOCOL NP
Pamela MorrisThornton St. Clair County
Robin Williams (CHAIR) Mid-Hudson Valley
Shalonda Glass Contra Costa County
Audrey Curry Durham
Kristina Mays Oakland County
Tracy Slaugher Holmes Humble-Kingwood
Courtney Woods Nashville
Chane Gilliam Burlington County
Tammy Hinkle Los Angeles
Elan Taylor James River
Stephanie Hobson Motor City
Amber Slaughter The Woodlands
Danyell Miller Greater Huntsville
Denise Eaton-May Oakland Bay Area
Allison Copeland Portsmouth
Angelica Anderson Tasker N. Oakland/Macomb
Wanda Montgomery North Texas
Chris Carlisle Richmond
Cecelia Bolden Windy City
Marilyn Jackson Far North Dallas
MEMBERSHIP NVP
TECHNOLOGY NRS
Tonasha Sylvester Kansas City, MO
Lorraine Muhammad (CHAIR)
Bloomington-Normal
5 STAR CHAPTER EXCELLENCE NP
Crystal Johnson Air Capital Wichita
Paula Magnus Nassau
STRATEGIC PLANNING/ RELEVANCE NP
Jon Porter Johnson County
Kelly Reid Bucks County
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Tracy Mack-Askew (CHAIR)
Portland-Willamette
Edrienne Brandon (CHAIR)
San Jose
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Gail Ash Dotson ( C H A IR )
South Miami Florence Holland Tuskegee
NATIONAL TASK FORCES CENTRAL
EASTERN
FAR WEST
MID-ATLANTIC
Karla Montgomery Greater Little Rock
LaKreisha “Kree” Jean Bergen-Passaic
Ryan Michelle Bathé Los Angeles
Sukeena Stephens Greater Fredericksburg
(CHAIR)
Danielle Williams Queens
Shayne Wright Anchorage
Eyanna Lessane Winston-Salem
GROWING Tamara Parker STRATEGICALLY St. Clair County NT
Johnda Scott-Adams Manassas-Woodbridge
Adimika Arthur Oakland Bay Area
LEADERSHIP TRAINING AND Kelly Daniels DEVELOPMENT Greater Peoria NVP
Zipporah Miller Kim Britt Prince George’s County Pomona Area
EMERGENCY RESPONDERS NP WE ARE ONE NPD
Cassandra Steele (CHAIR)
Greater Little Rock
MID-WESTERN
SOUTH CENTRAL
SOUTHEASTERN
Antoinette Patterson Baton Rouge
Desiree Robinson Greater Metropolitan Atlanta
Kelley Kellis Southwestern Michigan
Kristal Daugherty Greater Channel
Eren Page Fayette County Area
Yvonne Blake Chicago
Sharae Bassett Reed Beaumont
Berneta Churchill West Georgia
Tatia Granger (CHAIR) Hampton
Jami Ervin (CO-CHAIR) Columbus, OH
Donna Wise Joseph Missouri City-Sugar Land
Deeawn Roundtree Palm Beach
Angela Wallace Dallas
Chii Onyeagocha Memphis
Jeniqua Duncan (CHAIR)
Florence
Sophia Ford-Glanton St. Louis
OUR HEALTH MATTERS NT
Nicole Howell Greater ChampaignUrbana
Kelly Bethea Qiana Amos (CHAIR) Montgomery County, PA Inland Empire
Ruth Phillips Greensboro
Monica Moroe Lakeshore
NATIONAL HISTORICAL TASK FORCE NE
Shawni Jackson-Triggs East St. Louis
Karen St. Vil Mid-Hudson Valley
Toya Davis Sacramento
Tamara Charity-Brown James River
Aimee Cole-Laramore Circle City
NATIONAL YOUTH TRIP NRS
Ida Roundtree (CHAIR) St. Clair County
Jacqualine Ridgley Santiago New Castle County
Khalisha Jefferson Los Angeles
Jennifer Goins Queen City
Brandy Merritt Ann Arbor
SMALL AND MIGHTY CHAPTER SUPPORT NVP
Chays Williams Northwest Arkansas
DaVon Gorman Morris County
Robin Dozier Tri-Valley
Reisha Drumgold Burlington-Graham
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS NP
Crystal Singleton Greater Peoria
Veda ShamsidSouth Jersey
Jenean Glover San Fernando Valley
Jasmine Smith (CHAIR) Durham
National Chaplain Rev. Dana Patterson Nelson Johnson County
National Historian Ann Caggins
Michelle Mickelroy
BJ Kimbrough Tuscaloosa
(CHAIR)
Fort Worth Celeste Porter Katy-Prairie View
Lisa Bacote Atlanta
Brandi Stephens Red River
Karlene Kiminyo Palm Beach
Karen Hunter North Oakland/ Macomb
Denise Davis Austin
Adria Welcher Stone Mountain
National Archivist Carol Bolden Stone-El Durham
Chief of Staff Shondria Covington Greater Metropolitan Atlanta
Chief of Logistics Jaynaia Griggs Greater Metropolitan Atlanta
Dorinda Carter Andrews (CHAIR)
Greater Lansing
NATIONAL APPOINTMENTS National Legal Advisor Audrey Boone Tillman Columbus, GA
National Corporate Advisor Monique Walker Augusta
HEADQUARTERS
W
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e thank all of our members, associates, family members, legacies and prospective members for their support and patience during this unprecedented pandemic. We have been working tirelessly to serve you and appreciate the well-wishes and continued guidance as we navigate these uncharted waters. We look forward to being able to continue to provide excellence in service in this forthcoming program year. Congratulations to National President Kornisha McGill Brown and the entire National Executive Board on their successes thus far!
JOI GRADY
Joi
FATIMA CEESAY
Fatima
NATASHA JOHNSTONE
Natasha
SHALIEDA MARQUEZ
Shalieda
KRISTJEN RENARD
Kristjen
Interim Executive Director
Senior Accountant
Membership Director
Administrative Coordinator
Special Projects Manager
FALL/WINTER 2021 / 27
IN THIS TOGETHER
28/ EXECUCOM
#jackandjillinc
FALL/WINTER 2021 / 29
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CONNECT WITH US Visit Jack and Jill’s social media sites at Instagram @jackandjillinc Facebook @jackandjillinc Twitter @jackandjillinc Please use #jackandjillinc to share your successes, wins, and Jack and Jill Family Pride!
TO CONTACT JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA,INC: Email: admin@jack-and-jill.org Call: 1-202-667-7010 Write: Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated 1930 17th Street, Northwest, Washington, DC 20009 Web: http://jackandjillinc.org