Scope 2013

Page 1



SCOPE 2013 FEATURES

2 Greetings from Jack and Jill 6 National Program Committee 7 2012 National Convention Programming Highlights 10 2013 J&J Inaugural Weekend Jack and Jill Makes History 13 Legislative Advocacy Power & Potential 15 Jack and Jill Partnerships The National Spotlight 16 Chapter Programming POWER UP to Reach Our Potential 130

JJOA Foundation We Do Great Things for Kids! 135 Members-at-Large 139 2012 Rebuild Philadelphia 141 Update on Thompson Quintuplets Cover Photo Top Photo - Founding Mothers Marion Stubbs Thomas Louise Truitt Dench Founder & Marion Stubbs Thomas

142 Superior Programming Ratings 147 Our National Executive Board


A Message from the National President

Tamara Turnley Robinson 23rd National President

Cultural Heritage, Historically Black Colleges & Universities linkages, Healthy Living activities, Community Service and Legislative Advocacy are to be commended. Nationally, we are actively partnering with the American Heart Association, the National Museum for African-American Culture & History and the March of Dimes.

W

elcome mothers to the 2013 issue of SCOPE.

Our annual national publication, SCOPE, has been in place since 1953. Its purpose is to spotlight our organizations programming activities across the nation that are at the heart and soul of our mission. On January 21, 2013, we honored the vision of our founding mothers, who in 1938 laid the solid foundation upon which we build. This edition of SCOPE is proof positive that our members have stayed the course and remain steadfast in our efforts to create a medium of contact for children which will stimulate growth and development and to provide a constructive educational, cultural, civic, health, recreational and social program. We are 75 years young and the best is yet to come! As National President, my vision is to continue our legacy and strengthen our position as the premier African-American family organization in the country by focusing on organizational vitality, operational excellence and legislative advocacy. In support of this vision, the 2012–2014 National Executive Board (NEB) has embraced the theme “Power and Potential, Parents Empowering Youth.” We are so pleased to see your support of our programmatic pillars in your SCOPE submissions. Your programs for Leadership in Action, STE[+A]M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), 2

SCOPE 2013

Notably, in January, the NEB hosted a J&J Inauguration Celebration in the Washington DC area to ensure our children were a part of the history and celebration of the re-election of the first African-American President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, and our lovely First Family. Over 1,600 J&J family members participated in the Pink, White and Blue Children’s Inaugural Ball, and enjoyed superlative program offerings in the areas of Leadership in Action, STE[+A]M, Legislative Advocacy and Community Service. Please see the insert in this issue. I am very appreciative of the fantastic work our National Program Director Gladys Henderson and the National Program Committee have done in support of our national programmatic thrust. My appreciation is also extended to my home chapter, North Suburban Atlanta Chapter, the Southeastern Region, and my wonderful family for their continuing support. Mothers, the time, talent and resources you continue to invest in the programming of our organization allow us to continue our rich legacy. On behalf of the National Executive Board, we hope you enjoy the 2013 SCOPE publication.

Tamara Turnley Robinson

23rd National President


A Message from the

National Program Director Gladys Henderson

National Program Director Not only will this provide an opportunity for you to learn about successful programs that our families have enjoyed, but you can use them as a reference point to gain ideas and inspiration that drive improvement of your own activities.

W

hat an exciting time in our history, as we celebrate 75 YEARS of an unwavering commitment to our children, families and communities. For three quarters of a century we have remained a premier African-American family organization as a result of strong programming. Our chapters continue to embrace the solid legacy of programming excellence by implementing innovative and enriching programs through chapter activities, community service, philanthropic giving, legislative advocacy, national and regional programming. As your National Program Director I am excited to present the 2013 edition of SCOPE. First published sixty years ago in 1953, SCOPE spotlights the variety and richness of programs sponsored by our chapters. Our members are implementing excellent programs that uphold our national theme, “Power & Potential: Parents Empowering Youth through Leadership Development, Cultural Heritage and Community Service”. We are mothers committed to the idea that life affords no greater responsibility and no greater privilege than raising African-American children who are extraordinary achievers. SCOPE allows us to highlight only a fraction of the many programming events that we are doing in our communities across the nation. Please take the time to read every article in this year’s SCOPE.

As the Chair of the National Program Committee (NPC), I have the pleasure of working with a group of seven amazing Regional Program Chairs (RPCs). They are selfless, hardworking and committed to generating results that will benefit and empower children and the community, while providing our chapters with the necessary tools to be engaged and informed. Thank you to the National Executive Board under the leadership of National President Tamara Robinson for embracing and always supporting me. A very special thank you to the Sensational South Central Region, under the leadership of Regional Director Millie Mitchell, the Clear Lake/Bay Area Chapter, and my family for being the wind beneath my wings. I also extend my sincere appreciation to Kristjen Renard, Executive Director Dy Brown and Graphic Designer Jill Antos. This publication would not have been possible without each of you. As we look back on our 75 year history, remember that this journey has not been one that has been without sacrifice of time, talent and financial resources, given by our Jack and Jill members from the past and the present. I ask that we continue to challenge ourselves to live up to our motto: “Let’s Work, Let’s Play, Let’s Live Together.” Let us look upon our rich history of programming excellence as a model to continue to grow our organization. Enjoy!

Gladys Henderson

National Program Director SCOPE 2013

3


Greetings from the National Headquarters Dy Brown

Executive Director continued to impress upon each of us the Power and Potential of Parents Empowering Youth through Leadership Development, Cultural Heritage and Community Service. I am enthusiastic with our renewed focus on legislative advocacy and our initiatives around the STE[+A]M field. These are both vital and will propel the organization for decades to come.

Greetings Mothers,

W

elcome to the 2013 SCOPE. As we celebrate 75 years of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, our National Headquarters team is elated to support our members daily. It has been a pleasure meeting our mothers, family members, alumni and partners at the National Convention this past July, our 2013 Presidential Inauguration Celebration in Washington DC, and at a plethora of chapter events. I have one of the first opportunities each year to view countless submissions, articles, and pictures that reveal touching stories in each of our chapters. This time last year, at my six month mark, I remember being in awe of all of the volunteer hours that members devoted to making this world a better place for children and communities. Twelve months later, I am simply amazed as our legacy continues to expand. It is refreshing, more than ever, to support an organization that understands the importance of the African-American family and its role in our nation. Each of you should be commended for choosing to be a part of Jack and Jill of America, and continuing to make it nonpareil! I am personally inspired with our current programming initiatives. This administration has

4

SCOPE 2013

During this program year, our National Headquarters continues to transform all aspects of the administrative side of the membership experience. We are updating our website and have introduced a heritage section and a member spotlight on our public portal. These are both opportunities to share our rich legacy and the successes of our current members. We are also actively engaging members, alumni, and supporters on programming via our new Facebook page. On behalf of the National Headquarters team, congratulations are extended to the 20122014 National Executive Board for exemplifying the meaning of true servant leadership. The dedication to youth programming is inspiring and the numerous accolades are well deserved. This organization would not have survived without our Founders’ vision and chapters who understand the need for dynamic programming. Please enjoy our 2013 SCOPE!

Dyonicia “Dy” Brown

Executive Director


Jack and Jill of America Foundation Jacqueline Bowles, Foundation President Pier A. Blake, Foundation Executive Director Dear Mothers,

T

he success of Jack and Jill of America Foundation is greatly attributed to Jack and Jill Mothers. Our Mothers and Fathers serve on our Board of Trustees and in other leadership roles. Your Trustees rally friends and peers to make donations and lead Foundation initiatives. This year, the legacy of Jack and Jill Foundation proves to be just as relevant as we celebrate 45 years of charitable giving to over 70 national grantees in 2013. “Positive Change with Loose Change” is a program that exposes Jack and Jill children to philanthropy. Throughout the year, these young philanthropists set aside their “loose” change to donate to Jack and Jill Foundation. At the 75th Anniversary National Convention in Philadelphia a check presentation of $10,000 went to the Jay Cooke Elementary School. Throughout the rest of the year, contributions were also made to AFRICARE in the amount of $10,000 to support books for our former National President Eva Wanton at the Eva Wanton’s Library; $4,000 to the Lingelbach School, $4,000 to Roosevelt

Middle School and $2,000 to Germantown High School all in Philadelphia. Children are the hope for the future and Foundation will never give up on any child. It is our responsibility as “care givers” to make sure that children are educated to succeed and lead. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you for your continued to support to the Foundation during this monumentus year. Jack and Jill of America, Inc. – 75 years strong!

Jacqueline Bowles Foundation President

Pier A. Blake

Foundation Executive Director

SCOPE 2013

5


2012–2013

National Program Committee

Gladys Henderson, Chair

Monica Moton Williams Central

Tiffany Aldridge Far West

ShawnDya Simpson Walthour Eastern

Tracy Burton Mid-Atlantic

Melissa Johnson South Central

Shermanita Cotton Mid-Western

Latrecia Jordan Southeastern 6 

SCOPE 2013


LIVING THE LEGACY

Honoring our Past, Celebrating our Present, Securing our Future

2012 NATIONAL CONVENTION PROGRAMMING HIGHLIGHTS TEEN LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

O

ver 100 teens from the around the nation landed in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 24, 2012 to attend the JMB Teen Leadership Summit during the 40th National Convention of Jack and Jill of America. Each teen had successfully completed leadership and financial literacy modules during the program year and earned an invitation to attend the “AIM to LIVE, LEAD and SUCCEED” National Teen Leadership Summit. The 2010-2012 National Program Committee planned a spectacular day that began with a keynote address by renown motivational speaker Marlon Smith, President and CEO of Success by Choice. Invited guests Past President Tara Joseph-Labrie and Past President Jacqueline Moore Bowles, for whom the summit is named, extended greetings to our teens. After a riveting opening, the teens were divided and rotated through 3 advanced sessions that focused on health, leadership and finances led by dynamic facilitators listed below. • Health: Chanda Douglas-Ward, American Heart Association. Toni Barber, Personal and Group Fitness

By: Dr. Cheryl Beal Anderson Immediate Past National Program Director

Trainer, Mark and Shanika Boston, I AM PHRESH Hip Hop Studio. • Leadership: Dr. Eugene Richardson, Tuskegee Airman, Kwame, Alexander, Author and NAACP Image Award Nominee, Flemuel Brown, Executive Producer Real Men Talking. • Finances: Sylvia McKinney, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, Derek Brown, creator of MakeYourJob.org, Teri Cohee, President, OneUnited Bank. The National Program Committee also planned an ‘After-Action’ event in collaboration with Marlon Smith that would occur in September. All teens that attended the Teen Leadership Summit and those who had completed their modules were invited to participate in the first-ever Leadership Accountability Challenge and participate in a webinar. The challenge to our Jack and Jill teens was to answer the questions, ‘What are you doing now as a leader to make a positive difference in your community? How will you inspire your friends and others to also make a positive difference in your community?’ The Leadership Accountability Challenge webinar was SCOPE 2013

7


Lena Hilliard (right) 2012 Leadership Challenge Teen Winner with mother Angela. Congratulations to the Winning Teams of the National Weight Loss Challenge! The national results were revealed during the National Programming Luncheon. First Place: Queens Chapter (Eastern Region) lost 545 pounds (18%); Second Place: Des Moines Chapter (Central Region) lost 131.5 pounds (5.29%); Third Place: Durham, NC Chapter (Mid-Atlantic Region) lost 72.5 pounds (4.84%).

hosted with Marlon Smith. Jack and Jill leaders National President Tamara Robinson, National Program Director Gladys Henderson and Immediate Past National Program Director Cheryl Beal Anderson participated in the webinar. The distinguished panel of judges reviewed the teen submissions and had the difficult task of naming one teen who would win the grand prize, a new iPad. Lena Hilliard, from the San Diego Chapter, was announced the winner for her sustained leadership during the webinar. Congratulations Lena! JJoA Teens enjoy 2012 Teen Leadership Summit

8

SCOPE 2013

PROGRAMMING LUNCHEON

The 2010-2012 Regional Programming Chairs hosted our traditional Programming Luncheon to recognize outstanding contributions from chapters and regions to our various program thrusts. This high-spirited and highenergy affair highlighted programmatic best practices as we acknowledged chapters who received superior ratings on their program handbooks. The event’s keynote speaker was Dr. Felicia DeHaney, Ph.D., the President and CEO of the National Black Child Development Institute in Washington, DC. Dr. DeHaney provided inspiration to our efforts in raising leaders, as she shared successes of her work in early childhood education and development programs. The celebration concluded with a Jack and Jill rendition of, “Move Your Body.”


Programming Luncheon keynote speaker Dr. DeHaney

HEALTHY LIVING COOKBOOK

As part of its Healthy Living initiative, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. unveiled its first-of-its-kind national publication, the Healthy Living Cookbook, during the National Convention. The cookbook contains healthy recipes submitted by chapters, members, fathers, associates, children and teens from each region. The collaborative cookbook project was developed to address the various factors that lead to childhood obesity and unhealthy lifestyles, and to engage the entire membership to take small, manageable steps to improving their health.

All in all, the Convention was spectacular and designed with our mission in mind to advance youth and develop servant leaders. Special thanks are due to all the volunteers who assisted with the Summit and the planning committee, the 2010-2012 National Program Committee: IPNPD Cheryl Beal Anderson, Chair and Organizer of the Teen Summit, Kimberly Savoy, Michele Courton-Brown, Vara AllenJones, Diedra Fontaine, Candace Berry-Vaughn, Tracy Burton and Shermanita Cotton. Teen Advisors to the planning committee were: Anthony Will (North Oakland Macomb), Kirsten Holsten (Indianapolis) and Xavier Walker (Phoenix).

2012 Teen Leadership Summit

SCOPE 2013

9 


n

l In

y2

1,

id e

tia

Jack and Jill

3

201

P re s

Years 5 7

nc. ,I

Jac k

ll of Amer d Ji ica an

au guratio n Jan

ua

r

2013 Inaugural Weekend Jack and Jill of America, Inc. made history in January 2013 We came to Washington, DC, 1,600 strong to celebrate the historic inauguration of President Barack Obama. It was magical to see our beautiful children dressed to the nines, beaming with pride in the richness of our history and the joy of our future. Inauguration weekend was a wonderful backdrop for a number of significant moments in our history. We were grateful to have the opportunity to recognize the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, the 84th birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the 75th anniversary of our beloved Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

10 

SCOPE 2013


11


12

SCOPE 2013


Power Potential PARENTS EMPOWERING YOUTH

Leadership Development • Cultural Heritage • Community Service

Legislative Advocacy ower and Potential: Empowering Youth Legislative Forum was the theme of this year’s Legislative Forum which was one of the highlights for program and activities at the 2013 Inauguration Celebration of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. in Washington, DC.

P

The forum attracted approximately 300 attendees and featured Representative Marcia L. Fudge (11th District of Ohio), Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus for the 113th Congress, and Representative Gregory W. Meeks (Sixth District of New York), who is a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee serving a 13-year tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives. Both

Congressional members focused on the importance of civic engagement and encouraged our youth to get involved and make a difference in their communities. Jilliene Johnson also of Cleveland, Ohio, who serves as the Education Fellow for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in the office of Congresswoman Fudge, also provided insight and direction as a young leader herself. Her fellowship focuses on health and education activities that serve the underserved communities. One of the aims and objectives outlined in our National Constitution is “To support all national legislation aimed at bettering the conditions of all children”. The Legislative

SCOPE 2013

13


Forum was an opportunity to have our teens and youth take leadership roles and engage in dialogue with congressional leaders about the importance of civic engagement, and they did not disappoint. Eastern Region Teen President Taelor Scott served as the Mistress of Ceremonies. Our Junior Legislative Forum Committee included several teen and youth leaders from across the country and they asked questions such as “What is your best advice to high school

Michaela Lyons, Tanae Otis, Jordan Robinson, Taelor Scott, Zoe Talley, Cameron West, Brina Whitlock, Jenise Williams, Taylor Willis and Trey (Charles III) Willis. The legislative forum was indeed a highlight for the weekend activities, and spoke to the leadership and vision of 23rd National President Tamara Turnley Robinson. The National Legislative Committee spearheaded the event. Members participating included Paula McCann Harris (Chair – South Central Re-

students getting involved in the political process?”; “How do you motivate people to vote for you?; “How important is the vote of one person?”; and “What is the role of the media in shaping political campaign, lobbying for legislative change, and developing public opinion?” The Junior Legislative Forum Committee included Nia Adams, Olivia Clopton-Foster, Julia Clopton-Foster, Sekayi Fraser, Myles Harris, Regina Hooks, Victor Jeffries Leonard,

gion), Yulanda McCarty-Harris (Mid-Western Region), Mondi Kumbula-Fraser (Eastern Region) Karen V. Clopton ( Far West Region) and Sonja W. McIntosh (Mid-Atlantic Region). The National Legislative Committee is also responsible for the On the Hill Summit, which has tentatively been scheduled for September 26-28, 2013 in Washington, D.C. As chapters prepare budgets for 2013-2014, we encourage you to send representatives to this national legislative conference.

SCOPE 2013

14


The National Stage

Spotlight on Jack & Jill

We are proud that Jack and Jill of America programming is now on the national stage, along with recognition by other national organizations.

U.S. Presidential Volunteer Service Award, Partner

March of Dimes

The Black Women’s Agenda

U.S. President’s Challenge, Advocate Partner

Association of Black Cardiologists

American Heart Association

Habitat for Humantiy

National African American Museum of History & Culture

Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is proud to be a collaborating partner with the Black Women’s Agenda, an organization dedicated to advancing and protecting the rights and well-being of Black women and their families worldwide. Jack and Jill, in conjunction with over a dozen other organizations, pledged support for the “Four for 4” initiative – Four People, Four Votes, Four Years and Foresight – to encourage their constituencies to exercise their right to vote on Election Day and beyond.

15

National President Tamara Turnley Robinson with other BWA National Presidents and Board Members meet during the BWA 35th Annual Symposium.

SCOPE 2013

15


SCOPE 2013

Chapter

Programming Excellence P OWER UP to reach our P O TENT IAL Power & Potential: Parents Empowering Youth through Leadership Development, Cultural Heritage and Community Service.

T

he National Programming Thrust is set forth by the National President with the concurrence of the National Executive Board. The National Program Director is responsible for the execution of the National Programming Thrust. The National Programming Thrust is intended to provide emphasis and direct resources to address contemporary issues of the day that impact youth, in addition to other required areas of programming. This is our opportunity to create exciting and new programs to keep our members and children invigorated about their Jack and Jill experience! Under the direction of the National President Tamara Robinson and the National Executive Board, the 2012-2014 national theme is “Power & Potential: Parents Empowering Youth through Leadership Development, Cultural Heritage and Community Service.” Following in the tradition of the Founders, this theme captures National President Robinson’s vision to firmly establish Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated as the premier African American family organization by: • Embracing the power of our role as mothers and parents in raising world leaders; 16

SCOPE 2013

• Embracing the power of our cultural heritage; • Effectively leveraging our power to create positive change in our communities; and • Raising awareness of the organization in the community as parenting experts. It is in this spirit that we continue to forge and cultivate strategic partnerships that reinforce our core values and allow us to best serve our communities. This sustained civic engagement increases our visibility and viability as an organization, and augments a template of achievement for years to come. Our National Executive Board is a team of exceptional mothers who are resolute in developing dynamic and enriching initiatives to address issues related to children’s rights, leadership development, cultural awareness, financial literacy, recreation and philanthropic giving. As your National Program Director it is my pleasure to work with the National Program Committee to provide a guidelines and a strategic road map that will allow out chapters to effectively implement the 2012-2014 Programming Thrusts. We are dedicated to developing our future leaders through powerful and impactful programming.


The 2012-2014 National Program Thrusts are below and there are outstanding examples on the pages that follow. CONGRATULATIONS on capturing the essence, the intent and the beauty of both the vision and the mission of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. We are mothers and parents committed to the idea that life affords no greater responsibility and no greater privilege than the raising of African American children who are extraordinary achievers.

P OWER UP Leadership Development

FOCUS: 7th through 12th POTENTIAL: Complete a minimum of three (3) Jacqueline Moore Bowles (JMB) Leadership Development Modules during the program year. “Legislative” is a required module.

P OWER UP Financial Literacy

FOCUS: Grades 3rd through 12th POTENTIAL: Complete a minimum of three (3) Jack and Jill/Merrill Lynch modules during the program year. “#10. Stop, Shop, Spend” is a required module.

• Capitalize on existing resources by partnering with Private, Non-Profit, and Public Entities.

P OWER UP Cultural Heritage

FOCUS: Any Age Group or Chapter Wide POTENTIAL: At least… • One healthy living activity during the program year. • One activity that will increase awareness of what HBCUs have to offer, the role they have played in our history and why we need to support them

P OWER UP Community Service

FOCUS: All POTENTIAL: 100% participation in a collaborative community service experience benefiting the Boys and Girls Club, the March of Dimes and the Thompson Quintuplets through our fundraising and local community service activities.

P OWER UP Leadership in Action (LIA)

FOCUS: 7th through 12th POTENTIAL: LIA is designed to empower and encourage teens to take the leadership skills they have learned through their Jack and Jill experience (Leadership and Financial Literacy modules) and apply them to their communities. Participate in an activity of applied leadership skills.

P OWER UP STE[+A]M

(Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math)

FOCUS: Any Age/Grade Group POTENTIAL: Participate in an activity that emphasizes a STE[+A]M focus area meeting one or more of the following goals. • Expose and promote youth to pursue STE[+A]M career fields. • EARLY AGE EXPOSURE to STE[+a]M focused activities. • Help youth to develop self-confidence around scientific/technical subject matters. • Promote creative thought and innovation through education, preparation and engaging activities/events.

Gladys M. Henderson National Program Director

17


SCOPE 2013

Chapter

Programming Excellence

Civic / Community Service “Not everybody can be famous but everybody

opportunity to focus our community service efforts in

can be great because greatness is determined

the nations capital, with service day projects across

by service... You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.” —ML King Jr.

J

In the Mighty Mid-Atlantic region, under the direction

ack & Jill of America, Incorporated is dedicated

of Regional Director Nicole Martin, we continue

to developing leaders that will affect the world.

to support the national theme and objectives

For the past 75 years, Jack and Jill has educated,

by “empowering our youth through leadership

enlightened & encouraged our children to serve,

development, cultural heritage and community

so their efforts will last into perpetuity. Community

service”. We are moving on with our Habitat project

Service is the perennial thrust of our organization and

and fully engaged with our local branches of the

central to our programing. “Jacks & Jills” participate

March of Dimes (MOD), with almost every chapter

in service projects on the national and regional

participating in a MOD activity/fundraiser. The

level, giving thousands of collective hours across the

March of Dimes has a special place in the heart

country. For their service, Jack and Jill recognizes our

of Mid-Atlantic Region, as the Fleming family of

children with the Jack and Jill Youth Service Award.

the South Charlotte Chapter served as the 2012

Every youth across the country that complete at least

MOD National Ambassador Family. The 2012-

25 hours of documented community service receives

2013 programing year found us donating uniforms,

a certificate.

backpacks and food at our fall Workday Clusters.

Nationally, we continue to partner with Habitat for Humanity through “Rebuild America” where we advocate for housing for the needy, agreeing with Habitat that decent housing is a human right. We are also extending our efforts on behalf of the March of Dimes as we raise funds and awareness

This spring our children stocked the Charleston, SC teacher’s closet providing needed supplies and our teens will continue our legacy of service by collecting baby items for the VA Branch of the March Of Dimes. Ever forward, working, living and playing together,

March of Dimes insures that all babies, regardless

Tracy Burton

of circumstance, are ensured a healthy start in

National Program Committee

regarding infant health issues. Our work with the

life. In January our “Pink & Blue Ball” provided an 18

the district.

SCOPE 2013

Mid-Atlantic Region


Civic / Community Service

Atlantic City, NJ

Eastern Region

This Christmas Season the Atlantic City Chapter honored our blessings by sharing with others less fortunate. The Programming Committee hosted an afternoon of “Celebrating Ourselves and Honoring Our Blessings”. We enjoyed a scrumptious lunch while the children reflected on their past year’s accomplishments and goals for the coming year. We brought over 121 pounds of non-pariable foods in support of the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, filled over 20 shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child Samaritan’s Purse and collected 17 new unwrapped toys for the Atlantic City PAL Toy Drive. The Atlantic City, NJ Chapter is committed to the enrichment of our children and our community.

Boston, MA

Eastern Region

The talented and tenacious Teens of the Boston Chapter of Jack and Jill are committed to service in support of children and families in their community . In November 2012, they donated volunteer time to the Greater Boston Food Bank where they inspected, sorted and boxed food for thousands of Boston’s homeless and hungry families. On December 9th, 2012 they led a fundraising raffle as part of the Boston Chapter’s annual holiday party where they raised several hundred dollars in support of the Jack and Jill Foundation. Our teens are demonstrating their leadership abilities and their roles as socially responsible citizens.

SCOPE 2013

19


Bucks County, PA

Eastern Region

On January 21st, 2013 nearly 60 Bucks County Chapter members and children participated in a day of service in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We began our day with an interfaith ceremony at Second Baptist Church of Doylestown with remarks given by the pastor, a local Rabbi and the school superintendent; culminating with the Hopkins sisters, Jack and Jill members, singing beautiful songs of inspiration. The children filled over 400 breakfast bags for needy senior citizens throughout Philadelphia, constructed 24 blankets for the elderly and homeless, created uplifting greeting cards and boxed over 200 spaghetti meals for a hospice shelter. The teens sorted and packaged several hundred coats, gloves and scarves for those less fortunate. Our community service partner, Christ Home for Children, which cares for needy children, also joined the Bucks County Chapter. The phenomenal day ended with lunch while watching the Presidential inauguration.

Buffalo, NY

Eastern Region

The Buffalo, New York chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated held its first Pink, White and Blue Inaugural Ball on Saturday, January 26, 2013. This community service event was designed to teach children ages 3-8 years old about the Obama Family and the presidency, as they played games enjoyed face-painting and fellowshipped. The children received special treats with the guest appearances of Buffalo mayor Byron Brown, first lady Michelle Brown and Yo-Yo the Clown. All attendees received a Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated-Buffalo Chapter canvas bag with wellness materials and craft items. There was a life-sized cut-out of President Barack Obama and the children were photographed with him. Buffalo chapter Beaux served as ushers and the Teen Executives volunteered at the food stations and craft tables. Collaborative partners included Senses Village, the March of Dimes and the mayor’s office.

20 

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Burlington-Willingboro, NJ

Eastern Region

The Burlington-Willingboro Chapter celebrated the 75th Anniversary of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated on January 21, 2013 by focusing on the organization’s legacy of service to families and the community. Since this day was a day of service in recognition of Rev.Dr. Martin Luther King’s Birthday, it was fitting that the chapter spent the day serving more than 100 at risk families a spaghetti dinner in cooperation with SisterHood, Incorporated SisterHood, Incorporated is a Burlington City community based organization which provides comprehensive programs in the areas of counseling, job training, and literarcy. During the commemorative memorial service, attendees learned about the history of Jack and Jill, and its legacy of service to African-American children , families and the community. The chapter’s 75th Anniversary celebration also fulfilled its goal of feeding at least 100 people as part of the Eastern Region’s Community Service Project.

Columbia, MD

Eastern Region

The Columbia, Maryland Chapter’s commitment to developing compassionate leaders of tomorrow was evidence on Saturday, November 17th, as our Teens gathered at River Hill High School for a day of community service. With 44 pounds of food donations gathered by all age groups, our teens packed nutritious lunches for guests of Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center, a local homeless shelter and crisis intervention facility. The teens served and interacted with residents shaking hands and having light conversation. In addition, the teens planned activities and provided reading sources for the children. One teen shared the following: “It was truly a life changing experience. To see so many people who live a few blocks from us; who look like us, yet they can’t support their families. However, that’s where we come in to play. If more people volunteered to donate daily or weekly, maybe we could start to eliminate hunger.”

SCOPE 2013

21


Essex Hudson, NJ

Eastern Region

The Essex Hudson chapter continues to broaden its relationship with New Jersey SEEDS (Scholars, Educators, Excellence, Dedication, Success), a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships, training, clothing and a stable foundation for success to motivated, high-achieving, lowincome students. Over the past several years, we have created a mutually rewarding partnership that continues to positively impact deserving children in our community. This program year, our chapter expanded upon the successful Adopt-A-Family community service effort started by the Senior Teen group in 2011. The Adopt-A-Family committee, including members of the teen group and our Community Service chairperson, worked with NJ SEEDs to identify four families in need during the holiday season. On Friday, December 7, 2012, chapter members and their families gathered for a Party with a Purpose, a night of food, fellowship and the opportunity to wrap holiday gifts filled with toys, clothing and other desired items for NJ SEEDs families.

Greater Union County, NJ

Eastern Region

Service continues to reign supreme for Greater Union County Chapter (GUCC). In December, GUCC partnered with the Urban League of Union County to give back in a meaningful way. The community service committee worked closely with the Urban League to identify two families to adopt during the holiday season. Using monies raised via a Lord & Taylor fundraiser, the chapter was able to purchase gifts from each family member’s wish list. On December 10th the Urban League hosted a dinner for both families, as well as members of GUCC and other local organizations. As a result of our involvement, a local media station filmed the event and interviewed our children about the meaning of the holiday season. It was gratifying to fellowship with the families and personally present them with their holiday gifts. More importantly, the dinner afforded our children yet another opportunity to experience the impact of serving others. 22 

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Mid-Hudson Valley, NY

Eastern Region

As the Mid-Hudson Valley chapter commemorates 20 years of service to the Mid-Hudson Valley community, we have purposefully committed ourselves to celebrate, not by indulging in self-congratulations, but by giving back. To this end, we endeavor to engage in 20 community service projects during the program year. To highlight a few: Members and children stuffed backpacks for the Christmas in August program, which provides school supplies to children heading back to school who might not otherwise have the resources. Light The Night Walk was spearheaded and organized by our teens to raise money and awareness for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. They raised $12,000! At every mothers meeting, group activity and chapter activity we are collecting food items and donating to the Westchester Food Bank in an effort to fight hunger in our community.

National Harbor, MD

Eastern Region

A mock civil rights march set the stage for the National Harbor Chapter’s historically relevant event celebrating the lives and achievements of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and President Barack Obama at the Le Detroit Baptist Church Community Center. Our youth proudly picked up signs with words such as freedom, justice, equality and “yes we can” to commemorate African American history during an interactive presentation for all age groups led by Culture Kingdom Kids. The afternoon included storytelling, an original art project, songs, dance and an inaugural celebration party in honor of the First Family of the United States. To help those in need while also supporting the Jack and Jill Eastern Region service initiative, our families graciously donated canned goods that were given to Shepherd’s Cove Shelter in Capitol Heights, Maryland. The welcome message was provided by Prince George’s County Vice Chairman Obie Patterson, District 8, Maryland. SCOPE 2013

23


Newton, MA

Eastern Region

The Newton Chapter is committed to executing impactful community service programs and incorporating our children. On December 1, 2012, at the Boys and Girls Club in Dorchester, the Newton Chapter enthusiastically executed an innovative program, “Shop, Carry, and Go,” an indoor ‘free cycle’ event, enabling families from local homeless shelters and the Boston community to select clothing, small appliances, furniture, toys, and coats donated by Anton’s Cleaners. Chapter families donated the majority of the items, and over 100 people attended the event. The Men’s Auxiliary was instrumental in making this event special for all who attended. Attendees received holiday red bags, donated by Target, to carry items home, and many received raffled items, including $25.00 gift cards, home starter kits, a life size teddy bear, a large remote control truck, and a rocking horse, which were donated by Home Depot. Many of the attendees left with tears of joy.

North Jersey, NJ

Eastern Region

North Jersey Chapter programming has highlighted many of the national programming thrusts. The family day picnic featured a Carole Robertson observance lead by senior teens. Senior teen leadership development has also been evident in its community service activities. For instance, Senior Teens shared in Holiday spirit with the Residents and Staff of Sierra House an East Orange non-profit committed to helping young ‘at risk’ women prepare to live independent successful lives. Junior Teen mothers lead an overnight retreat that incorporated an introduction to leadership opportunities available in Senior Teens. The chapter Christmas party began with families attending a performance and Q and A with musicians from Juilliard. The chapter honored the MLK day of service by volunteering at a local library. Group programs have addressed financial literacy through experiential learning that providing a hands-on approach to money management. All groups completed an age-appropriate legislative module designed by a chapter mother.

24

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

P hiladelphia, PA

Eastern Region

In recognition of Martin Luther King Day 2013, the Philadelphia Chapter of Jack and Jill engaged in a handson service activity at Chestnut Hill Meals on Wheels (CHMOW). CHMOW is a community based, non profit orgranization devoted to serving fresh, nutritious meals for those who are confined due to age or health situations. Chapter volunteers from our youngest Nestling group to our Hill Top teen group donated and assembled non-perishable, emergency care packages for delivery to program participants for use in emergency situations like Hurricane Sandy. Mothers and children made joyful notes to be placed in each package to uplift those who were to receive the meals. It was most impressive to see more than 35 Jack and Jill children, from the Philadelphia Chapter, working together as volunteers on this day that is dedicated to the memory of Dr. King and his commitment to serving community.

Pittsburgh, PA

Eastern Region

The Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack &Jill (teen chapter) has become very interested and dedicated to addressing social issues that plague the area by participating in a variety of community service projects. On September 21, 2012, our teen chapter volunteered at the Greater Pittsburgh Food bank, a local ball recipient, as part of the Fall Food Share Day. During this service project, our teens spent their afternoon touring the food bank and learning about the wonderful services the food bank provides. The younger group of children engaged in activities such as making place mats for senior citizens and watching an educational video on an important social issue: hunger in America. While there, the teens donated the healthy snack options that were assembled snack bags for various after-school programs. The donations didn’t stop there! Our teens also donated school supplies that were packed into backpacks for deserving students.

SCOPE 2013

25 


Prince George’s County, MD

Eastern Region

On September 29 and 30, 2012, the Prince George’s County Chapter hosted a Rock the Vote weekend in honor of Carole Robertson. On September 29th, middle schoolers were invited to a Rock the Vote party, complete with a DJ and gaming.

The central event on the 30th featured a story-time presented by Councilwoman Ingrid Turner, of books with election themes, including A Duck for President and Madam President. Participants were guided through craft activities and created cards encouraging adults to vote in the election. Delegate Marvin Holmes instructed participants on the voter registration process and helped them to register for a Mock Election. Junior and senior teens learned the fundamentals of debate in a workshop exploring issues espoused by the Presidential candidates. They also tabulated the ballots. The events were attended by members of the Prince George’s County, National Harbor, Southern Maryland, Arundel on the Bay, and Washington, D.C. Chapters.

Queens, NY

Eastern Region

The Queens Chapter celebrated its 60th Anniversary by hosting a Diamond Gala at the magnificent Gotham Hall in New York City. Over 400 celebrants including Queens’ moms, associates, dads, teens and members from 10 sister chapters came together in formal attire to raise monies for G.E.M.S, AALCLD and Jack and Jill Foundation. Past, current and future leaders who have made a positive difference in the Queens community were also honored. The Queens chapter continued celebrating by feeding more than100 persons at a local food pantry, hosting a prayer vigil and donating clothing, toiletries, food and gift cards to victims of Hurricane Sandy. Chapter teens and moms volunteered locally and nationally to encourage people to vote and the chapter is currently planning a leadership development forum for local teens. Queens’ legacy of community service continues at 60 years and beyond. To whom much is given, much is required – Luke 12:48 26

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Rochester, NY

Eastern Region

The Rochester Chapter does a variety of activities to culturally enrich our youth and give back to our community. The twixt teens and young teens, as well as the moms, did an activity in which they created a family tree. After scouring through the census records, and discussing family facts with their mom, they transferred what they found onto their family tree and presented it to their peers. Next, our teens made lunches at The Ronald McDonald House. The RMDH provides a place to stay for the families of critically ill children that are not from the area. Lastly, the chapter celebrated MLK Day with a day of service at Foodlink. Foodlink is the Feeding America regional food bank. The chapter put together over 200 lunches for the back pack program, bagged three crates of apple to be donate to local food pantries and donated over 77 pounds of food!

Suffolk County, NY

Eastern Region

In honor of our 50th anniversary, the Suffolk County Chapter has initiated a yearlong program of community service. Through “75 Acts of Kindness,” leadership, learning and service we have engaged in projects which focus on ongoing needs, such as food, clothing and toy drives, and others which emerged in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Sandy. Our teens have set a goal of 50 hours of service to celebrate 50 years. More than half way to their goal, the teens have been stuffing backpacks with school supplies for children in the community, organizing chapter-wide turkey, clothing and toy drives or participating in community services activities in Washington D.C. during the Inauguration and Leadership Summit. We have embraced a global perspective as our 7-9 year olds have adopted an orphanage/ school in rural Haiti. They have pledged an amount to work towards donating to their Haitian “school” for supplies.

SCOPE 2013

27


Washington, DC

Eastern Region

The Washington DC Chapter has embraced the Eastern Region’s efforts to address hunger by engaging all age groups in multiple projects. The chapter is preparing meals, serving meals and raising funds to purchase food for meals. For the President’s National Day of Service, which honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, the Chapter continued to promote the Eastern Region service initiative with an “Inaugural Weekend Cookie Bake for the Homeless and Hungry”. Many organizations offer food service, however, homemade dessert isn’t usually part of their meal and it’s truly a special treat when it is! Families in every age group got together to bake batches of Pillsbury Sugar Cookies. Over 1000 cookies were baked and delivered to organizations supporting the homeless and hungry in our city -- So Others Might Eat, Thrive DC, Martha’s Table, and New Community for Children.

Westchester, NY

Eastern Region

The Westchester Chapter rose to the call for Community Service in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, a tropical cyclone that devastated areas of the Northeast in late October 2012. Many of our families, like others in the Eastern Region, were without heat and power for over two weeks but when called to help those even less fortunate in The Rockaways, our chapter responded across all age groups to the needs of the “Community and Family Headstart” organization. Our Senior Teens rallied to bring a donations blankets, diapers, paper products and non perishable food to their November meeting. We have 54 senior teens and they donated enough to fill two minivans. Our Group 4 youth changed their monthly activity to support The Rockaways. They made “boxes of love” filled with a letter of support, school supplies and treats for the children in at the “Community and Family Headstart” program. Group 1, 2 and 3 mothers and youth were asked to donate gently used coats, clothing and new pajamas at our November Mother’s Meeting. Our mothers helped to load and deliver the donations.

28

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Inglewood, CA

Far West Region

The Inglewood Chapter proudly hosts the “Spirit of Giving” event, held annually in December, which strengthens our partnership with the Midnight Mission Family Housing Program. The Midnight Mission offers a bridge to self-sufficiency for homeless women and children through counseling, education, training, and job placement. In addition to our annual fundraiser, the “Spirit of Giving” is another attempt to help the children and families at the Mission rebuild their lives. Toiletry items are brought to the event and our Teens assemble necessity bags to donate to the Midnight Mission, consisting of toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, socks, soap, and mouthwash. A bountiful holiday breakfast is prepared and served by the Father’s Auxiliary. The event includes arts and crafts activities and holiday themed performances presented by our children’s Groups. The Spirit of Giving fosters family fellowship and fun while encouraging our youth to embrace the true ‘spirit’ of giving.

Las Vegas, NV

Far West Region

The teens in the Las Vegas, NV Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, pitched in at the Homes for Heros project on Saturday, November 3, 2012. The teens helped scrape and paint, clear debris, pull weeds, and tear down a shed to make the home and yard of a deceased army veteran’s wife beautiful.

SCOPE 2013

29


Pasadena, CA

Far West Region

As part of the Jack & Jill of America National Day of Service, the Pasadena Chapter mothers and children served at Harambee Preparatory School in Pasadena, Saturday, January 19. Founded in 1995 by Harambee Christian Ministries on “blood corner”, which had the highest daytime crime rate (drive-by shootings and drug deals) in Southern California, the Prep School brought peace and change to the community through Christian ministries and education. Harambee” means “Let’s get together and push” in Swahili. Chapter members spent the day cleaning, weeding, racking, and mowing the prayer garden, school grounds, and lawns. Children from every age group, group leaders, and new prospective families participated. Harlan Redmond, Executive Director at Harambee, wrote “We are so thankful for your support in what we do. It was a joy getting to meet all the parents who modeled for their kids the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community.”

P hoenix, AZ

Far West Region

In the spirit of the National Theme, Power and Potential: Parents Empowering Youth through Leadership Development, Cultural Heritage and Community Service: the Guys and Dolls, Age Group 12 -14, of the Phoenix Chapter received an opportunity, January 5, 2013, to serve the clients of St. Vincent DePaul, Watkins Campus in South Phoenix. They selected from a variety of projects. Some made Valentine’s Day decorations to adorn the dining hall which feeds homeless and poor families; others organized gifts the organization uses for their young school-aged clients for birthdays and homework completion awards. The children of the Phenomenal Phoenix Chapter continue to learn the gift of giving…perhaps it comes in the form of bringing a smile to a child’s face or inspiration to someone in need. The core values of JJOA through service to our community are alive and well in the Valley of the Sun!

30

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Pomona Area, CA

Far West Region

Community service continues to be a major driver for the Pomona Area Chapter. Our service activities include collecting and distributing clothing for the homeless, supporting a local women’s shelter, stocking a food pantry and gathering school supplies for needy students.

San Diego, CA

Far West Region

Enthusiastic about embracing Jack and Jill’s national theme, the San Diego Chapter has been diligent in our efforts to support the empowerment of youth through leadership, cultural heritage, and community service. The chapter has sponsored fundraisers such as the pancake breakfast held at Applebee’s, where the proceeds were used to support the Sickle Cell Foundation in efforts to send children with sickle cell to Camp Moon, where 10-18 year olds participate in all sorts of activities and are provided with onsite doctors and nurses. In addition, a roller-skating fundraiser was planned to support Jack and Jill Foundation. All of the children also participated in the annual MLK Parade held in downtown San Diego and the chapter partnered with the North County San Diego chapter, which proved to be a huge success. A perfect sunny 75 degree day, the kids and parents represented the chapters proudly in their pink and blue.

SCOPE 2013

31


Santa Clarita / Antelope Valley, CA

Far West Region

In October, more than 20 chapter mothers and fathers participated for the 5th year in a row in Make A Difference Day. The SCV/AV chapter assisted by beautifying the La Mesa Middle School. For the month of February, in keeping with the spirit of Black History Month, Groups 1 – 5 attended the Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles. The children and teens were able to participate in age appropriate activites and “walk the red carpet.”

In April, we will host an All White Affair where guests are encouraged to wear all white. Casino Night, dancing, and a silent auction are just a few of the activities calendared for the evening. The proceeds from this event will benefit Penny Lane Family Center and Jack and Jill of America Foundation.

Seattle, WA

Far West Region

Fueled by First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative, the Seattle Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated successfully launched its 1st Annual Holiday “Sneaker 100” drive to benefit children in foster care within the Greater Puget Sound. This annual drive strives to ensure that every child in foster care has shoes that fit properly and are free from holes and extensive wear and tear. Through our partnership with local charity, Treehouse for Kids, our chapters Community Service Committee and Teens group we were able to collect over 60 new and gently used sneakers, in all sizes and styles for boys and girls.

32

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Charleston, SC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Charleston Chapter of Jack and Jill of America celebrated the MLK Day with a parade in Charleston. The pink and blue float carried approximately 20 children from Buttons & Bows, Shirts & Skirts, Juniors, Preteens, and lots of Jack and Jill Dads. The Graduating teens led the way in the MLK parade in a truck up ahead. In accordance with our National Program Thrust, Aim for Youth Leadership Development, Charleston Chapter completed their day in a MLK Speak Out. The MLK speak Out, took place at Charleston YWCA and engaged Charleston area middle school and High school teens on topics from Racism to Community Service. The program provided music, food, drinks and gifts to all in attendance. This 2013 MLK Day initiative was outstanding, energetic and inspirational to the preteens that attended for the first time. The Charleston Chapter looks forward to Martin Luther King Day in 2014.

Charlotte, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

Breakfast with Santa is one of the 55-year old Charlotte Chapter’s signature chapter events centered on reinforcing literacy in schools serving at-risk communities and families. This year we selected 27 families from Reid Park Academy, where we were able to impact the lives of 117 people to include 59 students, 25 siblings, 23 mothers, 3 grandmothers, and 7 fathers. Many parents shared with us that the hand selected gifts will provide a special Christmas that otherwise not have occurred. In addition to providing a gift to each family member and serving a nutritional, hot breakfast, our chapter also provided crafts and books for the children. In the spring, the students will be awarded uniforms along with a cookie social. School Principal Mary A. Sturge, Ed.D, was very engaged and excited about the partnership opportunities between our chapter and her school. We are looking forward to continuing to build strong relationships that are an extension of our organization’s core family values.

SCOPE 2013

33


Columbia, SC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The focus for the Columbia chapter has been on community service at all grade levels. In September our teens sponsored the chapter’s first Pancake Breakfast fundraising activity to benefit the March of Dimes. Children and mothers from all age groups participated and helped raise approximately $1200. For the third year, our chapter joined forces with Richland County School District One and the City of Columbia to support the 2012 Palmetto Health Foundation Walk for Life/Race for Life to fight for a cure! We solicited walkers and runners to participate in the Walk for Life/Race for Life, raised funds to support the campaign, and provided hours of community-service managing the Richland One Walk for Life/Race for Life Water Station; designed to provide refreshing water for the walkers and runners midway the 3.1 mile walk/race. Other community service projects include the voter registration drive and the Harvest Hope Food Bank food drive.

Greenville, SC

Mid-Atlantic Region

In December 2012, the Greenville Chapter participated in a chapter-wide Christmas Service Project which proudly adopted the South Fant School of Early Learning which consists of mostly African American and Hispanic preschool kids. The children of Jack and Jill generously donated their time and resources during the Christmas Holiday season to ensure that needy children did not go without. This year each child from the from the School received a winter coat, gloves, hat, clothes, shoes and a toy. The Greenville Chapter is committed to activities which focus on improving the lives of children as we work, play and live together.

James River, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

We truly embodied the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy of service during our annual MLK Day service project. Our combined age groups and parents volunteered at the Hilliard House, a program that assists homeless women and their children to build their capacity to live productively within the community. We spent the day helping to improve the conditions of the facility by organizing a very chaotic closet and donated enough clothing to completely fill the closet with up to date clothing items for the moms and children. At the end of the day, the closet looked like a clothing boutique. We also enhanced the tutoring room with a mural, created amazing arts and craft project kits with instructions, supplies and sample projects, cleaned and filled the toddler area with newly donated toys and donated books for children all of ages to enjoy. Our teens also hosted business attire drives. 34 

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Midlothian, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Midlothian Chapter participated in the Historic Evergreen Cemetery Clean Up Tour as a rewarding community service event. Founded in 1891 and opened with no means for perpetual care, the historic African -American cemetery was at some point left to be overgrown by vines and weedy trees. Groups of Midlothian Jack and Jillers teamed up to pull weeds, rake, cut trees, and haul debris . The cemetery is famously known as the final resting place of many of Richmond’s leading African-American citizens, including Maggie Lena Walker, John Mitchell, Jr., and Rev. Andrew Bowler. The future of Evergreen Cemetery received a boost from its past in a March 2012 ceremony that unveiled a historical marker at the site.

Norfolk, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Norfolk Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia for our 2nd annual “PJs for the Holidays” sponsored by Pajama Jams. Pajama Jams is the start-up nonprofit organization that one of our members, Erika Tucker, created after years of doing a successful community service project to teach her own children the meaning of gratefulness by donating warm, snuggly pajamas to children in need. She invited our chapter to join her family’s efforts and the project has turned into a movement. Over 600 pairs of new pajamas were collected and distributed to children from nine different Boys & Girls Clubs in the area on December 14, 2012. Our chapter enjoyed helping the children choose a new pair of pajamas to take home. We’re excited about this new partnership and are planning to bless even more kids with pajamas next year!

SCOPE 2013

35


Portsmouth, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

Portsmouth Chapter Teen Achievers embraced the lessons of service and sacrifice through a variety of volunteer opportunities. Their “Season of Service” kicked-off in September with school supply donations to the Boys and Girls Club of Hodges Manor Elementary School. In October they distributed GOTV literature during the Shriner’s Annual Fish Bowl Parade and assisted Virginia Living Museum staff with Halloween-themed activities for children. In November during Family Volunteer Day, they helped pack over 16,000-lbs of food for distribution to nonprofit organizations. Taking action again on Thanksgiving Day, they fed the hungry at a local church and distributed blankets to the homeless. Continuing the holiday spirit, teens wrapped gifts for local children attending our Annual Breakfast with Santa and during MLK’s Day of Service, they assembled care packages for senior citizens. Power & Potential! Our teens are leading us in action, embracing their cultural heritage, and humbling themselves as community servants.

Spartanburg, SC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The “2012 Evening With Santa” delivered early Christmas joy to the eyes of more than 150 children and parents of the Early Learning Center at Park Hills. While the kids enjoyed their personal time with Santa, others practiced arts and crafts, watched a video or enjoyed milk and cookies. Each child had an opportunity to take a special picture with Santa and received a personalized frame for their picture. Parents and children waited anxiously for door prize giveaways: bicycles, scooters, meal gift certificates and toys and games. The evening was enjoyed by everyone including the children, Teens and mothers of the Spartanburg Chapter of Jack and Jill.

36

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Winston-Salem, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Winston-Salem Chapter partnered with Family Services, Inc for yet another year of community service projects around the holidays. Family Services is a non-profit organization that serves families in need in the Winston-Salem area with a similar mission of developing “Strong families in Healthy Communities�. Jack and Jill children of all ages worked beside their moms and dads to assemble and distribute Thanksgiving boxes to 31 deserving families. The senior teens showed remarkable leadership in seeking funding to purchase toys, books, clothing, and other essential items to brighten the lives of the children of these same families for Christmas. Finally, our families donated numerous teddy bears that were then sent to the children affected by Hurricane Sandy in the Northeast. The Winston-Salem Chapter continues its commitment to developing future leaders with a strong sense of service to the community.

Akron, OH

Mid-Western Region

On January 12 and February 9th, the Akron Chapter partnered with the Akron Canton Regional Food Bank to pack over 36,000 pounds of meats for families in need. Over the past several years, our Chapter has worked with the Food Bank for our Martin Luther King Day of Service project. Our Mothers are aware that 1 in 4 children struggles with hunger in the community, therefore we understand the importance to get our own children involved to understand how blessed they are to have the ability to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner on a daily basis. It was a proud moment seeing our Jack and Jill children working so hard to make sure that the work was done correctly. We had a friendly competition amongst our members. However, in the end the true winners are those in need.

SCOPE 2013

37 


Central Kentucky, KY

Mid-Western Region

The Central Kentucky Chapter is committed to teaching our children the importance of community service; giving back in order to empower its citizens and to show compassion to those less fortunate. Each year the children are involved in various community service projects, however, our annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser has become our premier, chapterwide event. Now in its fifth successful year of being held, the event highlights an opportunity for Lexington area families to share Christmas wish lists and take photos with an AfricanAmerican Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. Held at an upscale local restaurant, chapter mothers and our children serve, entertain, and spread some Christmas cheer to our guests. Proceeds from ticket sales and the accompanying silent auction held during this wonderful event benefit the Jack and Jill Foundation, the Kentucky Organ Donation Association, and Habitat for Humanity.

Circle City, I N

Mid-Western Region

On January 12 and February 9th, the Akron Chapter partnered with the Akron Canton Regional Food Bank to pack over 36,000 pounds of meats for families in need. Over the past several years, our Chapter has worked with the Food Bank for our Martin Luther King Day of Service project. Our Mothers are aware that 1 in 4 children struggles with hunger in the community, therefore we understand the importance to get our own children involved to understand how blessed they are to have the ability to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner on a daily basis. It was a proud moment seeing our Jack and Jill children working so hard to make sure that the work was done correctly. We had a friendly competition amongst our members. However, in the end the true winners are those in need.

38 

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Cleveland, OH

Mid-Western Region

The Cleveland Chapter of Jack & Jill of America’s 3rd and 4th grade activity group participated in an activity to educate them about the Presidential Inauguration. Their day began with a litany of activities symbolizing the opening worship service of the nation’s leaders followed by a mock processional to the Capitol. The students took part in a question and answer session about the duties of President and Vice-President as they assumed the roles of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. A fourth grader and third grader respectively were both sworn in and recited their individual oaths of office. In place of an inaugural speech, each child completed and read an essay entitled, “If I were President, I would...” A celebratory inaugural luncheon was enjoyed by all. After the meal, each child designed their own Presidential seal and the festivities closed with a parade showcasing their seals.

Detroit, MI

Mid-Western Region

The All Group Holiday Activity supported the Detroit Chapter’s adopted charitable organization, Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO), and their Christmas Adopt-A-Family program. Wish lists for seven families supported by NSO were provided. The theme was “Making a Child’s Holiday Brighter”. Each group was assigned age appropriate responsibilities for tasks associated with planning the activity. The activity was from 9:00 - 1:30 pm. Groups 1 and 2 created ornaments and cards for the families. Group 3 fill the food baskets for each family. Groups 4 and 5 shopped. Gifts were separated and wrapped by our members. A short program was Sheila Clay, Executive Director of NSO thanked the membership of the Detroit Chapter Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated for their generosity. She was overwhelmed to see over 80 members working together to organize the presents for the families. She was most appreciative for the Christmas trees. SCOPE 2013

39


Gary Northwest, I N

Mid-Western Region

Sojourner Truth House (STH) is a community resource and day shelter for homeless and at-risk women and children founded in 1997 to meet the needs of the underserved in Gary, Indiana. Women who come to STH are often caught in a cycle of addiction, mental illness and poverty. Many arrive hungry, physically and emotionally fragile and weak in spirit. Some have never experienced the nurturing that it takes to live independently or interdependently. STH works to help each woman glimpse how she might move in the direction of self–sustainability. The Tween group provided support to the clients of this organization by packaging personal hygiene items like lotion, soap, bath gel, shampoo and conditioner in holiday gift bags. Working together, the Tweens assembled over 60 bags to share with the families in the STH program. Our young people continue to demonstrate the importance of leadership and service to the community.

Greater Lansing, MI

Mid-Western Region

In the spirit of the holiday season the Greater Lansing Chapter’s youth in grades 5-12, along with Mothers, Associates and Jack and Jill Alumni presented “Operation Holiday Cheer”. This event was held at the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing on December 19, 2012. The children appreciated an evening of arts and crafts and healthy snacks. The teens displayed their leadership and artistic skills as they led the activities. Some children had their nails or faces painted while others enjoyed painting T-shirts and other crafts. The children also learned how to design and make their own unique buttons. It was a fantastic event, as our youth gave their time and talents to the community youth. Operation Holiday Cheer was a great success, the children and leaders of the Boys and Girls Club felt special and valued by the presence of the Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated Greater Lansing Chapter.

40

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Indianapolis, I N

Mid-Western Region

Milkwaukee, W I

Mid-Western Region

The Indianapolis Chapter celebrated our 13th Annual Breakfast with Santa with nearly 200 guests from the community, including sister chapter Circle City. Adults, children, teens, and tweens dressed in their finest Christmas apparel to usher in the season with fun and laughter! Following a delicious breakfast, guests participated in carnivalthemed activities, crafts, and dance contest. Jack and Jill teens, along with students from two area high schools, earned community service hours by volunteering at the event. The highlight of the morning was our presentation of gifts to local charities, Danny’s Closet of Hope and School on Wheels. Attendees (adults and children) donated gently used men’s business suits, dress socks, Dr. Seuss books, and school supplies to these worthy organizations. Additionally, our ad hoc fundraising committee sponsored a raffle from which proceeds were donated to Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Incorporated.

n December, the Milwaukee Chapter teen group visited the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Aurora Sinai Medical Center. Our teens learned that Milwaukee has a very high infant mortality rate, especially in the African American population where the rate is triple that of whites (one of the worst disparities in the nation). To improve the statistics in our community, presenters discussed the importance of affordable health care and community support through funding and teaching. A portion of the visit specifically focused on teenage mothers and other risk factors that contribute to premature delivery. The teens learned about the work of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, social workers and others in the NICU and what roles these various groups of personnel perform. Each of our teens donated baby blankets and sleepers. In addition, they presented a $200 check to purchase transportation vouchers for mothers to visit their babies in the hospital. SCOPE 2013

41


North Shore, IL

Mid-Western Region

In November 2012, the North Shore Chapter Teens demonstrated their readiness to lead for the Feed My Starving Children organization. The entire group in a two hour period packed 23, 544 meals=109 boxes. That is enough to feed 65 children for a year! The food was packed and shipped to Burundi, Africa. The Republic of Burundi is one of the five poorest countries in the world and surrounded by turmoil. It is bordered by Rwanda to the north, Tanzania to the east and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. Burundi has limited access to education and is suffering the effects of HIV/Aids. It is a country steeped in warfare and corruption. it was a blessing to be able to provide the nutritious Manna Packs to this country’s children! Joining the teens for this activity were members from Groups 2, 3 and 4, as well as teen alumnae.

South Suburban Chicago, IL The South Suburban Chicago children of Group 3 served dinner at a local PADS shelter, which houses single men every Sunday. This site was chosen in an effort to reduce the possibility of the children running into classmates. The mothers of the October activity prepared hot meals at home and then transported the food to the shelter. Upon washing their hands, the children suited up with hair nets, plastic gloves and aprons. They dished all of the plates and served the drinks to their ‘guests’. One objective of the activity was to humanize homeless men in need. This activity required the children to go beyond making a simple donation but instead have direct interaction with those receiving their assistance. They experienced firsthand, individuals in their community who are homeless and hungry. The children learned how they can impact someone’s life by sharing their time and resources with those less fortunate. 42

SCOPE 2013

Mid-Western Region


Civic / Community Service

St. Louis, MO

Mid-Western Region

The Jack & Jill St. Louis Chapter Community Service Project gave, worked and honored Dr. Martin Luther King. All age groups collaborated together with the community to give back for our MLK Project. Our MLK was not a day but a weekend of service. Every age group had a clothes drive. We are celebrating our 65th Anniversary, within our chapter, and our goal was to collect 65 bags of clothes to give to Homeless Veterans Families. We collected 65+ bags of clothes “WE ARE PROUD”. Not only did we have a clothes drive but we also instituted a sock drive. Every mother was responsible for bringing a pair(s) of the socks to our January Mother’s Meeting. So our mothers and our children gave back!!! Our weekend activities: Saturday – The 40 Days of Peace Program, Sunday – Sunday Supper & Clothes Give Away and Monday – Coat Give Away at Salvation Army.

Milkwaukee, W I

Mid-Western Region

This past Martin Luther King Day the West Suburban Chicago Chapter partnered with the Willowbrook Corner, an after school program for under privileged minority children in our community. The center provides before and after school care for children from mostly single parent families. Creating and maintaining a quality program on a limited budget has been a challenge for the center which currently is run out of the local school gym. Both the programming and foundation committees in our chapter worked together to create an outstanding Day of Service program. The children wrote letters to our troops, made blankets for seniors and were mesmerized by the stories of Dr. King from a story teller. Our chapter donated much needed items, an 80” projector screen and a projector. The Foundation Committee secured a corporate sponsor, Citgo Gas that donated $1000 to the Center.

SCOPE 2013

43


Windy City, IL

Mid-Western Region

On November 10, 2012, Windy City Chapter led the way in packing meals for the Feed My Starving Children initiative. Upon arrival, the children watched a video and learned facts about the Feed My Starving Children project. They were taught about protective food service wear and they then put on their protective food service wear and began the task of measuring and packing food bags for less fortunate children in Africa. The children formed an assembly line for the ingredients that made up a “Manna Pack”. Once the bag had all the ingredients, it was weighed, sealed and packed into a box. When a box was completed each table cheered. Windy City packed the most bags (171 bags)! At the end of the packing session, there was a prayer and facts shared about how much food was packed and how many children it would feed for a year. After the activity, several families socialized at dinner at Red Robin restaurant. The children were so elated that they were able to help so many children in Africa. Long live Jack and Jill!

Youngstown, OH

Mid-Western Region

The Red Door Café is sponsored by St. John’s Episcopal Church in Youngstown, Ohio. Community organizations are assigned a day to assist in preparing and serving meals to families and individuals less fortunate. On Saturday, September 30, 2012, Jack and Jill of America Youngstown Chapter worked with St. John’s Episcopal Church to prepare and serve dinner to over eighty less fortunate individuals from the Mahoning Valley. These individuals enjoyed a hot delicious meal which included: fried chicken with an assortment of side dishes and desserts. This project served as an awesome learning experience for our youth in demonstrating how a small sacrifice can have a tremendous impact on the lives of those who may be experiencing difficult circumstances. Because of our commitment and service, we were invited to serve again in 2013. All of the Jack and Jill members are looking forward to making this event an annual tradition.

44

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Alexandria, LA

South Central Region

On November 10, 2012, Windy City Chapter led the way in packing meals for the Feed My Starving Children initiative. Upon arrival, the children watched a video and learned facts about the Feed My Starving Children project. They were taught about protective food service wear and they then put on their protective food service wear and began the task of measuring and packing food bags for less fortunate children in Africa. The children formed an assembly line for the ingredients that made up a “Manna Pack”. Once the bag had all the ingredients, it was weighed, sealed and packed into a box. When a box was completed each table cheered. Windy City packed the most bags (171 bags)! At the end of the packing session, there was a prayer and facts shared about how much food was packed and how many children it would feed for a year. After the activity, several families socialized at dinner at Red Robin restaurant. The children were so elated that they were able to help so many children in Africa. Long live Jack and Jill!

Austin, TX

South Central Region

In December, the Austin Chapter hosted a community service project benefitting all children at the Thurmond Heights Boys and Girls Club of Austin (BGCA). Gift baskets for each BGCA child were prepared by Austin Chapter children and mothers from all grade groups. Our compassionate teens prepared 10 special baskets for the teens of Thurmond Heights BGCA, and raised funds to assist club programs. BGCA children and their families were invited to worship service with our Jack and Jill family. At church, the BGCA children were given their gift baskets and the club received monetary donations exceeding $2000.00 donated from mothers, teens and individual families. Brian Beaulieu, Thurmond Heights Boys and Girls Club of Austin Director of Operations, shared “Your kids are perfect peer role models for our own and represent what we’re trying to inspire in our kids.” While humbled by the compliment, we are honored to serve our community.

SCOPE 2013

45


DFW Mid-Cities, TX

South Central Region

DFW Mid-Cities Chapter started our program year with our chapter-wide community service activity to recognize Jack and Jill Day and honor the memory of Carole Robertson. We continued our annual tradition with “Carole’s Closet” where each family supplied the “closet” with suggested items for donation to our local charity, St. John’s Church, Hopes Chest Ministry. In February, the chapter will participate in a HBCU tailgate where our kids will learn about Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This will be another fun-filled family event where our families will cook their best tailgate dish; support their HBCU by decorating cars and wearing school paraphernalia; and the teens will create display boards and give oral presentations about different HBCU’s. As DFW Mid-Cities Chapter moves through the 2013 programming year, our goal is to create an environment filled with rich experiences that will lead each child in reaching his/her true “Power and Potential

North Houston Suburban, TX North Harris Suburban Chapter’s Teens of Pride and Success, (TOPS) dedicated a breezy Saturday in January to ready the new home of a north Houston African American family with Habitat for Humanity. Seventeen TOPS and their sponsors laid sod and shoveled soil to beautify the front and rear yards of the completed home. Although the work was dirty and intense, the Jack and Jill teens, moms, and dads found it to be a true labor of love. Laughter, fellowship of friends, and the knowledge that the community was being served, made the day sail by quickly.

46

SCOPE 2013

South Central Region


Civic / Community Service

North Suburban Dallas, TX

South Central Region

The North Suburban Dallas (NSDJJ) Chapter started 2013 with a National Day of Service project at Paul Quinn College (HBCU) in Dallas, TX. Paul Quinn built an organic Farm, symbolically titled “We Over Me Farm”, on an area of campus that once housed their football program. The Farm features 300,000 square feet of plantable space, a bee apiary and agricultural laboratories. Produce from the Farm provides affordable and healthy food options to the college, area restaurants and to the surrounding community. A community designated as an “urban food desert” since the nearest grocery store is located more than 6 miles away. College President, Michael Sorrell, shared how the innovation and services of the Farm provides a replicable model for urban redevelopment and entrepreneurship. NSDJJ members volunteered by weeding, composting, and planting vegetables. Over the course of the year, the chapter will partner with the Farm to support surrounding community initiatives.

Northeast Dallas, TX

South Central Region

The Northeast Dallas Chapter, in partnership with the Garland Branch NAACP, commemorated the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) on January 19, 2013. At the 24th annual parade, our youth performed a skit celebrating the vision of our founders, emphasizing the importance of fostering change within our community through leadership and service. Their artistic abilities were showcased in the design of the MLK t-shirt, and their vision was realized in the completion of the parade float, earning the first place trophy in the float contest. What joy they exhibited as they walked the parade carrying signs of past, present, and future leaders and chanting “The Dream Is Still Alive; Dr. Martin Luther King”. At the parade conclusion, our youth attended the Commemorative Program, where “Jack” Ryan Clark, age 6, opened up the program with a powerful prayer, and “Jill” Sydney Thomas, age 7, read Ecclesiastes 3: 1 – 8. SCOPE 2013

47


Red River, LA

South Central Region

For the third year, the Red River Chapter sponsored our holiday Socks for Seniors event. Partying with a purpose, the Red River Tots, Tumblers and Tweens gathered first for a holiday party where they brought donated items for the seniors at the Bradford House such as socks, toiletries, etc. The children decorated bags for the residents in holiday themes. A week later, the Red River children gathered at the Bradford House, sang Christmas carols, brought Christmas greetings and delivered each bag to smiling residents. The Red River children, Tots to Tweens, exemplified the belief that you are never too little to give and never too big to say thank you.

Waco, TX

South Central Region

The Waco Chapter Teen group exemplified love and community outreach in their Christmas food drive. In 2012 the Teens were resolved in their effort to give back to the community. Toward that end they created a series of events designed to enhance their community giving. In the early fall they hosted several “Tailgating for the Cause” events at Baylor Football games where they would collect donations for designated charities. In December they once again opened their hearts to collect Christmas dinner meals. Our Teens came together over their Christmas break to box up the donated food. Each box contained sufficient food to feed a family with plenty of leftovers! Our local CPS office supplied names of families in need. In the days before Christmas they delivered FOUR boxes of Christmas meals to those families. Each family was overjoyed at the Teens generosity and each teen’s charitable spirit was re-invigorated!

48

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Atlanta, GA

Southeastern Region

On January 21, 2013, the Atlanta Chapter honored Dr. Martin Luther King by participating in three separate community service projects throughout the city. More than 100 chapter youth and teens participated in these events. The PreK through 3rd grade students hosted a Game Day which raised over $600 for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Grades 4 through 6 took the Truly Living Farm, an urban farm that grows organic vegetables in the heart of downtown Atlanta, by storm. These children spread mulch, made bird feeders, and distributed them throughout the farm. The 7th -12th grade teens spent four hours cleaning and landscaping Kittredge Park. The Atlanta Chapter truly used this day to demonstrate the teachings of Dr. King. Chapter teens and youth made a significant impact through their outstanding community service.

Augusta, GA

Southeastern Region

The Augusta Chapter started its year with many motivating and successful projects. We exceeded expectations with our Annual Golf Tournament (3rd), it included various corporate sponsors and over 100 golfers. Through the success of this tournament, our chapter agreed to support the donatation of funds to the Boys and Girls Club, Thomas Head-Start of Augusta, March of Dimes, and the Augusta Mini Theatre. A check was presented to an organization at our Holiday gathering.

SCOPE 2013

49 


Birmingham, AL

Southeastern Region

The Birmingham, Alabama Chapter’s 2012-2013 programming began in August, with a highly successful Back to School Backpack Drive activity and partnership with Hands on Birmingham. Ryan Hall, Service Committee chair and Jordan Davis, co-chair, set up collection dates and times for teens to donate school-acceptable backpacks and a variety of school supplies. Over 50 backpacks and hundreds of school supplies were collected and delivered to Hands on Birmingham. The teens were given the opportunity to deliver backpacks to two local charities: Aletheia House, a long-term residence substance abuse treatment center and Grace House Ministries, a Christian-based, residential home for physically and emotionally abused girls. Both charities focus on helping those who have been abused and need to be healed, lost and need to be found, and those who have been overlooked and deserve to be noticed. All child/teen residents received a backpack full of school supplies.

Buckhead Atlanta, GA

Southeastern Region

The Buckhead Atlanta Chapter is so excited to share our powerful programming success story of our Random Acts of Kindness activity. We challenged the 3rd through 8th graders to participate in an activity where they were to conduct a series of acts in a local mall. Our children embarked on a most memorable event. They performed several tasks to include placing coins in candy machines and opening doors. We asked one child to purchase a cookie for the very next customer that stood in line. As the child approached the elderly woman and handed the clerk the money for the treat, the woman began to cry. She mentioned to us that no one had ever given her anything in all of her adult life. We all cried with her! Our children were so moved by this lesson, however, it served as an even greater reminder that we ALL must do more.

50 

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

East Suburban Atlanta, GA

Southeastern Region

In celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Jack and Jill of America, the members of East Suburban Atlanta Chapter, in conjunction with Rob’d With Kindness, Inc., competed to see who could give the most acts of kindness by April 2013. Rob’d with Kindness is a non-profit organization lead by Mrs. Deborah Curry who lost her son through a senseless act of violence and has committed herself to encourage young people to choose kindness. Her efforts are touching the lives of children in Atlanta, Georgia. ESAC blogged about their acts of kindness @ robsmemory.com. Happy Anniversary to the members of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated...now……You’ve been ROB’d With Kindness-PASS IT ON!

Ft. Lauderdale, F L

Southeastern Region

The Ft. Lauderdale Chapter of Jack and Jill united with community organizations for “Step Up to the Polls” on November 3, 2012. The event began with a march to the African-American Research Library. After the march, participants enjoyed food, prizes and entertainment. Political leaders spoke about the importance of voting. In support of the national “Four for 4” initiative, Chapter members committed to bring four people to early vote. The Chapter also sponsored a youth tent. Children of all ages “voted” for elected officers as well issues that impact their lives. Teens learned about the importance of voting by participating in a voting scavenger hunt. Younger children colored flags and ballots. At the conclusion of the event Ft. Lauderdale Chapter children performed “Vote for Somebody”. This event was a success in raising community awareness about the importance of voting. Our Chapter was honored to serve in this important community event. SCOPE 2013

51


Greater Metropolitan Atlanta, GA

Southeastern Region

The Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter prides itself in its ongoing relationship with the Andrew and Walter Young YMCA. On January 21, 2013, GMAC hosted a community wide MLK Celebration/ Inaugural Bash entitled “Realizing a Dream Come True”. This event included over 100 children from ages 2-18 that participated in a myriad of activities: A Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Breakfast, recitation of the MLK “I Have a Dream Speech” by a community child, Drumline Competition, Clown, Face Painting, DJ with Dancing, Bounce House, and Arts & Crafts. The activity culminated with the viewing of the swearing in of President Barack Obama for his second term. Our chapters’ goal was to expose our children to the importance of our political and legislative activism while sharing and hosting the children in our own community. GMAC continues to strive create innovate programming activities, inspire our children to greatness, and impact the community around us to make this world a better place – one child at a time.

Lake Spivey, GA

Southeastern Region

Lake Spivey families are involved with multiple community service projects. However, we are most proud of our service to the Arrowhead Healthcare Senior Facility. We adopted the facility, which houses low-income, elderly, and medically disabled residents. Our goal is to build meaningful relationships between the residents and Lake Spivey. In order for our children to engage on a personal, hands-on level, every fourth Saturday of each month, one of our groups visits the facility and assists the residents. Our level of our assistance varies depending on the health of the resident and on the grade group visiting. Generally, activities include reading, combing hair, painting fingernails, playing cards/board games, or just coloring in their favorite coloring books. During the Christmas holiday, the entire Lake Spivey Georgia Chapter celebrates with the residents and staff. Our interactive festivity includes dinner, gifts, caroling and individual children showcasing personal talents.

52

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Memphis, TN

Southeastern Region

The Memphis Chapter donated over 200 teddy bears stuffed and decorated by Jack and Jill’ers in the annual chapterwide community service event held for the Memphis Child Advocacy Center. The chapter has supported this initiative in the Memphis community for many years. The Memphis Child Advocacy Center serves children who are victims of abuse through prevention, education and intervention. The brand new bears are given to children receiving services at the center. This chapter-wide community service event also allows members in various age groups to engage with one another while serving the community. In addition to this event , the chapter provides a “Living Black History Museum” where youth members dress as African American historical figures and recite historical information for the community. This event is attended by local youth and other residents in the Memphis community.

Mobile, AL

Southeastern Region

The LeBeautillion Militaire Program is a multifaceted program designed for distinguished young men in their senior year of High School. The Mobile Chapter of Jack and Jill introduced this program to our community 33 years ago. This program has allowed us to present over 1000 young men to the community as well as help raise money for our National Foundation and enable us to donate to various local charities such as Sickle Cell, Girls’ and Boys’ Club, Mobile Aids Support and many others. This year we have 32 dynamic young men that have been involved with community service, educational, cultural and social activities. They have been exposed to Financial Literacy, Legal Rights, Conflict Resolution, Leadership Development and Healthy-Living workshops. The end-of-the-year culminating events are a Formal Luncheon and Dinner Dance that will showcase our talented young men. SCOPE 2013

53


Montgomery, AL

Southeastern Region

The Montgomery, Alabama Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated recently hosted the Beautillion Militaire 2012, “Chasing a Vision into Reality”. Beginning in 1980, under the administration of Mrs. Bennye Black Reasor, the chapter sponsored its first Beautillion Militaire. This is a biannual event, which continues to focus on chapter building and transition to manhood for young men in the greater Montgomery area through social, cultural and educational activities. This year the event honored and recognized 29 young men. The young men participating in this program attended a series of workshops, focusing on financial literacy, leadership, self-esteem, social skills and preparation for college. The Beautillion Militaire raised funds for the Jack and Jill Foundation which will be reinvested into the community through charitable contributions. Over the past years the Beautillion Militaire has allowed the chapter to win numerous recognitions at the National and Regional level.

South Miami, F L

Southeastern Region

The South Miami Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated hosted its annual Holiday community service event to benefit domestic violence survivors. This year’s event entitled “Love, Hope and Faith” was held at Inn Transition, a domestic violence shelter for women and children. Our Jack and Jill children assembled “Mother Baskets” containing makeup and personal care items as well as “Baby Baskets” containing toys, onesies and other needed baby care items. Over 50 children were blessed in receiving the gift baskets and holiday toys. Jack and Jill children and mothers participated with the mothers and children of Inn Transition in making holiday crafts. All families shared a delicious meal together. Afterwards, the children enjoyed playing together in the park. The event was a success and the holiday spirit was shared by all.

54

SCOPE 2013


Civic / Community Service

Stone Mountain, GA

Southeastern Region

On Monday January 21, 2013 members of the Stone Mountain Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated participated in the Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade sponsored by the Dekalb County Chapter of the NAACP. Over 35 mothers, dads and children gathered to walk in honor of the slain civil rights leader on the recently designated Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway. In honor of Carole Robertson our youth walked the four-mile route with backpacks filled with books, donating over 275 books along the parade route to members of the community. The chapter’s Carole Robertson book drive has been an ongoing endeavor, with children and mothers donating books during major chapter activities for the 2012-2013-program year.

Treasure Coast, F L

Southeastern Region

The Treasure Coast Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated celebrated the new year by committing to a healthier lifestyle. We participated in the second annual “Walk for the Health of it” and walked along the Saint Lucie River. Money raised was donated to the Hands Clinic to provide medical care for underinsured cancer patients in St. Lucie County, Heiffer International, and the American Kidney Fund. Our Jacks and Jills also wrapped and packed boxes to send to children who are less fortunate through the Operation Christmas Child Service Project. We were able to track our packed boxes to destinations all over the world. In observance of our Founders’ Day, we worshipped together by attending a church service. Our Teen members had the pleasure of attending the MLK Youth Summit, which embraced the theme “Planning Your Future.” They had an opportunity to meet with local professionals of various careers. SCOPE 2013

55


Williamson County, TN

Southeastern Region

There is nothing more rewarding than spending an evening with Service Chair, Mother Michelle Jones and the Williamson County Area Chapter of Jack and Jill during the Thanksgiving season.

The chapter partnered with non-profit agency GraceWorks to provide emergency food and needed nutrition to hungry families in the service area. Jack and Jillers received boxes and barrels to display at their prospective schools for a month and later collected them to donate to the agency’s Second Harvest Food Bank Fuel Bag program. The evening was full of high energy and willing spirits as the Sugar and Spice, Kid Power, Preppies and the Teen group worked to sort and distribute their donations. Upon completion, the Fuel bags were filled with nutritious and easily prepared food items. These bags will be given to program participants at local area schools.

Ann Arbor, MI

Mid-Western Region

Community service is in full force for the Ann Arbor Chapter of Jack and Jill. In the month of February alone, our children/Tweens/ Teens, moms and dads helped stock the food shelves of our local Salvation Army distribution center with over 1000 pounds of food within a two hour period. Jack and Jill members created and painted twenty clay bowls for the Detroit Gleaner’s “Empty Bowls” Fundraiser to help raise monies to feed area, needy families and they presented food for distribution to the center. Ann Arbor Chapter Junior and Senior Teens also collected nearly 40 pairs of gently used jeans for Aeropostale’s® annual jeans drive that will be distributed to homeless teens in the Washtenaw county area.

56

SCOPE 2013


Cultural Heritage J

ack and Jill of America has provided impactful and life changing experiences to communities and families across the nation for 75 years. We have commemorated the attributes inherited from past generations, sustained our present, and bestowed this benefit for future generations. The Sweet, Sweet Southeastern has embraced this years’ Thrust, Cultural Heritage. It is with the commitment to this philosophy that our Regional Director, Marjorie Mitchell, led an African America trip of a lifetime down south to the Mississippi Delta. “If not us, then who? If not now, then when?” –John Lewis The Southeastern Region Explores the Mississippi Freedom Trail on its 8th Annual Regional Trip -- “It’s Never Too Late To Get On The Bus!”

Families arrived in strong numbers over President’s Weekend in February of 2013, eager to explore our rich and often difficult Civil Rights history in Mississippi. An amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience, our trip allowed us both to visit historic places and to meet the courageous civil rights activists who made these places a central part of American history. Utilizing our time on the bus as we rode to important cities like Cleveland and Philadelphia, MS, we viewed educational videos and study materials to help our children build foundational knowledge of the Civil Rights Movement prior to arrival. Children learned about our history first-hand from courageous Civil Rights luminaries, including Mr. Charles McLaurin, Mr. Hollis Watkins, Mr. Sam Bradford, Mrs. Margaret Block, Mrs. Flonzie Brown-Wright and Mrs. Reena Evers-Everette, the daughter of slain civil rights leader Medgar Evers. A few Regional Trip highlights included – • Jackson State’s MADDRAMA performing theatrical productions Take Me Back and New Keepers of the Dream

• • • • • • • • • • • •

The Alamo Theatre – Freedom Song movie, then Q&A with SNCC veterans from McComb Bryant’s Grocery Store and the Emmett Till Intrepid Center Fannie Lou Hamer Memorial Garden B. B. King Museum, Delta Interpretive Center & Ebony Club in Indianola Amzie Moore’s Home (Revolutionary Dormitory) Freedom Songs with Mrs. Margaret Block Freedom Rider’s Michael Schwerner, Andrew Goodman & James Earl Chaney Murder Site Mount Zion Church in Philadelphia – burned down by the KKK Tougaloo College & Chapel James O. Eastland Courthouse & Judge Henry T. Wingate COFO Civil Rights Education Center Medgar Evers Home

“While we had heard the stories before, audio, video, dramatic and live recounting provided a level of detail and inclusion that this piece of history will be forever ingrained in our memories.” –Mother Arris Murphy, Memphis Chapter “You organized an amazing trip and gave me memories with my kids that I will enjoy forever. That trip made history come alive for us all.” –Father John R. Richardson, Pinellas Chapter “This trip, by far, was the most extraordinary Regional Trip ever! My children learned what can NEVER be taught in school. We know now, “It’s Never Too Late to Get On The Bus!” –Immediate Past RD Joli Cooper-Nelson

Latrecia Jordan

Southeastern Region

National Program Committee SCOPE 2013

57


Denver, CO

Central Region

The Denver Chapter celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the inauguration of President Barack Obama, on January 21, 2013. All age groups marched in the “Marade”, (March and Parade,) which is the largest in the country. Chapter Banners were proudly held by each age group, as they marched through the streets of Denver. At the beginning of the program, excerpts from the inanauguration were played and all age groups discussed aspects of the speech. During the March, discussions related to Dr. King’s life, values and his impact on issues our youth face today were held. Comparisons were made between the America of Dr. King’s time and the America of President Barack Obama. The day culminated with the younger children attending the Black Rodeo and learning of the Black presence in the America West and the older age group continuing their political comparisons over dinner.

East St. Louis, IL

Central Region

The East St. Louis, IL Chapter celebrated 50 years of service to the community at a luncheon held on Sunday, April 15, 2012. The guest speaker was the 14th National President of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, Dr. Lillian A. Parks. We were graced with the presence of charter members Bernice Higgins, Dr. Lena Weathers, and Lee Annie Bonner, along with Central Region Director Natalie Brunson-Wheeler. The culturally rich history of the chapter was shared throughout the program, including a slide show and testimonials. Our children served as hosts and our teens were program participants. The 2012 chapter president, Sandra Brown, and program chair and co-chair, Jaye P. Willis and Lauren Parks, were pleased with the turnout and the participation of the chapter mothers. Our chapter was inspired to continue its good works for the next 50 years and beyond! The 2012/2014 chapter president is Carmella L. Hardnett.

58

SCOPE 2013


Cultural Heritage

South Suburban Denver, CO

Central Region

During the 2012-2013 programming year, each age group in the South Suburban Denver Chapter engaged in various activities and events that encouraged them to prepare for college. This year, the chapter is proud of all of the time our Jack and Jills have spent preparing for their Black History Month program that will highlight Historically Black Colleges (HBCU). This year, our Jack and Jills spent a considerate amount of time actively meeting and rehearsing for the upcoming HBCU Fair. Our junior teens are especially excited as they are planning to host a radio show similar to that of Steve Harvey’s show at Howard University as they represent famous alumni such as Thurgood Marshall, from Howard University, Cheney State, and Lincoln University. Each “alumni” will be interviewed during the show and will hand out giveaways to College Fair participants that know little known facts about the College’s that each alumni represent.

Greater Essex County, NJ

Eastern Region

Black History Celebration: GECC celebrated Black History Month learning about jazz music and the influence artists like Ella Fiztgerald and Louis Armstrong had on our culture. Younger children participated with the artist, dancing, playing instruments and learning to ‘scat’.

Health Fair/Fun Run: GECC and North Jersey chapters co-sponsored a Health & Wellness Fair/Fun Run in April. Supporting our national campaign, AIM for Healthy Living, the event encouraged participants to take small, manageable steps to improve health. Participants included Barnabas Health’s Burn Foundation, Overlook Hospital’s Department of Community Health, UMDNJ’s Autism Center, the Valerie Fund, the American Heart Association, Whole Foods and Target. Highlights also included Zumba and Yoga instruction and a 1-mile Fun Run. Mock Debate/Election: In October, in preparation for the presidential election, GECC held a mock debate/election. Children grades 3-12 participated, debating topics such as the economy, foreign policy and social/moral issues.

SCOPE 2013

59


Pittsburgh, PA

Eastern Region

The Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated celebrated its 15th Biennial Presentation Ball on December 29th, 2012. The theme of the presentation ball was “Our Journey: Creating Our Legacy”. The ball highlights the chapter youths’ academic, athletics, entrepreneurial and community service endeavors along with their leadership and civic prowess. The Presentation Ball is the culminating event of a year long journey of educational workshops, self improvement seminars and community service activities for our chapter’s eleventh and twelve grade presentees. The eight presentees this year were Olivia Rose Barnes, Teran Michele Mickens, Rikki Lane Murphy, Kielah Agnes Turner, Corri Lynn Waters, Forrest Alexander Barnes, Tevin Michael Mickens and Shafer Dean Swann. The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank was the local beneficiary of our signature event. The ball’s fiscal’s contributions along with chapter volunteer service hours will supply more than 200,000 additional meals to the greater Pittsburgh community.

Potomac Valley, MD

Eastern Region

Potomac Valley Chapter marked the 75th anniversary of Jack and Jill of America with a special tribute to African American poetry. Each of our age groups performed. The pre-K-K group led us in the Pledge of Allegiance, the first - second grade group led us in a rousing rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” and the third - fifth grade group sang “The Greatest Love of All.” Both musical performances were accompanied by a talented teen violinist. Our junior teens recited poems by famous African Americans including Langston Hughes, Paul Laurence Dunbar and Maya Angelou. Poet Charisse Carney-Nunes, an award-winning author of children’s books including I am Barack Obama, as well as Songs of a Sistermom: Motherhood Poems, shared several of her original works. The Poetry Slam was a special anniversary commemoration that honored our heritage and celebrated our ancestors through our culturally rich legacy of literary achievements.

60

SCOPE 2013


Cultural Heritage

Rockland County, NY

Eastern Region

This multi-faceted activity met Jack and Jill’s S.T.E.M initiative with it’s focus on science and the arts. The group traveled to the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers, NY where they visited the Jerry Pinkney Exhibit, featuring the work of renowned African American artist and illustrator. The children and moms enjoyed dabbling in art themselves in the museum’s art studio, recreating characters from Pinkney’s work. While at the museum, children also took in a planetarium show, “The Planets” and learned about their galaxy and beyond. The trip ended with a visit to the interactive part of the museum that showcased the eco-system of the Hudson Valley. “I liked the interactive part of the museum where we heard the audio of insects in the Hudson Valley. It was creepy but kind of fun”, said one of the participants. There was something for everyone.

Greater Vallejo, CA

Far West Region

Greater Vallejo Chapter is a catalyst for change: modeling social influence while educating our children about their cultural heritage. In anticipation of the “Red Tails” film release, the Chapter’s 19th Annual Read-In Event featured historic presentations by surviving Tuskegee Airman, Captain Edward Woodward, and Dianne Esters-Rafalkski; the niece of one of the original Tuskegee Airmen. Captain Woodward and Ms. Esters-Rafalkski shared testimonies of the Airmen and African American experience. Ms. Esters-Rafalkski’s Uncle, Lt. Maurice “Smokey” Esters, received a purple medal of honor for his heroism in Nazi-occupied southern Europe and was also depicted in the film. Prior to the Read-In, the Chapter hosted an open activity where we sold exclusive tickets to view the movie “Red Tails”. Our viewing sold out and caused the theater to add an additional screen! Greater Vallejo’s pride in our cultural heritage did not only benefit our children, but our entire community.

SCOPE 2013

61


Inand Empire, CA

Far West Region

The Inland Empire Chapter began the 2012 – 2013 year by bringing everyone together in celebration of “Jack and Jill Day” and in remembrance of “Carole Robertson Day.” The event served to honor Carole Robertson, a member of Jack and Jill and one of the tragic “Birmingham Four”, who perished with three other little girls in a senseless bombing due to hate. Our daughters, likeminded and similar in age to the murdered girls, paid tribute in a performance that ended dramatically with the words, “Imagine what we could have done or become if it wasn’t for that bomb.” Their program reminded everyone of how the senseless act of racism, committed not that long ago, ended the lives, but not the dream, of four girls with promising futures. The evening concluded with a candlelit moment of silence and a recitation of Amin Sharif’s“Blues for the Birmingham Four.” As members of Jack and Jill, we must continue to educate our children so these events will not be forgotten or repeated.

Charlottesville, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

The chapter kicked off the year with an African Dance and Drumming program at the McGuffey Art Center. Participants were educated about African drums and given instruction on how to play various rhythms. The Jacks and Jills took turns making music. The instructor also led the group through traditional movements that when combined with the rhythm became expressive dance. The room was filled with rhythm makers and shakers of all ages. The dancers and drummers ranged from 2 years old to 50+. The Jacks and Jills participated in equal measure. If you ask the moms, it was a wonderfully educational experience. If you ask the Jacks and Jills, it was fun! Some of our best lessons in life come through experiences.

62

SCOPE 2013


Cultural Heritage

Hampton, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

Oh what a joyous occasion!! Hampton chapter celebrated our 3rd annual Christmas Party/ Kwanzaa celebration. Our families came together to connect with our heritage and culture and celebrate our African roots. This gathering not only presented an opportunity for family, fellowship and fun, but it provided an opportunity for us to help others in our community. Each family donated a warm, cozy pair of pajamas in collaboration with the Norfolk Chapter’s “PJ’s for the Holidays” campaign for less fortunate children. This act of kindness demonstrated our supportive commitment and investment in our community and served as an inspiration to bettering our society. During our festivities, children from each of our age groups provided entertainment, which included acknowledging the seven principles of Kwanzaa through creative, fun and entertaining age group presentations. Overall, the event offered us unique opportunities for reflection, reverence and sharing of God’s great love with one another.

Lake Shore, IL

Mid-Western Region

The Lake Shore Chapter’s Kwanzaa event celebrated Leadership, Community Service and Cultural Heritage as well as the 75th Anniversary of Jack and Jill of America Incorporated The children of Lake Shore had the opportunity to display their leadership skills through participation in our Kwanzaa program. Our teens were instrumental in the development of the program as well as mentoring the younger children with their speaking roles. The Kwanzaa program was not only entertaining but also culturally enriching. Our children researched the history and principles of Kwanzaa and everyone in attendance left with a deeper understanding of this celebration. We also celebrated our African ancestry in the African Libation Ritual. Our Chapter also participated in the Holiday Gift Giving Project with the Carole Robertson Learning Center. Lake Shore provided 75 children with one item from their Christmas list. The teens individually wrapped and addressed all of the gifts. SCOPE 2013

63


Minneapolis, MN

Mid-Western Region

Stepping is defined as “…a form of percussive dance in which the participant’s entire body is used as an instrument to produce complex rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken word, and hand claps.” Stepping is a part of the legacy of historically black fraternities, sororities and the campuses of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As part of our 2013 teen program the Minneapolis Chapter of Jack and Jill brought the history and fun of stepping to our teen group. Following an introduction that included the history of stepping, teens watched a demonstration of the rhythmically focused dance. Our teens then spent the afternoon learning step and stroll moves. While we didn’t end the afternoon with a perfectly choreographed piece, the teens did earn an appreciation of stepping history and the hard work it takes to put together a great routine.

North Oakland Macomb, MI

Mid-Western Region

All Aboard!! The North Oakland Macomb Chapter’s Destination to Greatness began with a fantastic voyage for our Founder’s Day Celebration on January 20th. Children from Group 1 through the teens took an historic and educational virtual train ride to the bayou of New Orleans, the auto capital of the world in Detroit, to the rich in history cities of Birmingham and Atlanta, onto our nation’s capital, Washington, DC, with our final stop being Oakland County to honor our local history and charter members. Each stop of the way, the children enhanced our journey by exposing us to historical icons and landmarks of African American heritage. We also paid homage with a dedication to our charter families, as our last charter family will graduate this year. Through the leadership, hard work and talents of our children, this was an unforgettable and remarkable event.

64

SCOPE 2013


Cultural Heritage

Arlington, TX

South Central Region

The Arlington Chapter presented its 3rd Annual Black History performance - Harriet Tubman and Friends Journey Through Black History. On this journey children from Grades 1–12, as well as participating mothers and fathers, provided an informative, educational program for our chapter, other invited organizations, and the community at large. Harriet Tubman escorted the audience through various eras in Black history including pre-slavery, slavery, Harlem Renaissance, Civil Rights, and present day where they met legendary figures such as Fredrick Douglas, Dred Scott, Dr. Charles Drew, Madame CJ Walker, Mae Jemison, and Gabrielle Douglas. Some children were able to incorporate “Finding Their Roots” by featuring a family member who is a significant historical figure. In addition to being educational and informative, interactive components were woven throughout in the form of notes to be filled in during the performance and an audience question and answer session.

Baton Rouge, LA

South Central Region

The Baton Rouge Chapter held its Second Annual Family Celebration honoring Jack and Jill Founders Day on January 26, 2013. The event was chaired by Dionne Joseph. Teen President, Isaiah Myers, welcomed all in attendance. Entitled, Jack and Jill: Celebrating Our Roots for 75 Years, the Baton Rouge Chapter celebrated 75 years of Jack and Jill’s service as a labor of love. Past National Corresponding Secretary, Jacqueline Nash, commemorated the contributions of Jack and Jill’s founders and Shera Gardner delivered an inspirational moment. The African Continent was well-represented in the age-group presentations. Buttons and Bows presented Nigeria; Beaux-Belles presented Ethiopia; Shirts and Skirts, Continental J’s and Teens presented Liberia, South Africa and Ghana, respectively. A highlight of the event was a presentation given by the United Nigerian Organization. The occasion’s musical highlight was the group’s rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing as well as the Jack and Jill Song. SCOPE 2013

65


Greater Channel, TX

South Central Region

“If one knows not from whence she has come, she will not know where she is going.” The Mothers of the Greater Channel Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated seek every opportunity to assure that their children and youth are exposed to the pioneers in African American history. Mothers and Blazing Star Tweens had an overnight African American history party at a member’s home. The Tweens enjoyed movies, African American history trivia games, listened to inspirational speeches of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr and attended the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade the following morning. They enjoyed incredible sounds and performances of marching bands and cheered as they marched along the route. The goal of this activity was to shed light on the past in order to strive for the copious future opportunities that lie ahead.

New Orleans, LA

South Central Region

New Orleans is a culturally rich city. We enjoy exposing the young people to culturally relevant activities. The New Orleans Chapter held its annual Kwanzaa Celebration on Sunday, December 9, 2012 at Café Istanbul. This chapter wide activity always has a large turnout every year and this year was no exception. The Silhouette Dance Ensemble performed a welcome dance and then came back later in the program to perform with drummers and the audience. The Moppets (2-5) and Skippers (6-8) sang the Kwanzaa Gathering song before the audience recited the Kwanzaa Pledge. The Spacers (9-10) and VIP’s (11) presented the symbols while the Teens shared the principles and lit the menorah. The Father’s Auxiliary made a presentation and performed spoken word. After the program was completed a soul food feast was enjoyed by the families and their guests.

66

SCOPE 2013


Cultural Heritage

Athens, GA

Southeastern Region

Habari gani? The Athens Area Chapter of jack and Jill of America, Incorporated began a beautiful Sunday afternoon with its first ever Kwanzaa Play. The participants of the Kwanzaa play included children from all age groups. The children were able to incorporate the art of acting with the principles of Kwanzaa in a creative and fun manner. After the play, a small reception was held which then led to our annual Kwanzaa celebration. This celebration of the seven principles of Kwanzaa ( Nguzo Saba) was led by Mother Mariel Blake and her family. As each belief was read and explained, the Jacks and Jills participated by lighting the candles. All participants were asked to share their thoughts for each principle. At the conclusion of our celebration, everyone joined in a circle and proclaimed, Harambee! Let’s pull together!

Miami, F L

Southeastern Region

In keeping with the essence of Black History Month, the Miami Chapter partook in a day of history and culture not far from home. All age groups, moms, and dads, traveled to Eatonville, Florida for an enriching cultural experience at the Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities. The day began with a tour and historic overview of the Seminole Indian Wars, Disney’s impact in Central Florida from the African American perspective inclusive of Eatonville, which is the oldest incorporated African American city in the United States. Upon completion of tour, the group spent the remaining of the day enjoying the festival’s many displays of art by master crafters from around the state and the Bahamas, readings by African-American authors and multi-talented performers at the Africa Diaspora Pavilion. This was an ideal opportunity to observe and interact with persons who are tradition-bearers preserving their community’s African heritage. SCOPE 2013

67


Nashville, TN

Southeastern Region

The Nashville Chapter has been actively involved culturally, socially and civically in our community this programming year. In December, the Nashville Chapter of Jack and Jill hosted a book signing event of The Diary of B.B. Bright, Possible Princess at the exquisite home of New York Times Best Selling Author Alice Randall. We were honored to participate in the unveiling of Alice Randall’s first children’s book coauthored with her daughter Caroline Randall Williams at this very special engagement. The holiday-themed activity included unique ornament designing, creative and imaginative dress up stations and chess lessons and matches led for our younger children by our talented teens. The dramatic readings from the authors captivated the children and offered further exploration of the fascinating characters. This unique activity allowed our chapter to celebrate literacy and to enter that magically imaginative world where only a good book can take you!

Palm Beach, F L

Southeastern Region

Remember the stories of old high school sock hops of generations past? These hops were a cultural feature of the 1950s and early rock and roll. Fast forward to February 2012 and the wooden floors of the “cottage” at the historic Spady Cultural Museum in Delray Beach, FL and you will find the former Palm Beach Provisional Group children! A present-day sock hop with memories of dancing in their “cute” socks, candy, crème soda and clean fun for the Sugar and Teddy Bear Palms was in motion. A storyteller mesmerized the children with her African tale full of music and movement in honor of Black History Month. Our little PreK-2nd grade “sock-hoppers” feasted on mini burgers, old fashioned milk shakes, and fries and were entertained with musical chairs to the tunes of Smokey Robinson and the Miracles. The activity was a cultural extravaganza where fun was had by all!

68

SCOPE 2013


Cultural Heritage

Pinellas County, F L

Southeastern Region

The Pinellas County Chapter celebrated the importance of togetherness during their annual Kwanzaa celebration on December 28, 2012 at the Enoch Davis Center in St. Petersburg, Florida. Chairwoman Mother Brooke Taylor-Ward and her Kwanzaa committee organized an event that educated children through drumming and crafts, and provided an opportunity to fellowship with entertainment for attendees of all ages. Our Teens led the evening’s program, by reciting the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, and by guiding our younger ones in constructing their Kwanzaa crafts. The attendees were entertained by Jazz saxophonist Henry Ashwood, while models and mothers were featured in a fashion show, showcasing authentic African attire and jewelry. In the spirit of service, attendees donated shoes to Soles 4 Souls, an organization that donates the funding it receives from recycling shoes. The event truly exemplified the principle of “Umoja” while celebrating all of the Kwanzaa principles.

SCOPE 2013

69


Financial Literacy

J

ack and Jill of America, Incorporated seeks to

registering voters, passing out flyers, or hosting

ensure all children gain the skills and training

activities educating our children on the judicial

to succeed in life. Developing great leaders

process, the message of the importance of voting

for the future is the backbone of the National

was heard throughout the region.

Programming Trust. The development of leaders is

approximately 100 Mothers, Teens, and Tweens

done not only through excellent programming in the

participated in “Mock Election Day” in Lansing,

areas of community service, education, legislative,

hosted by the Michigan Centers of Excellence. A

and healthy living but also financial literacy. The

State Representative met with participates and the

financial literacy modules were originated in the

Teens/Tweens got an opportunity to partake in

Mid-Western Region and developed in collaboration

an online election. At our Fall Workday Clusters,

with Merrill Lynch. It is encouraged that all children

training and development were our focus but we

in Grades 3-12 complete at least 3 Financial

also took time to let our hair down and shared

Modules per program year.

sisterly love among our mothers.

In the Mighty Mid-Western Region, our Teens have

The Mid-Western Region Tween Apprentice Program

started investment clubs and partnered with local

continues to be a valuable programming initiative

banking institutions to enhance their knowledge

at our Spring Children/Tween Clusters.

of the financial structures in place and to better

“Apprentice Program” introduces the Tweens to the

understand the benefits of planning/preparing

JMB Leadership Modules and heightens their team

for the future.

The

Additionally, our children have

building, public speaking, and project management

been engaged in creative activities such as using

skills. At the 2013 Cluster, the Tweens developed

the “Game of Life” to better understand financial

a Market Plan to persuade consumers to donate to

planning to learn how to use and adhere to a

their designated charities through the use of social

budget.

media. Additionally, at the Michigan Cluster, the

Under the leadership of Region Director Melanie

Tweens revamped the Jack and Jill hymn and created

Lynn, the Mid-Western Region is dedicated to

a Market Plan/Strategy to encourage distribution to

delivering the programming promise to prepare our

perspective buyers.

children to “Get Ready! To Live, Learn, and Lead.”

Shermanita Cotton

To kick off our program year, the chapters across our region participated in a “Get Out to Vote” campaign lead by the Legislative Chairs. Whether we were

70

In Michigan,

SCOPE 2013

Mid-Western Region

National Program Committee


Financial Literacy

Little Rock, AR

Central Region

Westchester, NY

Eastern Region

The Jack and Jill Senior Teens of the Greater Little Rock Chapter focused on the financial literacy thrust by sponsoring a workshop called Financial Matters. Financial Consultant, Corbin Cobbs spoke to the teens about the importance of financial planning for the future, money management and savings. They also discussed the difference between salaried employees and commission employees. Next, the teens participated in a life skills exercise where they were allocated a monthly salary and had to produce a budget and manage their monthly expenses. This program was a great activity and helped our teens prepare to make better financial decisions in the future.

The Westchester Chapter held a Senior Teen event to help them recognize the importance of Financial Literacy. The Senior Teen group comprises 9th through 12th grade students. On September 30, 2012, the teens engaged in a phenomenal workshop guided by a focused conversation on how to afford a college education. They explored how best to approach the management of financial responsibilities while in college. The event, entitled “Show Me the Money�, sought to teach the teens the importance of taking a balanced approach to financial health while juggling the needs of their academic, social, and recreational activities during their collegiate tenure. Our mothers serve as wonderful resources to our teens in holding seminars to prepare them for entry into higher education. We are very appreciative of their collaborative approach to preparing the teens to remain fiscally sound. SCOPE 2013

71 


Burlington Graham, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Jack & Jill of America Netiquette and Financial Literacy Workshop was an outstanding public event held at the Danville Community College Foundation Hall, Silverman Auditorium. Our Jr. Jets, Jet Set Teens, and area youth participated in lively discussion and activity sessions with financial experts regarding the following topics: Budgeting as a Teenager, How to Develop a Financial Plan, and How to Establish Good Credit. A spirited and engaging session followed as the young people contributed to hands-on object lessons about protecting themselves in cyberspace from bullies, predators, and inappropriate content during our How to Use the Internet Safely segment of the event. Parents even learned some handy tips and tricks to aid them with monitoring their child’s online activity!

South Charlotte, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The definition of financial literacy is the ability to use knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively for a lifetime of financial being. The South Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill continue to make sure that this life skill is not taken lightly by providing our children with solid financial training, an integral part of programming. Kelly Lawrence, a wealth management specialist with Merrill Lynch, explained that the basic fundamentals of money management such as budgeting, investing and saving can make a difference in our children’s future. In addition to the fundamentals, Strategy #10 of the Jack and Jill and Jill Module Handbook: “Stop, Shop, Spend: All You Need to Know About Credit” was highlighted. The topic brought about some lively debates amongst the various age groups. By audience participation alone, we know that our children now have a better understanding of the importance of financial literacy. 72

SCOPE 2013


Financial Literacy

Chicago, IL

Mid-Western Region

In November 2012, the Chicago Chapter Group 3 children participated in an interactive financial literacy activity called Dollars and Sense. The activity was held at Journey World, a unique experiential programming space owned and operated by the Girls Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Journey World is a mini city with a replica City Hall, bank, TV and radio stations and sports arena. The children participated in the Money Management workshop, during which all of the young citizens were assigned a job, were required to establish checking accounts and to take out loans from the bank. The loans were used for their businesses; to buy permits from City Hall, or advertising on the radio station. The children learned about good spending and saving habits and were even given actual paychecks with their names on it. The activity was hosted by Patricia Robinson, Yvonne Blake and Angela Mahome.

North Suburban Atlanta, GA

Southeastern Region

A roll of the dice…. Pass “GO” and the 2nd-3rd Grade Group members in the North Suburban Atlanta Chapter are off and running as human game pieces in their Life Sized Monopoly Game.

Is it all luck?! Of course not, our 7 and 8 year olds learn that the key to financial success is careful financial planning. In this meticulously detailed event, our children were taught financial concepts such as opportunity cost and return on investment. Rounding the board on familiar Atlanta attractions such as the CNN building or Georgia Aquarium, each set of partners could choose to purchase the Coca-Cola Company or invest in The Atlanta University Schools or the King Center. The winner was awarded the t-shirt, “Millionaire in Training”. This Monopoly Game, while exciting and fun, easily applied the principals of financial modules 3,4, and 5 in a format that was accessible and entertaining.

SCOPE 2013

73


Healthy Living P OWER UP

T

he Healthy Living Initiative was introduced in 2010, by the 2010-2012 National Executive Board and was purposed to address the health crises facing

Chapters have committed to focus on providing healthy behaviors and personal empowerment programming and training for young people by implementing impactful activities that encourage and engage our youth to strive

African Americans. Immediate Past National President

to live healthy lifestyles.

Joseph-Labrie’s vision was to address the preventable

P OWER AND P O TENT IAL

diseases associated with poor nutrition and fitness as there is a disproportionately negative impact on the African-American community, particularly children.

Jack and Jill National Fitness Day is a national event where every chapter across the country participates in a fun and exciting fitness extravaganza of their choosing.

Train Up a Child... — this year’s focus is on helping our

Where our families and the communities we serve will

CHILDREN make better dietary decisions and encourage

come together to celebrate fitness. Fitness Day will be

their efforts to be physically active.

held in the month of April 2013.

Chapters continue to embrace the importance of being more aware of health issues that impact their community, resulting in an organization that is more health conscious. As you peruse the following articles it will be apparent that healthy living has been woven into the core of Jack and Jill as a national organization. This programming thrust has resulted in an organization that is more fit, and therefore better positioned to serve each other, our children, families and communities. We have earned recognition by national organizations, such as American Heart Association, March of Dimes and are recognized as an Advocate Partner of the United States Council on Fitness Sports and Nutrition and their President’s Challenge.

74

SCOPE 2013

Gladys M. Henderson National Program Director


Healhty Living

Arundel Bay Area, MD

Eastern Region

The Arundel Bay Area Chapter celebrated healthy living by hosting a Family Fun and Fitness Day for chapter families and community members. There were multiple exhibits and information available on nutrition, diabetes, heart disease, menopause and the hazards of smoking. We moved and grooved, enjoying belly dancing, Zumba, and line dancing; while our dads conducted basketball, golf and soccer clinics. Tug-of-war was a hit as young and old “flexed their muscles,” tugging their way to victory. Even our younger guests burned calories jumping, flipping and flopping in the moon bounce. Youngsters delighted in getting their faces painted by our teens as they cooled down from a fun version of “Zumba for Kids.” Several children showed how fit they were by accepting the challenge and earning the Presidential Physical Fitness Award. Healthy snacks were enjoyed, and some lucky participants went home with healthy living door prizes.

Baltimore, MD

Eastern Region

On Sunday, October 21, 2012, 23 members of Jack and Jill’s Baltimore Maryland Chapter joined roughly 23,000 participants for the Komen Race for the Cure – the largest footrace in the state of Maryland. This was the 20th year for the signature 5K event held in Hunt Valley, Maryland where adults, teens and children either walked, jogged or ran the course to celebrate breast cancer survivors and raise funds for research, treatment and education. This year’s theme was “Less talk, More action,” encouraging women to get their mammograms. As a chapter, we contributed over $1,000 to the $1.8 million raised and wore our T-shirts proudly with others clad in any and everything pink. What a wonderful way to demonstrate our community spirit and commitment to healthy living. We will return in 2013!

SCOPE 2013

75


Brooklyn, NY

Eastern Region

The Brooklyn Chapter started the 2013 year as a leading example of how to inform and engage our children in the National Programming Thrusts of STEAM, HBCU Linkage, Healthy Living and Community Service. We had the honor of having our chapter parents and alumni talk about their college experiences at Hampton University, Howard University, Morehouse College and Spelman College to our teen groups. Our younger teens where guided on what path they should take in high school in preparation of a career in math, science and engineering. Our older teens asked pointed questions on why is it important to attend and support HBCU. They all learned about the support system and preparation for handing life upon graduation that one attains by attending an HBCU. Brooklyn Chapter families partnered with four other community service women’s organization to hand out information to promote healthy heart awareness. Brooklyn continues to get it done.

Mercer County, NJ

Eastern Region

In December, Mercer County Chapter remembered those in need in a full chapter activity directed to end hunger. With 94% of our chapter families present, we partnered with Wegmans supermarket to donate food to a local food bank. Divided into wellorganized teams, the children were given grocery lists, shopping cards, calculators, and coupons collected by the teens. Practicing the AIM for Healthy Living and financial literacy modules, chapter members shopped for healthy foods while wearing holiday Jack and Jill hats. Our children’s presence was infectious, and to our delight, other shoppers were so inspired that they made donations on the spot. Working together, we packed the food into backpacks. At the official weighing, we found that we had collected 1,833 pounds of food for distribution to needy families. Mercer County’s members plan to round out that impressive donation to a ton of food in our quest to help to build a stronger, healthier community. 76

SCOPE 2013


Healhty Living

New Castle County, DE

Eastern Region

The Health and Fundraiser Committees combined forces to plan an awesome National Day of Fitness ~ “Taking Steps for Better Health: A Walk in the Park”. We held our inaugural Health Walk/ Fundraiser on April 21, 2012. Mother members, associates, children, families, patrons, and guests took a 5K trek to raise money for our local charity, Exceptional Care for Children (ECC) a skilled nursing facility for technology dependent children. Other activities included karate demonstrations, Zumba, line dancing, a Wii activity room sponsored by Best Buy, health screenings and fitness demonstrations. We burned calories, enjoyed healthy fare, and had fun. More than 150 people attended. We raised over $6000 for two wonderful charities, ECC and the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Incorporated. We did all this while fulfilling our AIM for Healthy Living! Initiative. We had a wonderful day of health with families in our community, and Chester and Montgomery Counties.

Orange County, CA

Far West Region

As our Orange County Chapter celebrates our 30th anniversary, our service programs continue to promote youth leadership development, cultural heritage, community service and healthy living. As host of the 2012 Regional Children’s Cluster, our “Health Boot Camp” emphasized physical fitness and healthy living. We embraced the National AIM initiative by getting participants actively move their bodies. The theme of healthy living was also incorporated into our 2012-2013 programming year “kick-off” barbeque. Our Group 5 teens facilitated a Sports and Art Clinic for members in Groups 1-4. Stations included basketball, volleyball, softball, soccer and bracelet making. As each group rotated stations, they bonded with each other and learned about a new sport. Additionally, for our annual Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, the children from all groups, moms and dads volunteered at the Orange County Food Bank to pack food boxes for local needy families. SCOPE 2013

77


Queen City, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

Our Kindergarten through 2nd grade “Voyagers” enjoyed a fun-filled experience to our local Earth Fare Healthy Supermarket. The tour began in the produce department and the children were led in an interactive discussion about unique fruits and vegetables, their health benefits, and how color matters. The children got to feel, smell, and taste items that were on display. The children were later broken into small groups for two scavenger hunts, “Eat Your Colors” and “All Forms Count”. The kids then visited the meat department to discuss the concept of organic and free-range meat. The bakery department also conducted a hands-on dough-making demonstration. The event concluded as the children enjoyed a nutritious lunch consisting of handmade pizza, fruit, raw veggies, bottled water, and dark chocolate truffles. Afterwards, they worked together on coloring pages that reinforced key concepts of the activity. The kids left the activity excited about HEALTHY EATING!

Oakland County, MI

Mid=Western Region

Henry Ford Health System’s “Interactive Kitchen Demonstration” was well attended by Oakland County’s Tweens. The activity was a part of our Healthy Living Initiative, teaching our children the importance of eating well and making healthy food choices. The activity began with a tour of Henry Ford’s Organic Greenhouse, where the children learned about hydroponics - growing plants in nutrient rich material instead of soil; and had the opportunity to release ladybugs - to help ensure a healthy growing environment for the herbs and vegetables. They also planted their own pea pods to take home. The children then participated in an interactive cooking demonstration, where they made kale chips (made from kale greens). They were also given fresh vegetables and a tasty Basil Parmesan dip as a healthy snack alternative. At the conclusion of the activity, all of the children committed to making at least one healthy lifestyle change.

78

SCOPE 2013


Healhty Living

Houston, TX

South Central Region

In October, our Royals and Rayettes, 7th and 8th graders, hit the tennis court in an aim for healthy living! The tennis clinic was instructed by local tennis pros. The group warmed-up by doing a series of stretches. They were instructed on tennis terminology, fundamental skills, stroke production, and best strategies. They really had a good work-out. The tennis pros incorporated a few fun games to break the monotony of the serious instruction. After the clinic, the group had a healthy lunch. The activity reinforced that a healthy lifestyle is essential. The group was encouraged to promote healthy eating and fitness in their homes, schools, and community starting with them. To help in this effort, each teen participant received a coupon for a free junior tennis class, and in addition to the coupon, 4 lucky teens or future tennis pros won a free one day tennis pass.

Red River, LA

South Central Region

Living Healthy and Giving Healthy! In a visit to the Northwest Louisiana Food Bank, the Red River Tumblers and Tweens (ages 6-12) learned about the many families and seniors who depend on the Food Bank’s services for daily nutritional meals. During their visit, Red River Tumblers and Tweens toured the facility and the garden that provides meals and fresh produce to 65, 000 families! Not only were the Tumblers and Tweens allowed to tour the warehouse, but they also applied their nutritional knowledge as they customized food offerings for Food Bank clients based on the clients’ nutritional needs. Lastly, each Tumbler and Tween painted a beautiful bowl and donated it for auction at the Northwest Louisiana Food Bank Empty Bowls annual fundraiser.

SCOPE 2013

79


Southwest Suburban Dallas, TX

South Central Region

Obesity, heart disease, asthma, and high blood pressure are all diseases that disproportionately affect African Americans. Get Up, Get Out and Get JIGGY our Healthy Living initiative provides the platform to increase physical activity for kids in and out of school across the communities we serve. Since 2011 the Jacqueline Robinson Grant has supported our answer to delivering on our commitment to providing programming to promote better health. This year we went to boot camp with our Youth Leadership Summit B)uilding O)n O)ur T)alents combining Leadership Development Workshops (character development, Integrity and Ethics, Service and Sacrifice, Financial Literacy, and Legislative) and Health and Wellness Activities (BMI assessments, creative arts, and Zumba for Kids). This spring, we will follow-up to measure BMI changes and have more fun with fitness (obstacle course challenge) and healthy meal preparation as we prepare for the summer break. SWSD’s Mantra: For our Children we Must Serve!

Knoxville, TN

Southeastern Region

n January 2013, the Knoxville Chapter’s youngest age groups focused on the ‘power and potential’ of healthy choices. The “What’s On My Plate?” activity began with an overview of the USDA MyPlate food guide and discussion of terms commonly found on food labels, like organic and gluten-free. Mothers and children were able to test their knowledge during a guided tour of the Trader Joe’s in Knoxville. The captain and crew welcomed the group with Hawaiian leis and briefly explained about Trader Joe’s history and unique product line. Children were encouraged to sample an array of different foods, including sushi, dried apricots, and banana chips. They were excited to try new snacks along with their Jack and Jill friends, and their mothers had the opportunity to add a few nutritious foods to their grocery lists. Each child was given a goody bag of healthy snacks, including fresh fruit, to take home. 80

SCOPE 2013


Healhty Living

Tallahassee, F L

Southeastern Region

The newly organized Junior Teen division of the Tallahassee Chapter, 6th – 8th grade, demonstrated they are champions for healthy lifestyles and community service. The Junior Teens initiated an activity in which they applied information gleaned from Childhood Obesity Prevention Training and met a vital need within the community. The Junior Teens planned and prepared a heart healthy, nutritious Italian feast for the residents of the Hope Community Center, a local shelter run by the Big Bend Homeless Coalition which provides transitional housing for families and veterans. This service activity required the Junior Teens to demonstrate understanding of basic nutrition, proper food handling, and preparation techniques. As the meal baked in ovens, the Junior Teens demonstrated their nutrition and wellness savvy by competing in a game show style competition to entertain residents. The residents and Junior Teens thoroughly enjoyed a morning of wellness and service.

SCOPE 2013

81 


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action Leadership Development

video provided by the San Jose Chapter Member,

The Far West Region took the “Empowering our

Brett Solomon. Bullying and its effects on those who

Youth through Leadership Development” segment of

are exposed to it is a timely topic for our teens. The

our National Theme very seriously in the 2012-2013

film, “Let’s Get Real” which examines issues that lead

program year. With the record number of bullying

to taunting and bullying, including racial differences,

incidents reported around the US and numerous

perceived sexual orientation, learning disabilities,

tragedies involving our youth, we implemented

religious differences, sexual harassment and others

new programming at Area Work Days and Teen

was viewed. Afterwards discussion occurred where

Conference with the goal of building stronger

teens learned to recognize bullying where it occurs

young men and women of principle, advocacy and

and to be advocates for those bullied.

leadership.

Community Service activities are an important

Teen Conference

Leadership Development experiential teaching tool

The AIM Obstacle Course (now called The Ultimate

that helps build strong, compassionate leaders.

Ice Breaker Course) was developed primarily as a

Our Area Work Day Community Service activities

teen leadership and teamwork tool while creatively

included: assisting at a local school Carnival in Las

incorporating the Healthy Living thrust. Our Regional

Vegas, Nevada; Fresno, California teens making

Teen Officers divided attendees into 12 teams. Each

blankets with the children at the Marjaree Mason

team was assigned a bandana color and given various

Center where they also prepared healthy snacks for

tasks ranging from the physical (jousting, push-ups,

them and taught the “Move Your Body” dance to

racing giant tricycles) to the mental (puzzles, brain

Anchorage, Alaska teens filling baskets with supplies

games) all while creating team work. These tasks

and necessities for Covenant House Alaska, a youth

allowed a leader to emerge using their specific

crisis center.

talent or skill to assist their team in completing the

JMB Leadership Module

task and move on to the next. As the Far West is the most spread out of all regions, this was a wonderful opportunity for teens to spend time together and get to know each other better. It was an extraordinary experience for them and they enjoyed it so much, they expressed wanting the Course at every future Regional Teen Conference as the opening activity!

The JMB Leadership Module we focused on at all Fall Area Work Days was Character Building. This module was chosen to tie in with our presentation on Bullying. Our very own Teen President Mariah Wilson helped facilitate the module with Teen Advisor S. Jamila Buckner. Through the Character Building Module, our teens learned the value of making

Area Work Day

decisions and choices that are right rather than easy,

At our Fall 2012 Area Work Days hosted by the

followed by our Bullying Presentation.

Anchorage Chapter, Fresno Chapter and the Las Vegas Chapter, our teens participated in valuable Community Service projects, JMB Leadership Modules and a Bullying Presentation given by our FWR Teen Advisor S. Jamila Buckner with documentation and 82

SCOPE 2013

Tiffany Aldridge Far West Region

National Program Committee


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Air Capita Wichita, KS

Central Region

The Air Capital Wichita Chapter focuses on community service and leadership development in our activities. We embrace the theme of Power & Potential: Parents Empowering Youth. The Air Force One Teen Group enthusiastically assembled 75 snack bags to send to our troops. The snack bags included pretzels, granola bars, beef jerky, etc. The items are specifically requested by Give2theTroops.org. The organization serves as This year’s teen group is largely male and the teens had a great time assembling the bags with the knowledge that we are so fortunate. Our troops are in harm’s way and need our support. We talked about the legacy of Jack and Jill of community service and are humbled to be a small part of carrying the torch in our community.

Des Moines, IA

Central Region

In January 2013, the Des Moines Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated was honored for its impact on the Iowa community at the 15th Annual I’ll Make Me a World in Iowa. I’ll Make Me a World in Iowa (IMMAWII) is Iowa’s African American Festival drawing 15 – 20,000 patrons. The Chapter was recognized during the festival’s Embracing Excellence Gala, where Billy Dee Williams was the celebrity guest, winning the Heritage Legacy Award in the Leading Organization category. JJ teen Avery Jackson received the festival’s, Evelyn K. Davis Outstanding Youth Award. Des Moines chapter teens also known as Black Leaders of Tomorrow or BLTs, also placed second in the IMMAWII Black History Game Show and volunteered at the event. Every age group participated in IMMAWII which included IExploreSTEM, arts, cultural, health, and educational activities. Additionally in January, BLT’s received Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major of Service Award.

SCOPE 2013

83


Johnson County, KS

Central Region

The 9-12 age group had a very educational leadership development program on Sunday, October 21, 2012 presented by the Kansas City Police Department. Major Karl Oakman talked with the kids about making good choices, how important it to know your rights, and how to behave it approached by an officer. This program was inspired by the Trayvon Martin tragedy. Mothers felt it was important to have a discussion about the tragedy and a view from the police perspective.

Des Moines, IA

Central Region

Kansas City, MO Chapter is excited to report that our programming activities continue to exceed expectations. Our Visionary age group was exposed to a wonderful opportunity to build leadership through our very own “Power and Potential College Bound” workshop. The activity centered on developing college bound educational resumes to highlight our children’s academic heights, Leadership In Action endeavors, and community service participation. Furthermore, our enlightening activity focused on catering to each child’s academic interests. Each participant had an opportunity to explore college options such as HBCU’s vs. traditional colleges and universities. The workshop presenters also expounded upon the STE[+A]M initiative by mapping out potential programs and camps in which our children could participate in upcoming years. Our young achievers were actively engaged, and clamored around the presenters with a bombardment of questions. Kudos to our chapter, for continuing the Jack and Jill legacy of outstanding programming!

Tulsa, OK

Central Region

How can we know where we’re going if we don’t know where we’ve been? The Tulsa teens sought to answer this question by participating in a living tribute to icons of Black history. Barnes and Noble partnered with the Tulsa Chapter of Jack and Jill, providing a venue for the teens to physically portray various African American figures, while moving throughout the store, offering patrons their story and “autograph”. As this event was both a scavenger hunt and a fundraiser, those who obtained all autographs received a prize while the Jack and Jill Foundation benefitted from a percentage of all product sales. This experience afforded the teens the opportunity to not only gain knowledge of lesser known Black History facts for themselves, but also take a direct part in enlightening other children about them. 84

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Alexandria-Mt. Vernon, VA

Eastern Region

Throughout African American history, speeches have moved people of all races and continue to be reminders of our duty to push for justice and equality for all. With playful, age-appropriate topics, our children presented their arguments in a fun-filled atmosphere. They got to do what they love best…Speak Their Minds.

The Onyx group welcomed 2013, “arguably” with a bang! Professional Actor, Juan Pablo Veizaga, taught our tweens the “How To’s” of persuasive speaking and presenting. They chose selected topics, participated in mock debates with his guidance and coaching, then prepared for an actual debate against each other in teams. They were asked, “Can video games enhance learning for kids?” and “Should kids be allowed to run for President of the United States?” Armed with research findings, each team debated their position supporting or opposing each debate topic. FACT: Points Made, Opinions Discussed, Arguments Closed, Future Debaters Made.

Baltimore County, MD

Eastern Region

The Baltimore County Chapter Tweens embarked on a year-long Public Speaking workshop, consisting of several lessons over five months. Each child was guided on principles of successful public speaking, and received intense training in topic selection, posture, eye contact and delivery. There were technical and artistic lessons, and peer critiques, designed to offer helpful tips in delivering engaging speeches. We rotated homes, and the Public Speaking Series became a monthly social for the moms of the age group, fostering bonding, while the children participated in the workshop. In February, our Tweens were invited to the Pratt Library in Baltimore, where they hosted a Public Speaking Expo, attended by guests and local media. Each child delivered an original speech on various subjects related to the African-American experience. Topics included the evolution of rap music, the role African-American sports figures have played in American Culture, and African-Americans in the film industry.

SCOPE 2013

85


Bergan-Passaic, NJ

Eastern Region

The teens of the Bergen-Passaic Chapter have truly honed their leadership skills through the incredible programs they’ve created to benefit the children of the Paterson Boys & Girls Club (PB&GC). Under the guidelines of the Independent Grant awarded our chapter, our teens have successfully implemented monthly programs that include line dancing, paired reading, book selection tips, mini olympics and an election themed program where they read and discussed an Obama children’s picture book. During our recent chapter service project at the PB&GC, the teens were responsible for dividing over one hundred (100) children into four (4) age groups. They led each group throughout the club to their various activities, including a movement class with instructors from the prestigious Dance Theater of Harlem, making a “Project Sunshine” craft project - which were donated to Hackensack & Paterson Children’s Hospitals and served lunch to all in attendance!

Burke-Fairfax, VA

Eastern Region

On January 12, 2013, our Older Primaries (grades 1- 3) and Intermediates (grades 4-5) joined together for a seminar on ethical decision-making. Led by a Chapter dad, and hosted in the home of a Chapter mom, the training described key considerations that are part of the ethical decisionmaking process based upon Jack and Jill of America Inc.’s mission and core values. During the seminar, the children applied their new ethical decision-making framework to real-life scenarios (e.g., bullying, lobbying, campaigning, etc.) with a focus on impact and consequences. This seminar highlighted the importance of “Doing the Right Thing” in an interactive, challenging, and enjoyable manner.

86

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Manassas-Wood bridge, VA

Eastern Region

The parents of the Manassas-Woodbridge Chapter have been “empowering their youth through leadership development, cultural heritage and community service”. The etiquette workshop held for the senior teen group was a testament to this undertaking. Nineteen teenagers gathered for an evening of formal instruction on personal presentation; verbal and nonverbal communication; acceptable business etiquette for any job or academic setting; and fine dining. Presented by an etiquette consultant of the Etiquette and Leadership Institute, LLC , the format was interactive with practical exercises. The grand finale was the demonstration of dining etiquette at a local restaurant. Manassas-Woodbridge invited other neighboring chapters to participate in the event. The end result was a collaborative successful venture of three- teen groups mingling together. Another opportunity for Jack and Jill teens to network while receiving essential life skills; perfect timing as Teen Conference is right around the corner.

Montgomery County, PA

Eastern Region

Leadership is our focus for Program year 20122013. All age groups enjoyed our kick-off event celebrating Jack and Jill Day hosted by the Philadelphia Zoo with surrounding chapters. We’ve instilled leadership-inaction by engaging our teens to plan and execute chapter-wide activities such as our community service project held in conjunction with the Giving Tree Organization to instill a passion for service. Power & Potential for our teens is mastered by their participation in Leadership modules and the Washington DC Teen Leadership Summit. Our younger groups are being primed for leadership as evidenced by their activities steeped in learning about legislative, STE(A)M, and financial literacy projects via interactive venues: the National Constitution Center, collaborating with PNC Bank, voters registration drive, and exploring Black culture via the Harlem Renaissance multimedia walking tour in NY. After working hard our children are rewarded with family fun: annual Ski Trip, Black Family Day and COPA. SCOPE 2013

87


Nassau County, NY

Eastern Region

Nassau County’s Chapter held it’s 5th Annual Teen Leadership Summit on Saturday, 5 January, 2013, with the theme, “Power and Potential - Tools to Lead and Succeed”. This free, full-day program served 156 students from 28 local high schools and was designed to educate and equip students with the tools needed for future success. The Summit included workshops by professionals (including parents from our chapter) covering: Money and Time Management; Image Control; Public Speaking; Interviewing Skills; Preparing for College; as well as sessions in Career Exploration (encompassing S.T.E.M.); Networking; and a Dress for Success Fashion Show. Our Parent Workshops provided tools for parents to aid them in supporting their teens’ endeavors. County Executive Mangano presented a citation and local County Legislators (Abrahams and Troiano) added invaluable advice and encouragment to the students. The Summit was funded by a Jack and Jill Foundation grant, SUNY Old Westbury and the Nassau County Chapter.

Northern Virginia, VA

Eastern Region

2013 marks a time of celebration as it has been 150 years since the Emancipation Proclamation and 50 years since the March on Washington. The NOVA Jack & Jill teens were able to mark the occasion with a tour of the Changing America exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum of American History. They were able to explore the two crucial events and the impact we still feel today. Exhibits and lectures showed of the struggle of the famous individuals in history as well as many unknown groundbreakers.

88

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Southern Maryland, MD

Eastern Region

The Teens of the Southern Maryland Chapter fully embraced the national programming thrust of “Embracing the Power of Leadership Development.”

In September 2012, in remembrance of Carole Robertson, and in recognition of the 2012 election, the teens hosted a Rock the Vote Party. During which, they urged all to remember our responsibility as citizens to make our voices heard through the power of the ballot. On November 3rd, the teens had a chance to exercise their responsibility as citizen leaders. They were asked to tabulate the votes for the Piscataway Conoy Native American Tribal Council. In January 2012, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley signed executive orders confirming official state recognition of the Piscataway Conoy Tribe. The November 2012 ballot tabulation by the Southern Maryland teens was the first official election conducted by the tribe, since receiving state recognition.

Stamford Norwalk, C T

Eastern Region

The Stamford/Norwalk Chapter of jack and Jill respectfully submits in support of Nationals Programming Thrust Leadsership in Action. Our Dukes and Dutchesses group represents chidlrens in grades 5-8 grade. The group joined the festivities of the NAACP, Stamford Chapter, Freedom March. The group met at the Bethel AME Church in listened to different speakers & singers. Two of the members of our group volunteered to release green & white balloons in honor of the lives lost in the Sandy Hook tragedy. The group marched throughout downtown Stamford, singing freedom songs and talking about their own experiences with marching or their own issues for equality in the work place. Participating in the march allowed the children to get a feel for walking in someone else’s shoes, the struggles that others may face who look, walk & talk like themselves. Most of the children had very little knowledge or exposure to marching or other non-violent methods of demonstrating. After the march, the children were treated to a private, small group discussion with NAACP members who shared personal experiences with marching and how standing up for what they believed in at an early age ultimately changed his future. Through this program our children learned about leadership in action.

SCOPE 2013

89


Anchorage, AK

Far West Region

The Anchorage Chapter is proud of developing future leaders. Each year on the last Saturday in April, all groups participate in a National day of fitness by being a part of the longest foot race in Alaska. Known as the Heart Run, this race is a noncompetitive and competitive 5K affair. All are welcome and many attend this worthy event in the fight against the country’s number one and number three killers-heart disease and stroke. Our chapter members, family and friends take part in this active purposeful way to exercise as part of our Healthy Living Initiative. Our teens gain valuable skills by helping to facilitate the registration, advertisement and organization of the run. Working alongside many community volunteers the teens get to put to use the leadership skills they developed through their JMB leadership modules. This journey began many years ago, but the journey to excellence continues.

Fresno, CA

Far West Region

National Day of Service (Saturday, November 19, 2012) was a huge success in Fresno, California for the local chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. Briaunna Caver, Group 5 Vice President demonstrated her leadership skills by connecting her church, King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Fresno Chapter, Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church Outreach Department, with the members of Jack and Jill of America, Fresno Chapter. Together the organizations fed and clothed 204 homeless members of her community. Briaunna also collected enough toiletries to give all 204 women, men, and children a toiletry bag that contained soap, shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste. There was enough clothing for all men, women, and children to get three to four items each.

90 

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Oakland Bay Area, CA

Far West Region

The Oakland Bay Area Chapter Group 5 teens were successful in reaching their fund raising goal, which enabled them to provide a holiday meal for a family adopted by the Oakland Police Activity League. This is just one of several projects they are working on this year in the spirit of the Regional Community Service theme: “We Live to Give.”

In December, nine members of Group 5 participated in the Oakland Links Cotillion. Aria Charles, Amoni Brown, Keisha May and Simone Goldman were Debutantes. Andrew Daniels, Shaka Kendricks, Alex Guillory, Alexander Estes, James Alexander, Colin Leach, were Escorts. OBAC had the largest group of participants from any Bay Area Jack & Jill Chapter. At Cluster in Fresno, Senior, Terrence Ransom Jr. competed in the Oratorical competition and won first place in a field of eight contestants. He will represent Central Area in Phoenix at the Far West Teen Regional Conference.

South Los Angeles, CA

Far West Region

In embracing the national theme and developing our future leaders, the South Los Angeles Chapter partnered with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Los Angeles South Bay Chapter and the Carson NAACP to co-sponsor a “Get Out The Vote” community meeting on October 11, 2012 at the Central Baptist Church in Carson, California. The South Los Angeles Chapter teens greeted and signed in community members, seated honored guests, disseminated voter information packets, and collected questions from the audience. The teens prepared by discussing their own eligibility to vote, recent incidents of voter suppression, and the impact of this election on young people in South Los Angeles, including teen violence, education reform, college costs and debt, future careers, and job opportunities. Honored guests included Congresswoman Laura Richardson, Assemblyman Isadore Hall, Mayor Jim Dear, Council member Lula Davis- Holmes and Carson City Clerk Donesia Gause. SCOPE 2013

91


Fayetteville, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Fayetteville Chapter Teens kicked off the program year with their annual Carole Robertson Day Observance, an event held in conjuction with Jack and Jill Day. The Carole Robertson Tribute included the reading of Carole Robertson’s biography, recital of the poem, “To Carole Robertson”, recounting the Birmingham experience and finally a candle lighting ceremony. The teens also planned a North Carolina College Tour. A total of twenty participating teens and their guests visited the campuses of UNC-Chapel Hill and North Carolina Central University (HBCU), as well as participated in leadership and financial modules. This year’s service projects consisted of volunteering at the Second Harvest Food Bank and Christmas shopping on a budget for a local children’s home. Our teens also planned a very successful Flap-Jack fundraiser. The teens raised over $680 in support of the National Foundation. The Fayetteville Chapter is home for the Mid-Atlantic Regional Teen Chaplain, Martin Kendrick.

Richmond, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Richmond Chapter combined efforts with the Midlothian and James River Chapter for Jack and Jill Day and a tribute to Carol Robertson which was lead by our senior teens. During the Senior Teens Lock-in, they bonded and completed several teen modules. The senior teens had a private tour and completed financial modules at the Federal Reserve Bank. The Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving, giving back to the community was a priority for the teens, so they volunteered for the Giving Heart Community Feast. The holiday party gave the teens the opportunity to have fun and the experience of planning an event.

92

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Cincinnati, OH

Mid-Western Region

Quality programming is the cornerstone of a successful chapter and in the Cincinnati Chapter, we provide our Senior Teens with a solid mix of Leadership Development and College Preparation. Our Senior Teen Advisors expose our teens to exciting experiences that enhance their development as productive leaders and plan calendars early, so service, fundraising and career planning goals are met. Teen Programming is anchored in Power & Potential: Parents Empowering Youth. Each month, the teen advisors facilitate meetings for teens to complete a Leadership Development or Financial Literacy Module while bonding socially. Ongoing programs in Service include: Annual Breast Cancer Walk and Overnight Meeting, Thanksgiving Basket Project, National Day of Service, Boys & Girls Club Ohio Achievement Test Tutoring. Scholarship Development programs include: SAT/ACT Prep and College Admissions Officer Day; No Texting & Driving Initiative; Financial Planning/Goal Setting; Cluster Oratorical Preparation, and Black History Month Cultural Event.

Flint, MI

Mid-Western Region

The Flint Chapter would like to shine the spotlight on its very own Father’s Auxiliary and the wonderful programming that is happening this program year. Our teens are participating in a Toastmasters Youth Leadership program that is designed to develop speaking and leadership skills. Not only are the teens learning communication techniques and presentation skills, but they are also learning how to overcome nervousness when speaking in front of groups and how to organize and present ideas logically and convincingly. Moreover, our teens are learning fundamental listening skills and have posistioned themselves to build a solid foundation conducive for leadership success. Kudos to the Flint Chapter Father’s Auxiliary for their relentless support of our National Theme and the execution of an outstanding forum to maximize leadership development.

SCOPE 2013

93


Grand Rapids, MI

Mid-Western Region

Our Greater Grand Rapids Teens have planned their 2nd Annual Leadership Day for Saturday, March 23, 2013. In addition to completing their financial and leadership modules, Teens and Tweens will have an opportunity to tour a college campus, enjoy a networking lunch and participate in workshops to aid in preparing them for their college experience.This is a wonderful opportunity for our teens to put their leadership in action as they are a critical part of the planning committee for this event and will also serve as hosts to the other chapters.

Southwestern Michigan, MI

Mid-Western Region

The Southwestern Michigan Chapter Teens collaborated with State Farm Agent Sabrina Pritchett-Evans and Drive Safe Kalamazoo to pilot a program that promotes safe driving among high school students in a peer-to-peer model. Our Teens and these Partners developed a school-based public awareness campaign. Social media including Twitter and Face book were used to reach youth and raise public interest. Awareness material was designed including t-shirts, hats and posters . Posters were designed with 23.5.23 printed Large and Bold with the smaller print explaining the numbers (23% of accidents involve cell phones,5 seconds is the minimum distraction time while texting and driving, and an accident is 23 x more likely when texting and driving). The campaign culminates with a Drive Safe Week in the Spring of 2013 impeccably timed just prior to prom and senior activities. We are extremely proud of our Teens for displaying leadership in the community.

Clear Lake Bay Area, TX

South Central Region

The Clear Lake Bay Area chapter started the 2012 – 2013 program year with a strong focus on cultivating leaders. No child was left behind in our pursuit of providing opportunities to educate all age groups on effective leadership. In October, our Rockers (4th -5th grade) participated in a Golf Etiquette workshop that began with a lecture on the fundamental skills of golf intertwined with life skills. This highly interactive event introduced the children to Nine Core Values: Honesty, Integrity, Sportsmanship, Respect, Confidence, Responsibility, Perseverance, Courtesy and Judgment. As a kick-off to the November election, a Chapterwide event was held to educate our kids on the legislative process. Thundercats and Sidekicks (PreKindergarten – 3rd grade) created voting boxes, Rockers created ballots indicating each state’s voting strength, and the Jets and Challengers (6th – 12th grade) attended a lecture and ultimately utilized the ballots and voting boxes in the electoral college voting process. 94

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Greater Frisco, TX

South Central Region

Raising the bar with Greater Frisco has new momentum as the programming year launched! Financial and Leadership age group activities empowered our youth to promote “Rock your Vote,” “ELEVATE their SPEECH,” and “MIND their own BUSINESS.” Inspired by greater heights, the Greater Frisco Chapter and North Suburban Dallas Chapter have united to host Destination CEO: The Pursuit of Greatness. CEO’s come in all shapes and sizes but have one thing in common-a business sense and drive to turn ideas into reality. Destination CEO is teaching young leaders the building blocks to lead organizations and create jobs. Our future CEO’s will focus on future educational goals, career choices, earnings and ability to set financial goals, and devise budgets to develop savings. Topics such as Math Moves U, Technology of the Future and How to Make a Dollar? Making Money Ventures at a Young Age are sure to create “Power and Potential”.

San Antonio, TX

South Central Region

The San Antonio chapter had election fever. Jack and Jill teen and pre teen members participated in a “Rock the Vote” event days before the United States presidential election. Children were educated about the voting process and why voting is so important and crucial to our community and society. The Bexar County Democratic Party invited us to their headquarters and graciously hosted this event. Children watched videos about the 1965 Voting Rights Acts and the importance African-American vote today. They stuffed and labeled envelopes and called senior citizens and homebound voters to make sure they were registered to vote. The chapter was able to see all the goes into making the election process fair for everyone. They were taught that voting is a financial and social responsibility since voting can influence policies that affect the monetary and economic well-being of our community. This activity increased the kids’ passion for volunteering.

SCOPE 2013

95


Tyler/East Texas, TX

South Central Region

Tyler/East Texas Chapter kicked off Black History Month on February 2, 2013 with a Youth Leadership Summitt entitled “The Hero in Me”. Chapter President Donna Walker opened the program dressed in full hero attire including a pink Superwoman hat and cape. President Walker encouraged youth to become heros by making a difference in their communities. Jack and Jill Teens conducted the Prayer, History and Purpose and the Introduction of the Speaker. The keynote presentation on “Motivation, Leadership and Branding”, empasized African American heros who were ordinary people, inspiring youth to be heros by making the right choices in life. Breakout sessions included Service and Sacrifice, Internet Safety and Application to College. Inspirational Hero themed music was played softly during the program. Costume changes were made frequently by President Walker demonstrating heros must be versatile. Brunch and door prizes concluded the program. Our fathers auxillary provided security.

Albany, GA

Southeastern Region

Chapter Teens served as lead with an assigned Twix and Tween member to prepare meals for a family of four. The meals were to comply with the Jack and Jill Healthy Living Campaign and remain under a cost of $50.00 total for a week. Guidelines for the activity were facilitated by Mom Debra McFadden-Bryant. Each team was challenged to search grocery sale ads and clip coupons. This Leadership In Action project required chapter teens to mentor younger Jack and Jill(ers) as well as include lessons gained from the budgeting module. The team that came closest to budget and offered meals that were healthy for the family won a prize. Findings from the activity were presented by the Teens during an open discussion forum. {Pictured: Chapter Teen Erykah Baker (Recording Secretary, Regional Communications Board Member) offers her Budget proposal to the group}

96

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Columbus, GA

Southeastern Region

The Senior Teens of the Columbus, Georgia Chapter embraced the power of Leadership in Action when they spent a day shadowing Colonel Jeffrey Fletcher. Colonel Fletcher is the first African American Military Garrison Commander at Fort Benning, GA and is a Columbus native. Teens Kelsey Brown, Bryce Coleman, Kennedy Gamble, Jelani McGlan, Kayla Miller, David Parham, Kevin Scott, Bruce Simpson, Sarae Simpson, Marvin Smith, Lindsey Smith, and Cole Turner experienced a shadow day of leadership with COL Fletcher that included an orientation briefing, mini post tour, problem solving activity, housing tour, lunch, and a photo shoot in front of the National Infantry Museum. The year for the teens and middle schoolers has been filled with leadership development, learning about careers in science and technology, and cultural endeavors.

Daytona Beach Area, F L

Southeastern Region

On February 9, 2013, the Jack and Jill teens of the Daytona Beach Area Chapter volunteered at the Rose Marie Bryon Children’s Center. The Rose Marie Bryon Center provides after school care to children of elementary through middle school age. The teens washed windows and swept inside and outside of the facility. The teens also painted and picked up trash inside and outside the property. The center has a need to reorganize the reading/ study room where the after school children do homework, watch movies (on rainy days) and participate in various other activities. The Jack and Jill teens have committed to painting, cleaning and reorganizing the reading room from start to finish. The teens also plan to donate books to the center once the reading room is complete. The process will take several months but the teens are determined to complete the task.

SCOPE 2013

97 


Fayette County Area, GA

Southeastern Region

The Fayette County Area Chapter’s Tween Two group’s assembled at the Southern Belle Farm & Corn Maze to foster team building and leadership skills. The Tweens developed trust as they depended on one another while working together to exit the maze. The lesson was built upon the Principles of “Who Moved My Cheese” by Dr. Spencer Johnson. The four characters who live in a maze have their “cheese” (representing whatever is most important in their life) taken away and they each must all deal with this sudden unexpected change in their own way. Walking through unknown paths while in the maze developed and reinforced each Tween’s selfconfidence in the decisions that take them further through the Maze paths (symbolic of life’s journeys). They received directions at critical junctions in the maze based on the answers they provided about various topics.

Greater Tampa, F L

Southeastern Region

The Greater Tampa Jet Sets met at the Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Court House where they met the Honorable Judge Mary Scriven. After she explained various aspects about the U.S. Judicial system, they participated in a mock trial in which they watched a teaching video of a crime scenario, split into two juries, deliberated and returned to the courtroom to deliver the verdict. Following the mock trial and lunch, Judge Scriven and her staff discussed future judicial careers with the Jet Sets. The Jet Sets also asked Judge Scriven questions and gained insight as to how she chose her career. The day ended with a private tour of the courthouse given by real U.S. Marshalls, and viewing of federal prisoners on the monitoring screens.

98

SCOPE 2013


Leadership Development / Leadership in Action

Jackson, MS

Southeastern Region

Jackson, Mississippi Teens began their Leadership Retreat at the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO) Civil Rights Education Center located on the campus of Jackson State University. Established in 1962, COFO was created to coordinate voter registration and other Civil Rights activities in the state of Mississippi. Teens participated in an interactive session of their leadership modules, while utilizing their cell phones to study the modules. This retreat allowed teens to engage in Civil Rights and local history. Through a Scavenger Hunt, teens answered questions regarding five local sites. They also enjoyed visiting a local Television station, WLBT, where they were greeted by local news anchor, Mrs. Maggie Wade-Dixon. Mrs. Dixon provided the teens with an answer to the trivia question regarding the news station. The retreat concluded with a tour of the State Capitol of Mississippi where, Robert Johnson, father of two teens, serves as State Representative.

Jacksonville, F L

Southeastern Region

The Jacksonville Chapter successfully received a grant called “Fetching Pails of Success” which benefits K-5th grade students of S.P. Livingston Elementary School’s afterschool program. The Jack and Jill Teens began this 8-month reading program in October which includes planned activities that help generate skills and attributes that yield success. The teens meet once a month to engage and interact with the students. The Teen Leaders have done a fabulous job and are very excited, eager, and are always ready to be with the students. The next scheduled meeting will occur in January and will continue through May 2013. Our Dedicated Teen Volunteers for Fetching Pails of Success at S.P. Livingston Elementary School, Jacksonville FL include (from L to R) Ciera Rodgers, Malcolm Wilkes, Taylor Wynter, Austin Cannington, Erena Reese, and Kendra Nixon. Carly Allen not pictured.

SCOPE 2013

99


Legislative Advocacy

A

dvocacy means to give voice to an individual

County Virginia Chapter took their young elementary

or group whose concerns and interests are not

school students to a presidential campaign office. The

being heard, and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.,

Junior Teens from the Metropolitan Chapter hosted a

has long recognized that this is especially important

mock presidential debate. Philadelphia Chapter teens

when it comes to children. Our robust legislative

participated in a Political Campaigning 101 workshop;

advocacy agenda continues to promote policies at the

and teens from the Greater Albany Chapter dissected

local, regional and national level that are supportive of

two New York State bills in a workshop.

all children and their families. The 2012-2013 program

The Eastern Region was instrumental in organizing a

year has provided scores of opportunities for Jack and Jill mothers across the nation to weigh in on issues ranging from access to affordable healthcare to gun control. Members have in turn leveraged these opportunities to create programming to acquaint young children with the legislative process and empower teens to exercise their civic rights and responsibilities.

Children’s Legislative Forum held the weekend before the Presidential Inauguration that featured Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC); Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, a member of the Queens Chapter; and Jilliene Johnson, a CBC Fellow. In March, the Eastern Region organized a letter-writing campaign during the 63rd Annual Eastern

Under the leadership of Regional Director Joi Grady, the

Region Teen Conference in Boston, Mass., urging

Eastern Region embraced an ambitious legislative action

lawmakers to adopt responsible gun control legislation.

plan that began with legislative advocacy workshops at

Chapters across the region are also implementing the

the four Cluster Workdays, and an additional Legislative

Eastern Region’s Signature Legislative Event, a series of

Advocacy Training Webinar. Armed with a tool-kit of best

legislative forums designed to teach our children the

practices, members immediately got to work. For its Voter

power and importance of legislative advocacy.

Registration Drive, the Greater Union Chapter rented

A key issue impacting children in the region is hunger.

a voting machine to conduct mock voting scenarios; some attendees had never seen a voting booth. The Montgomery County Maryland Chapter joined forces with 13 community organizations to host a forum featuring candidates seeking office at the county level. The Prince George’s County Chapter hosted a Rock the Vote weekend event (attended by four additional area chapters) that featured a story-time presented by Prince George’s County Councilwoman Ingrid Turner, who read books centered on election themes, including “A Duck for President” and “Madam President.” The North Jersey Chapter held a “Path to the Presidency” modules workshop that presented information about everything from the symbols and beliefs of major parties to the biographies of major candidates. The Loudon 100

SCOPE 2013

Nearly one in five children in America lives in households that struggle to put food on the table, and African American households are more than twice as likely to be ‘food insecure’ as white households. In the Fall of 2012, the Eastern Region launched a Community Service initiative to Feed the Hungry by partnering with local food banks to feed 5,500 families – 100 families per chapter. Through food drives, walk-a-thons, serving meals, and other efforts, chapters in the region stepped up in a magnificent way, and as of February the region had contributed nearly 12,000 meals!

ShawnDya Simpson

Eastern Region, National Program Committee With Paulette Campbell & Mandinema Kumbula Fraser


Legislative Advocacy

Greater Hartford, C T

Eastern Region

The Greater Hartford Chapter began our year with a Jack and Jill Day Celebration that took us to the Farmington River for a day of kayaking. Our Imani group of children grade 3-5, explored Connecticut’s executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government through a program “The Three Branches of Government”. During this Three Branches of Government program at the Connecticut Historical Society, the children explored Connecticut’s executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government and discovered who makes the rules in Connecticut. To better understand the role of each branch, the group elected a governor and a lieutenant governor. They debated a bill and held a mock trial. There was a short, previsit worksheet and vocabulary list children were asked to work on with their parents before the activity.

San Jose, CA

Far West Region

The San Jose Chapter was proud to present two signature events: a Mock Legislative Summit (Summit) and a Community Family Development Series: “Bullying Beyond the Playground: Awareness, Strategies and Solutions.” At the Summit, city council members and lobbyists coached Jack and Jillers through the legislative process to learn about the responsibilities of a Legislator, the enactment of Legislation and adherence to Roberts Rules of Order. Students researched, debated and presented legislation to the general body before voting. And as a part of our community outreach, we invited students from East Palo Alto’s Boys & Girls Club to participate. “Bullying Beyond the Playground” was a signature event, which raised funds for the Boys & Girls Club. It featured a screening of the documentary, “Let’s Get Real”, and a panel discussion from notable city council members and community leaders. Attendees received valuable resources on how to effectively support youth affected by bullying.

SCOPE 2013

101


Greensboro, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

Derby City, KY

Mid-Western Region

The Greensboro Chapter strives to empower our youth through engaging leadership development programs. At our “Meet a Judge” activity, the Awesome Jammers (grades 1-3) and Junior Age Groups (grades 6 – 8) visited the courtroom of the Honorable Teresa Vincent, a member of our chapter. Judge Vincent discussed the roles of the judge, jury, and attorneys in the legal system and emphasized the importance of education. Our youth then observed Teen Court. Teen Court provides trials for first-time juvenile offenders pleading guilty to misdemeanors. Youth volunteers comprise the peer jury, and develop a sentencing contract to be completed within 90 days. Sentences included, among other things, community service, restitution and education. At the end of the session, the group met to discuss their opinions of the sentences and alternative resolutions. The group also discussed importance of making good decisions and being positive role models.

On January 21, 2013 the Derby City Chapter participated in a Presidential Inauguration program. This was a multi-group, family event covering the Legislative program category. The chapter conducted the following activities during the program: • All participants watched the Swearing In Ceremony • The Teen Group led the other children in a review of the Electoral College and Election Process • Group 3 led participants in a review of African-Americans in United States political history • Groups 1 and 2 colored and presented pictures of President Obama, The Obama for America symbol, the American Flag and the Presidential Seal. Such a good time was had that we were unable to do all the activities planned, including Obama Family Trivia: What If They Were a Jack & Jill Family and the Songs of America Word Search and performance. The day ended with a 75th Founder’s Day cake and punch reception.

102

SCOPE 2013


Legislative Advocacy

South Belt Houston, TX

South Central Region

Amid the campaign season verve, the South Belt Houston Chapter’s children engaged in educational and legislative activities to deepen their understanding of democratic and judicial processes. The Vision Keepers and Champs held a cookie election, involving them in various aspects of the election process before voting for their favorite cookie type. An interactive antibullying seminar for our Dreamers promoted bullying prevention and awareness, including information on bullying and what to do when one is bullied. The Young Achievers spent a morning in court with a local judge, learning about due process and functions of the court system before staging a mock trial in the courtroom. Our Teens Organized to Promote Society (TOPS) attended a distracted driving workshop at a driving school to increase awareness of teen driver safety and recently enacted legislation that addresses the high incidence of teen crashes due to distracted driving, specifically “texting while driving.”

Jackson, TN

Southeastern Region

Jack and Jill of America Incorporated - Jackson, Tennessee Chapter got a jump start on celebrating the 2013 Presidential Inauguration on the evening of January 19, 2013, by hosting ‘‘Faith in America’s Future’ - An Inaugural Celebration and Program. Our children and teens were involved in the program, where they presented inaugural facts from over the years and recited speeches and poems that were poignant and commemorative of this special and historic occasion. There was beautiful singing and even a re-enactment of the Presidential Oath. The program was then followed by a spectacular reception. A wonderful time was had by our moms, children, teens, and guests.

SCOPE 2013

103


Recreational / Social So·cial - [soh-shuh l] – is the act of pertaining to,

to engage in virtual and up close and personal

devoted to, or characterized by friendly companionship

discussions regarding the organization’s commitment

or relations; a social club.

to leadership development of our youth. Our Central

S

ocial skills are vital to our youth’s ability to lead, communicate, interact, relate culturally and connect with others effectively and efficiently

into their adult lives. An added value of social skills is that it is a competency, which aligns with social rules,

importance of knowing our cultural heritage, and sharing of chapter best practices for programming events is a key component to our youth’s power and potential for becoming outstanding individuals in our

socialization and relationship building. Jack and Jill

communities and society.

Social Programming provide opportunities for our

The Central Region considered to be the “Heart of

children and teens to showcase their ability to build

Jack and Jill & Putting Our Children First” is dedicated

a sense of community within their respective chapters.

to keeping the momentum, energy and drive strong as

Being friendly, outgoing or gregarious in a social

we move forward with planning for our summer Teen

setting helps to promote successful programming

Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas. Chapters across

and social skills, and when done in a positive manner

our region continue to provide innovative, creative

can have a lasting impact on peer relationships,

and resourceful programming that creates synergy

community outreach and educational objectives.

amongst our children, while enhancing their social

Through innovative and cutting edge programming,

skills. Central Region chapters engage their youth in

all that is purposeful and meaningful comes together

social programming and fundraising events such as:

for our youth to work and play together.

Dining with Santa, social etiquette, museum tours,

The Courageous, Compassionate, and Confident

dance productions, summer outdoor concerts, dinner

Mothers of the Central Region began the year

movie nights, step practices, and cooking classes.

“Connecting the Dots” under the tireless leadership

Character Building is one of the leadership modules

of Regional Director Natalie Brunson-Wheeler and

our region deems important for sustainable social

her Regional Team of exceptionally dedicated and

skill development, and is practiced by all. The true

committed mothers. They remained focused, diligent

understanding of relationships and the art of being

and hardworking mothers determined to carry their

social is both directly and indirectly dependent on

torches in support of the National Theme of “Power &

others, and is most impactful where the relationships

Potential: Parents Empowering Youth”.

between the learners and teachers are recognized

Chapters throughout the region stepped up in

and leveraged to get the maximum benefit.

phenomenal fashion to attend Workday Clusters.

Monica Moton Williams

Mothers listened attentively as regional and national leadership rolled out the new program objectives and expectations. Mothers were also given opportunities 104

Region mothers recognized and understood the

SCOPE 2013

Central Region

National Program Committee


Recreational / Social

Kansas City, KS

Central Region

During the 2012-13 program year, the Kansas City, KS chapter hosted the area mother’s workday cluster. We celebrated Carole Robertson Day with fellowship and a family bowling activity. We provided community service for the Uriel Owens Sickle Cell Chapter in Kansas City, Kansas by assisting at their annual christmas party for children with sickle cell and their families. Our teen group volunteered at a local transitional housing shelter by cleaning apartments and organizing donated food, toiletries, and bedding. Our Black History program celebrated our Jack and Jill history and the talent of our youth.

Chester County, PA

Eastern Region

On September 22, 2012; Chester County chapter along with 8 Eastern Regional chapters celebrated “Jack and Jill Day” hosted by The Philadelphia Zoo. This momentous event was initiated by the Philadelphia Zoo to celebrate Jack and Jill of America Inc.’s legacy and involvement in the community. This celebratory event included educational activities, entertaining programs and fun festivities for 700 members. Young members were allowed to pet and learn about small animals. The Tweens participated in a zoo wide scavenger hunt and the Teens attended a college workshop. Jack and Jill chapters participated in a short program to honor Carole Robertson in a candle lighting ceremony. Jack and Jill of America, Inc. has been effecting change and improvement through service for 75 years, it is a humbling feeling to be recognized for our purpose, achievements, and our legacy.

SCOPE 2013

105


Reston, VA

Eastern Region

In October 2012, the Reston Chapter hosted a Mock Trial Event with Judge Donald Haddock, Jr. of the Alexandria General District Court. The children learned about the judicial process by touring an unoccupied jail facility and the judge’s chambers. They also participated in a mock trial, where they studied a fact pattern and played the judge, prosecutors, defense attorneys, defendants and witnesses. The Reston Chapter continues to participate in cultural and recreational activities, including an underground railroad hike, kayaking and swim party. STE[+A]M activities include a sleepover at The Baltimore Aquarium and an Earth Day program. All children perform community service activities such as preparing/ serving meals to the homeless and participating in the Light the Night Walk to raise money for cancer. The Chapter’s major fundraiser, its biennial Cotillion-Beautillion Ball was held in November, with proceeds to benefit local high school graduate scholarships and the Jack & Jill Foundation.

South Jersey, NJ

Eastern Region

In honor of our organization’s 75th Anniversary, the members of the South Jersey Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. hosted a Jack and Jill Legacy Breakfast on Saturday, January 26, 2013. At this event, we honored seven amazing individuals who have carried on the Jack and Jill legacy in the areas of Health, Social Services, Education, Religion, Business and Technology, Law and Justice and the Arts. This year’s honorees include Vicki St. Martin, Dorothy Harper, Benjamin White, Lynn Johnson, Navarrow Wright, Michael Bolden and Ricardo Khan. This event was an exciting affair for our anticipated 350 guests, many of whom were past members of the South Jersey Chapter. We celebrated the legacy of our organization and honored our commitment to serve the community by donating to the Jack and Jill Foundation and various charities selected by our seven honorees.

106

SCOPE 2013


Recreational / Social

San Francisco, CA

Far West Region

During the holidays, we gathered for food, fun and a holiday hike in beautiful Marin County, CA. Kids and adults played basketball, danced Gangnam-style and enjoyed a 5-star brunch. In addition, our kids celebrated their awesome dads with a pinning and other tributes.

Raleigh Wake, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

Raleigh Wake Chapter started the year with our second annual “Jack and Jill Ran Up The Hill 5K.” This was also our Jack and Jill Day celebration. All age groups and families volunteered in several capacities and took part in the 5K. The run proceeds benefitted The Boys and Girls Club and Jack and Jill Foundation. Raleigh-Wake Children also took part in NC Legislative Day by getting out and helping citizens register to vote. They were able to fully engage citizens on how important the 15th amendment to the constitution is to all.

SCOPE 2013

107


Dallas, TX

South Central Region

This year 2013 will be known as another historic year for the nation with the second inauguration for President Barack Obama. A day filled with pomp and exuberance that celebrated some interesting facts about our nations history. The 2013 inauguration took place as the nation commemorated the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. In his ceremonial swearing in, Mr. Obama used two bibles – a “traveling bible’’ that belonged to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and another that belonged to Lincoln that was used during his first inauguration. These facts were taught to the ‘Cherubs’ ages two through five years as they celebrated the day with an Inagural Ball. The beautiful children were dressed to impress and beaming with pride in the richness of our history and the joy of our future.

Greater Huntsville, AL

Southeastern Region

Families of the Greater Huntsville Chapter attended the Huntsville Stars game together. The children were treated to a personal introduction to a team player who escorted to them personally to their seats and had interaction allowing the children to ask questions. Several Jack and Jill children were selected to participate in the games held between innings with several prizes won including box seats to a Stars game. Bookmarks with a picture and facts about the life of Carol Robertson were developed by a Greater Huntsville Mom and provided to each child in attendance. An exciting conclusion ended the evening with OUR player scoring the wining run. This rewarding event provided an unhurried evening of cherished family time for the entire chapter.

108

SCOPE 2013


Recreational / Social

Orlando, F L

Southeastern Region

The Orlando Chapter kicked off the programming year by building a healthy community at Jack & Jill Day 200 where children and adults experienced various types of physical activity such as zip lining, tubing and even rolling in a giant hamster ball. We offered healthy drinks, grilled food, nutritious snacks, fruit and vegetarian items. Our children have made an impact in the community by organizing a clothing drive and distributed the collected items at the Women’s Shelter in Orlando. Food items were donated and placed in food baskets and later given to needy families for Thanksgiving. Our Sr. teens are leading the way with Leadership in Action (LIA) Module activities. Teens and family members took part in voter canvassing encouraging citizens to vote and/or vote early. They also participated in a business segment that discussed not only a scientific mind, but the creativity that would engage the Arts as well.

SCOPE 2013

109 


STE(+A)M / Education

E

ngagement

in

Science,

Technology,

Engineering, Arts, and Math or STEAM, as it is

STEAM,

lovingly referred to, is fundamental to a bright

Community Service, Leadership and Leadership in

Cultural

Heritage,

Financial

Literacy,

future. In our technology driven world, Jack and Jill

Action!

has acknowledged that in order to create the leaders

goals and aims of our national organization. Teen

that our society needs, we must equip them with the

Conference continues the excitement with the theme

skills and provide them with experiences which will

of “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” It

ignite the fire of curiosity within them which will guide

is sure to be another record breaking conference as

them down the path of success.

our teens descend on the Katy-Prairie View area with

Once again, Jack and Jill of America has joined

a day of city beautification projects as their community

South Central believes in supporting the

with the Obama Administration in an urgent call to

service project.

action. And once again, Jack and Jill has answered.

South Central is home to one of our nation’s cultural

The programming thrust of STEAM is meant to inspire

gems- the great city of New Orleans!

chapters to engage, expose, and excite children about

Big Easy is known for many things, the families of

the wonders of STEAM with the hopes of building their

Jack and Jill visited for our regional trip over the

skills, breaking down stereotypes, and encouraging

MLK weekend to enjoy the rich history as only New

them down the path of a STEAM-related career or

Orleans can share. Our families enjoyed plantation,

business.

museum, and city tours along with Big Easy family style

The Sensational Mothers of the South Central

entertainment. Let the Good Times Roll! “Laissez Les

While the

Region under the energetic leadership of Regional

Bon Temp Roulez!”

Director Millie Mitchell are celebrating 60 Years of

The regional teen officers, led by Regional Teen

building strong leaders. Our regional theme which

President Nelson Winrow are determined to provide

embodies that spirit is “AIMing for Timeless Service”

leadership development opportunities for their fellow

and is evidenced through the many service projects

teens. The officers will conduct Teen Leadership

throughout our region. Whether we were mentoring

Summits in the four Centers of Excellence in early

in Title 1 schools, feeding the hungry, or walking to

2013. Another highlight of the teen agenda is the

end breast cancer, the families of the South Central

annual Regional Day of Service.

Region did it a testament to our legacy of service.

2013, teens from across the region will work in their

Area Work Day was hosted by the Austin, TX chapter

respective chapter communities delivering on their

and featured training and motivational speakers to

obligation to be of service.

get our mothers equipped to lead and implement

Melissa Johnson

our new thrusts. South Central is excited about our new programming thrusts!

Under the guidance of

Children’s Cluster Chair Sativa Leach- Bowen (Arlington 110

Chapter), each Children’s Cluster will incorporate

SCOPE 2013

South Central Region

National Program Committee

On March 2,


STE(+A)M / Education

Bloomington-Normal, IL

Central Region

The Bloomington-Normal motto for the 2012-2013 Program year is “Connecting the DOTS by “Driving Out Targeted Strategies!” Our chapter selected this motto to kick off the year, because we felt it aligned with our new program thrusts of STE+AM. In the words of Apple founder Steve Jobs:

“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.” Our chapter’s goal is to live by example in the community and hold these inspirational words of Steve Jobs near and dear to our hearts. As a result, our chapter kicked the program year off at State Farm Park with a Backyard Barbeque Bash to celebrate Jack and Jill Day with a very festive and commemorative tribute to “Carole Robertson” by having our children and teens perform cultural heritage pieces, a Reader’s Theater, and step show.

Oklahoma City, OK

Central Region

The National Theme, “Power & Potential: Parents Empowering Youth through Leadership, Development, Cultural Heritage and Community Service”, has been the central focus of our Oklahoma City chapter programming this year. We would like to take an opportunity to highlight one of our very unique chapter activities. One of our most notable events this year was a mock trial entitled “Sista Locks and the Three Bears”. Written by one of our very own mom’s, this play incorporated three of our children’s groups; Humpty, Dynamite, and Twix-Teens. The Humpty’s and Dynamite’s acted out most of the play, and the Twix-Teens served as jurors. This play was utilized to provide an easy to understand example of how our justice system works and provide our children insight on how the trial process plays out. This play satisfied our legislative and educational criteria. We have already experienced a successful first half of the year and hope to continue to thrive and become even more dynamic in the second half, while we fulfill our theme and uplift our youth. SCOPE 2013

111


Greater Harrisburg, PA

Eastern Region

Having fun and learning about science through hands on experience were the activity goals as the children of the Greater Harrisburg Area Chapter spent an active day at Cherry Crest Farms. Our families participated in fall activities such as pumpkin picking and riding the giant hay chute slide. The children also bonded with one another while chasing on pedal karts and successfully navigating obstacle courses. They had the opportunity to explore and appreciate agricultural heritage in Pennsylvania at the Farm Animal Center where they observed and handled baby chicks at the hatchery, fed a goat, and learned about the habitat of farm animals. Our fun day came to a close as the children embarked on an instructive wagon tour of the farm to learn interesting facts on farming and agriculture. Even at young ages, our smallest Jacks and Jills understand that learning can be fun!

Loudoun County, VA

Eastern Region

Loudoun County Virginia Chapter has fully embraced the STE[+A] M initiative with the “Bricks4Kidz” program for our Daffodils and Dinos (ages 2-5). Our little ones used lego’s of all sizes and colors to stimulate their creative play and learning as part of this very unique program. Beyond the fun factor, the easily interlocking combinations provided more than one hour of patten practice and fine motor development for the afternoon. This fun activity strenghtened their sorting skills, supplementing a key part of their Kindergarden math curriculum. The group learning activities encouraged our children’s creativity and teamwork. LCVC has applied for a grant to allow our Chapter to bring the STE[+A]M program to Loudoun County.            112

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

Morris County, NJ

Eastern Region

On November 17th, 2012, our Group 3 children (grades 3 through 5) participated in a Young Playwrights’ Workshop. Led by Jane Keitel, a resident artist with the Playwright’s Theatre of New Jersey, the children learned improvacting using various scenarios. They worked together to create, write and perform an original play called “Grandma’s Miracle” about Thanksgiving and the value of family. In addition, they wrote and performed an original song about Thanksgiving turkeys. Through this creative and fun activity, our children exercised their imaginations, stretched their performing abilities and learned how to better appreciate the performing arts. They also practiced how to perform in front of an audience and work together as a team. It was an extraordinary and enriching event.

Prince William County, VA

Eastern Region

Our middle school students participated in the Inova Heart and Vascular Institute’s “Dome Experience”- a unique educational program that allowed them to witness an open-heart surgery firsthand while learning how healthy – and not-so-healthy – lifestyles can impact their own heart health.

The day began with a pre-test that assessed their knowledge of heart diseases, and risk factors. They also passed around vials of saturated fat that depicted fats found in some of our favorite foods such as french fries and candy bars. Then they observed an aortic valve replacement surgery, during which the doctor used a pig valve to replace the patient’s own aortic valve. The attending nurse was able to explain the surgery step-by-step, and the participants found the gory details quite fascinating. The experience was an excellent way to increase awareness of heart diseases in students and to learn about a variety of healthcare careers. SCOPE 2013

113


Contra Costa County, CA

Far West Region

Contra Costa County Chapter has made a conscious effort to improve our programming across all age groups with fun, engaging activities grounded in one of our thrusts. We’ve put particular emphasis on the STEM areas and Financial Literacy. We are especially proud of a recent activity for Group 1 that focused solely on financial literacy.

Group 1 learned the value of different coins through a scavenger hunt and an age-appropriate lesson on monetary denominations. They then had an opportunity to use the coins they collected at the “store” where they could purchase treats and small toys. This helped them to understand the concept of purchasing items for a price, receiving change and saving money. The activity received rave reviews from children and mothers alike. As for Group 5, Financial Literacy takes the form of lessons on saving for college, financial aid packages and making healthy decisions regarding money in college.

North County San Diego, CA

Far West Region

It our duty and responsibility as parents to ensure that we provide our children with opportunities that will sharpen their scientific and technological skills, and to that end the North County San Diego Chapter organized a trip to the Apple Store. Our purpose was to provide an activity where our children would experience an excited opportunity to learn about one of the most exciting advances that Apple has created, the iMovie. Our children partnered with one another and developed a movie concept and saw it through to fruition resulting in a movie trailer starring themselves which they were able to view and share with everyone who attended. Additionally, our children were allowed to take home a copy of their moviie trailer along with an Apple certificate certifying they had completed the Apple iMovie course and a t-shirt as a souvenir.

114

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

Tri-Valley, CA

Far West Region

Every seven minutes in America, someone becomes blind. Tri-Valley’s Group 3 visited the California Campus of Guide Dogs for the Blind, based in San Rafael, CA. The school, founded in 1942 to aid military servicemen returning from WWII, focuses on training Golden and Labrador Retrievers to become guide dogs for the legally blind. Two campuses, in California and Oregon, service clients from all walks of life throughout the US and Canada. Its programs are fully funded by private donations and services are provided free of charge. The docent volunteer who was also a guide dog breeder and very informed in the training process, led activities that kept the children fully engaged. They learned about tools used in training, how best to interact with a guide dog on duty and visited the kennels and the onsite veterinary clinic. Handouts, bookmarks and age appropriate activities rounded out this most educational visit.

Tucson, AZ

Far West Region

Our Jack and Jill day was exceptional! We rotated the children by groups between a series of mom led learning adventures. Laila discussed the importance of good nutrition, oral hygiene, and selecting healthy snacks. Ninevah engaged a discussion on our country’s legislative process and the importance of being civically engaged. MiaMichelle’s station included a hands-on project where the children prepared a prayer for their mothers. Maya prepared lessons on financial literacy that included the importance of differentiating between “needs” and “wants”. The children were given an allowance and the opportunity to shop in the Jack and Jill market. Those who budgeted appropriately earned interest on their savings. Maya also shared the importance of proper credit management with the teens. Lisa organized the giving corner where the children assembled personal hygiene packages and gently used children’s books donated by each family. It was a wonderful afternoon for member families and guests!

SCOPE 2013

115


Capital City, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Capital City Chapter empowered their youth through leadership development with the STEAM initiative. The Pathfinders (4th and 5th graders) visited the Vascular Lab of WakeMed hospital in Raleigh, NC. Dr. Kirk Charles, a vascular surgeon with WakeMed Health Systems, Director of the WakeMed Vascular Lab and Capital City dad, taught this educational activity. Dr. Charles led the group on a tour of the Angiographic Suite, the exam room and the exam equipment. The Pathfinders had a quick lesson in anatomy, learned what a vascular surgeon does and experienced how to read an x-ray. The Jack and Jills were able to dress like a surgeon, learn the proper scrubbing technique and do a surgical procedure on chicken parts. They were also taught the business side of being a doctor. All of the children really enjoyed this activity especially the Jack, whose dream is to be a surgeon.

Chesapeake, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Chesapeake Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. has eagerly joined the fight, along with other local chapters, to raise cancer awareness. We have actively participated in this fight by educating our community, and also by attending health fairs throughout Hampton Roads. The members of The Chesapeake Chapter participated in the “5K Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk” in September 2012. Our Chapter has supported this event annually with an outpouring of love and support from friends, and relatives. This past year we had the opportunities to not only participate in the Breast Cancer Walk, but pledged and were a part of supporting the efforts made towards $300,000 raised for this great cause. A lot of our inspiration has come from the testimonies of survivors, young and old alike. The members of The Chesapeake Chapter are steadfast in their commitment to help as much as humanly possible to support finding a cure for Breast Cancer.

116

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

Conway, SC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Conway Chapter began their programming year with a family activity in which the Conway families joined members of the community in a meet and greet session for two of the original Tuskegee Airmen. As Conway families gathered to “meet the Red Tails”, they got an opportunity to hear these historic giants tell about their experiences, obstacles and achievements. This event gave the Conway Moms an opportunity to impress upon their children the importance of valuing the sacrifices of those who have come before them. The day ended with an opportunity for the children to explore the field of aeronautic science with tours of real planes and helicopters, and go up for flight experiences.

Durham, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

On December 8, 2012, all age groups in the Durham chapter participated in an afternoon focusing on cultural heritage through the prism of arts and literature. The preschool through upper elementary age groups attended a book launch party celebrating local author and Raleigh-Wake chapter mom Kelly Starling Lyons’s latest book, Tea Cakes for Tosh. Starling Lyons has written several books for children celebrating the unique heritage of African Americans, a topic she dramatized with a reading from her work. The event also featured music, crafts, and a Q&A session with the audience. Immediately prior to the launch party Starling Lyons, also a journalist, hosted a private artist’s studio session for the junior and senior teens where she discussed careers in literature and journalism. She shared her life experiences leading her to enter both fields, and gave the teens advice on how to chart their own journeys.

SCOPE 2013

117


Eastern North Carolina, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

“Loving The Skin I’m In”  On February 9th, all of the children of the Eastern North Carolina Chapter were invited to the Pitt County Arts Council at Emerge to explore diversity and individualism through the arts. A self portrait workshop was conducted by local artist Peerless Speller for the two youngest grade groups. Mr. Speller and the children were assisted by members of the ECU Football Team and Miss Black Greenville, April Carr. Their activities also included the receiving and reading of their own copy “The Skin I’m In” by Sharon Flake and snack time. The older grade groups were treated to a playwriting workshop with East Carolina University Professor Dr. Patricia “Patch” Clark, Dr. Clark’s speciality is Youth Theater. Dr. Clark guided the children through the creative process of writing and performing their very own play, hi-lighting famous minorities through out history.

Gastonia Piedmont, NC

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Cubs, Cougars and Bobcats (Grades Pre-K through 8th grade) of the Gastonia Piedmont Chapter gathered together to explore science and have great educational fun with the Scientist Rocket Ryan. Rocket Ryan led the workshop for the children with assistance from several chapter moms. The children had an opportunity to complete science experiments that included making gummy candy, silly putty, space mud, creating an erupting volcano as well as creating a tornado in a closed system. They also learned while using scientific equipment such as cylinders, beakers and pipettes. There were 23 Jack and Jill’s, 15 Moms and 2 Dads in attendance. The activity concluded with snacks and drinks and more games. One of the final games included each child introducing a fellow Jack and Jill, and giving some information about that child. A great time was enjoyed by all of those in attendance.

118

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

Roanoke Valley, VA

Mid-Atlantic Region

The Roanoke Valley Chapter of Jack and Jill took an educational visit to Virginia Tech Carillion’s School of Research and Medicine. The children received a tour by founding Director Dr. Michael Friedlander, who spoke about the variety of research that was done at the institute to create a bridge between basic science research and clinical expertise. The children toured student classrooms and learned more about current research studies being done on brain education. The physician shortage was discussed and ways that our children can look into the field if they have an interest.

Cleveland, OH

Mid-Western Region

The Cleveland Chapter of Jack & Jill of America’s 3rd and 4th grade activity group participated in an activity to educate them about the Presidential Inauguration. Their day began with a litany of activities symbolizing the opening worship service of the nation’s leaders followed by a mock processional to the Capitol. The students took part in a question and answer session about the duties of President and Vice-President as they assumed the roles of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. A fourth grader and third grader respectively were both sworn in and recited their individual oaths of office. In place of an inaugural speech, each child completed and read an essay entitled, “If I were President, I would...” A celebratory inaugural luncheon was enjoyed by all. After the meal, each child designed their own Presidential seal and the festivities closed with a parade showcasing their seals.

SCOPE 2013

119


Columbus, OH

Mid-Western Region

The Columbus, Ohio Chapter was awarded the Jacqueline Robinson Regional Award Grant at the 40th National Convention and utilized the funds for our College Bound, College Successprogram. This funding provided resources to host a full-day, college readiness workshop for middle and high school aged students from the Boys and Girls Club of Columbus, Columbus City Schools and other community organizations. The kick-off event was held on October 20, 2012 at The Wellington School. Sponsorship and workshops were provided by: The Ohio State University, The Wellington School, Greater Columbus Community Helping Hands, Inc., Ohio Wesleyan University, Fifth Third Bank, Huntington Bank, Capitol University, former Ohio State University and professional basketball player Lawrence Funderburke, and various community professionals. Columbus Chapter Junior and Senior Teens displayed their leadership skills by assisting in facilitating the event; and a few of our Jack and Jill graduates participated via SKYPE and in person.

Louisville, KY

Mid-Western Region

Louisville cheaper jack and Jill senior teens spent the day exploring their civic and cultural history and the legacy of Muhammad Ali at the historic Ali center in Louisville Kentucky this past November. Going to an Afican-American culture and history muserum gives the children more selfawareness. Also more eagerly to learn more about their culture. The day was marked by a game of election “ Jeopardy” and a civic and culturally based scavenger hunt.

120

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

Motor City, MI

Mid-Western Region

The Motor City Jaguars hosted the annual College Rap Session on Saturday, December 29, 2012. The event was sponsored by St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Health Care System and attended by teens from the Detroit, Flint, North Oakland Macomb, Oakland County and Ypsilanti Chapters. This year, the teens added a community service component to the College Rap by inviting teens from local area schools. Jack and Jill alumni represented the following schools: Boston University, Central Michigan University, College of Wooster, Grand Valley State University, Howard University, Michigan State University, Hampton University and Yale University. Each member of the panel shared personal insight about their college experience and teens had the opportunity to ask questions of the panel. Concurrent with the College Rap, parents participated in a workshop presented by Jeff Taylor, a certified college planner who counseled parents on finding resources to help defray college costs.

North Shore, IL

Mid-Western Region

n October, 2012, Groups I and II visited The Grove National Historic Landmark in Glenview, Illinois. The youth participated in a nature program that included a tour of the Interpretive Center and trails lead by a staff member. The exhibits included snakes, turtles, various water species, and other animals along with learning about Native American customs and folk lore. Learning about animals and Illinois’ natural history provided opportunities for the children to observe natural habitation. The Grove is located on 123 acres including a wetland walkway on a pond.

SCOPE 2013

121 


Western Cook County, IL

Mid-Western Region

The Western Cook County Chapter children of Group 3 attended a class at RobotCity Workshop. The focus was the new Program Thrust: STE [+A]M. The activity allowed each child to build their own “Smart Robot”.

The children, with guidance from their instructor, twisted every wire and tightened every screw. The room was filled with lots of chatter and many questions. There were definitely a lot of “whys” and “what happens ifs”. The instructor answered many of the questions through demonstration. In one case, the motor of a robot would not work because the wires were not connected. There was also an instance where the robot spun backwards because things were connected differently. The children were able to learn through their mistakes, and their excitement was contagious. Once all the robots came to “life”, there were races, contests, and pure excitement over the personal creations.

Ypsilanti, MI

Mid-Western Region

Group III had an outstanding opportunity to go flying in general aviation airplanes for 15 minutes with volunteer pilots. They took off and landed at the CantonPlymouth Mettetal Airport. As part of this experience the children were able to ask questions about careers in aviation including educational requirements to be successful. They received a brief history lesson about aviation from a STEM perspective. They learned that the aviation industry will need 466,650 pilots in the next twenty years as well as aeronautical engineers to help design the circuit boards and the instrument panels for planes. Last but not least, the children learned about African American pilots; Eugene Jacques Bullard the first AfricanAmerican combat pilot and Bessie Coleman, the first African-American to earn a pilot’s license. The children had a STEAMSATIONAL day and the Ypsilanti Chapter might have a budding Pilot or Engineer in our midst. 122

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

Beaumont, TX

South Central Region

The Art Museum of Southeast Texas became the center for exploration and inspiration for the 6-8 year old Beaumont Jack and Jill members. Our students were introduced to contemporary artists who depict what they see in their environment around them with the use of oils, still photography, and by using recyclable goods. The students got to see the work of Beaumont’s own Felix “Fox” Harris, an African American artist who creates beauty from what others would consider junk. Students also toured the museum and witnessed work by Sarah Williams, David H. Gibson, and ceramic work from the San Angelo Museum from San Angelo, TX. At the conclusion of the tour, our children were asked to create their own art with the use of watercolors. Our students found this activity educational and inspirational, receiving a bonus lesson in museum etiquette.

Humble Kingwood, TX

South Central Region

On October 13, 2012, the Ener-Jetics (Grades 1 – 3) embraced the power of leadership and STEaM by “Taking Flight at Texas Southern University.” TSU’s Department of Aviation Science and Technology faculty and staff hosted the event and provided the kids with in-depth information about careers in Aviation, particularly as a pilot or air traffic controller. The highlight of the day was when the Ener-Jetics acted as aviators and played on flight simulators. Pilot Major General John Bailey II read to the kids from his newly released memoir, “Up from the Fields.” Major General Bailey (Retired) is the first African-American to lead the Texas Air National Guard. TSU is the only Historically Black College and University in Texas that offers a degree in Aviation.

SCOPE 2013

123


Katy Prairie View, TX

South Central Region

Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” The Katy-Prairie View Chapter believes wholeheartedly in molding and creating young artists that will carry on the legacy and dream of Picasso and most importantly, many of our African American artists. As part of our growing efforts to incorporate leadership development through STE[A+]M, our Prince & Princess group visited Pinot’s Palette in an effort to broaden their inner artistic abilities. Each child was provided their own apron, an easel with canvas, brushes, and paint. The little artists were actively engaged as they created their Thanksgiving Turkey masterpieces. Mothers observed how thankful they were as they finalized their special and unique pieces. Our goal is to continue to spark the flame in all aspects of the arts by giving our future kings & queens an outlet to shine these areas.

Missouri City-Sugar Land, TX

South Central Region

On February 2, 2013, the Guys and Dolls (3rd-5th Grade) of the Missouri City-Sugar Land Chapter of Jack and Jill celebrated Black History month and the arts with renowned artist Ted Ellis. Mr. Ellis is known for his African-American themed art which include: Obama, the 44th President, Thee Baptism, Prayers Heal and Surviving Katrina. Painting with a Black Heritage Twist activity encompassed educational, cultural along with the arts portion of our STE[+a]M national thrust. Our Guys and Dolls participated in the painting session where they learned about paintings by famous African-American artist Jacob Lawrence and had the opportunity to replicate his work using primary colors for which he is known. This outstanding activity gave the children the opportunity to learn more about important African-American artists of the same heritage and how they too could become aspiring artists. These young artists will be proud of their art for years to come.

124

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

North Texas, TX

South Central Region

The North Texas Chapter Spurs and Chili Peppers enjoyed a day at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. Naturally inquisitive, our youngest children explored a variety of vintage and modern aircraft. As a part of the exhibit, the boys and girls engaged in interactive activities that created a new awareness of the science of flight. Through the Children’s Discovery Center, they were able to participate in “hands-on” flight and space demonstrations and even pretended to fly some of the planes on exhibit. Among the event highlights was a visit with a World War II veteran who shared inspirational stories about his service in Normandy. He also shared stories about his close friend, Tuskegee Airman Calvin Spann, and detailed the valuable contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen, as the kids viewed the Tuskegee Airman exhibit. Our children will forever remember their museum visit and their opportunity to examine man’s exploration of flight.

Augusta, GA

Southeastern Region

The Augusta Chapter explores new levels of creating educational opportunities. In November, our chapter came together for the second time during the Presidential Election to coordinate an Election Night. Our purpose was to continue to educate our youth about the voting and electoral process. We included visual details to make an even more exciting and evening with various websites projected with the electoral map and children friendly information. All children drew the name of a state and colored in the state on the display map as each states vote was finalized. Teens, Mothers and Fathers helped our youth with the various activities.

SCOPE 2013

125


Greater North Atlanta, GA

Southeastern Region

Greater North Atlanta Chapter, collaborating with 410 Bridge, a non-profit organization, supports GNAC teens demonstrating social responsibility through educational and nutritional programs.

GNAC pre-teen Kamar Skeete, a 5th grader at Atlanta International School, presented a Bioponics Aquarium during a school Exhibition Forum. He demonstrated a sustainable agricultural system that will be used to convert traditional greenhouses in 15 rural villages near Nairobi, Kenya. This method, which cultivates vegetation and decreases dependency on limited water supplies, will be the foundation for a nutrition program in thirty schools. Jessika Bassil, a GNAC senior, is raising awareness about inadequate access to electricity in rural areas in Kenya and its impact on education by selling LED wristbands to fund the purchase of solar lighting devices. GNAC is supporting this initiative by purchasing devices for an entire classroom in Gototo Primary School near Nairobi.

Macon, GA

Southeastern Region

The Exploring Eagles group from the Macon Chapter held a seminar January 26, 2013 entitled “The Care and Keeping of You”. This was a health seminar for children discussing hygiene and body changes. The girls and boys were separated for the respective seminars. Materials for the girls sessions were gathered from American Girl: The Care and Keeping You; the boys group used the book The Boys Body Guide: A Health and Body Book. The children thoroughly enjoyed the experience and learned a lot in the discussions.

126

SCOPE 2013


STE(+A)M / Education

Pensacola, F L

Southeastern Region

Learning about our African heritage and viewing art dating over three centuries ago was the culminating STE[+A]M activity for all age group children of the Pensacola Chapter. At the Pensacola Museum of Art, we viewed pieces on display from the Stewart Collection of African Art, assembled by Dr. George L. and Mrs. Breckinridge Stewart. The featured art was comprised of visual arts from West and Central Africa from Antiquity to the early twentieth century. Our children were amazed by the carved wooden statues and masks, bronze figures, lost-wax castings, stools, and clay urns. Our Assistant Chapter Program Director served as tour guide and history guru. The day ended with shared inquiry discussions about the exhibit. Inspired by a previous seminar on family genealogy, the teens of the group were moved to further research our African history and accomplishments in America.

Savannah, GA

Southeastern Region

The Savannah Chapter of Jack & Jill, Inc. celebrated the annual Jack & Jill Day on Sept 30, 2013. The programming year was off to an awesome start with the family centered picnic in the park themed “Jack, Jill, and Jazz”! The event was held in conjunction with the Savannah Jazz Festival’s Children’s Jazz Festival Day. The venue was Savannah’s historic Forsyth Park and featured jazz ensembles, and vocal artist from area schools. The occasion allowed for chapter members of all ages to unite in a cultural, social, and STEM+A(Arts) setting. The annual Carole Robertson Day was also observed with a memorial tribute which ended with the releasing of pink and blue balloons. It was an enjoyable time for all in attendance.

Los Angeles, CA

Far West Region

The weekend prior to the November 6th Election Day was a busy one for Los Angeles Chapter tweens and teens, who in partnership with the Santa Clarita Chapter, learned the import of the voting process and worked to ensure Angelenos performed their civic duty. As our Group 4, 5A and 5B children arrived at various Get Out The Vote offices throughout the city, they were enthusiastically met by seasoned citizens who explained the various tasks they were to perform. The first was a lesson on phone banking: they were taught what it was, its importance, given specific instructions on how to do it and then made hundreds of calls. After phone banking, they proceeded into the local neighborhood to hand out brochures reminding adults Election Day was forthcoming. Our children learned even though they are not yet old enough to do it, they can still Rock the Vote!! SCOPE 2013

127


Jack and Jill Charitable Giving: The Beginning

A

s a National Organization, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is an outgrowth of mothers clubs – an amalgamation of mothers with the purpose of creating a medium of contact among their children and the provision of constructive recreational, social and cultural programs for children and mothers. Chapters engaged in fundraising activities for charitable contributions to local organizations and projects, and volunteered many hours to ensure that their communities were being served, especially those in financial crisis and times of need. In 1947, these mothers clubs developed a Constitu-

128

SCOPE 2013

tion and Bylaws which set forth a framework for organization, and harnessed the potential of community service and philanthropic giving, which we consider natural elements in the development of true leaders. “The Research for Rheumatic Fever” was selected as the first National Project. Over the course of the next few years, Jack and Jill began contributing to an array of nonprofit organizations and special causes. In 1951, the organization began its longlasting support of the National Foundation of Infantile Paralysis. This precursor to the March of Dimes focused on the eradication of Polio. Following the discovery and


distribution of the Salk Vaccine in 1955, Jack and Jill continued its financial support of the cause. Contributions from our membership over the years make Jack and Jill the biggest financial supporter of any group of its kind. The Thirteenth National Convention of 1958 established the National Association of Mental Health as the National Project, with financial contributions from our 48 chapters. Funds were also given to other charities including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Mental Health, and especially that of children, became the focus of the national organization over the next eight years, as a commitment was made to contribute at least $10,000 to the National Project. In 1966, Jack and Jill underwrote the cost of the publication, “The Mentally Ill Child, A Guide for Parents.” The socio-political climate of the country during the Civil Rights Era saw a change in programming focus. In 1964, Jack and Jill became more involved with the NAACP and its Legal Defense and Educational Fund. The Urban League and United Negro College Fund also become targets for financial support during this time, as Jack and Jill developed close cooperative relationships with other organizations committed to improving the quality of life for children, particularly Black children. Jack and Jill launched the Foundation Steering Committee in 1966 to establish a not-for-profit corporation organized as a short-term funding agency exclusively for charitable, religious, educational and scientific purposes. Forty five years ago, on January 30, 1968, the Jack and Jill of America Foundation became a reality. SCOPE 2013

129


We do Great Things for Kids: An Update from Your Foundation

by Gwen Hewitt

MAL Liaison to the Foundation Executive Board

Our Philosophy

Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Incorporated believes that leaders are made, not born. The Foundation supports programs that not only create opportunities and challenges for children to learn and practice leadership skills, but also build leadership character in youth. The ultimate goal of every Foundation grant dollar is to empower young people to make the right life choices. Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Incorporated has

INDEPENDENT GRANTS UP T0 $5,000

Dream It, Achieve It! Jack and Jill Alexandria Mt. Vernon Chapter Fairfax Station, VA Emerging Leaders Jack and Jill Manassas-Woodbridge VA Chapter Woodbridge, VA Jack and Jill of America Education Seminar Alexander Graham Bell Association for The Deaf And Hard of Hearing New York, NY

130

a tradition of putting young people first. Through its five grant programs, the Foundation makes an impact on shaping tomorrow’s leaders. The Foundation awards grants to community initiatives, Jack and Jill of America local chapter service projects, and nonprofit agencies serving children. Preparing succeeding generations of young people as leaders, in all walks of life, is central to the Foundation’s grant making philosophy.

Black Achievers - Healthy Living Jack and Jill New Castle County Chapter Wilmington, DE S.T.E.M. Education and Leadership Program Jack and Jill National Harbor Chapter Capitol Heights, MD Summer Youth Advocacy Program Oakwood Friends School Poughkeepsie, NY Teen Summit/ SAT Scrimmage The National Alliance of African American Athletes Harrisburg, PA

Academic and Healthy Lifestyle Enrichment Project Jack and Jill Bergen-Passaic Chapter Riverdale, NJ

YMCA D.C. Youth & Government Program YMCA Of Metropolitan Washington Washington, DC

“REACH” After School Leadership Thru Community Service Project Northside Center for Child Development, Inc. New York, NY

Camp Cinderella Hershey Group Foundation, Inc., Los Angeles, CA

SCOPE 2013


We do Great Things for Kids

Building on our Foundation’s strong history , solid mission and the dynamic programs that have provided countless opportunities for children to learn and practice leadership skills the 20112013 Foundation Members-at- Large have identified a theme that embodies the philosophy of Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Incorporated

Seattle Leader Week The Alexander Hamilton Friends Association Seattle, WA Beautillion Militare Scholarship 100 Black Men Of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN Bronzeville Youth Green Team Leaders Center for New Horizons, Inc., Chicago, IL Fit for Life Jack And Jill Of America Cincinnati Chapter, West Chester, Ohio Just US Young Women’s Christian Association Of Greater Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI The Mosaic Project The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, Cleveland, OH The Turning Point Of Lansing The Turning Point Of Lansing, Lansing, MI The West End School: Building Leadership Through Literature West End School, Inc., Louisville, KY

Urban Games Community Health and Fitness Day Jack and Jill Seattle Chapter, Seattle, WA Young Ambassadors Leadership Academy (YALA) Jack and Jill San Fernando Valley Chapter /Young Ambassadors Leadership Academy West Hills, CA SAT Preparation Workshop Series Jack and Jill Hampton VA Chapter, Hampton, VA College Bound, College Success Jack and Jill Columbus OH Chapter, Columbus, OH F.O.C.U.S. Fostering Opportunities for Children to Understand Self Esteem Jack and Jill Lakeshore Chapter, Chicago, IL Jack and Jill Family Fit and Fun Day Jack and Jill Cleveland OH Chapter Shaker Heights, OH Speaking up for Success Jack and Jill Bloomington/Normal Chapter Bloomington, IL

Girl Scouting at Safe Place and Settlement Home Girl Scouts Of Central Texas, Austin, TX

Springboard for Teens Excellence Program (SETP) Jack and Jill Windy City IL Chapter / South Shore Drill Team & Performance Arts Ensemble Chicago, IL

The Game Changers Jack and Jill Greater Frisco Chapter, Frisco, TX

YES to our Future- Youth Leadership Summit Jack and Jill Indianapolis IN Chapter, Indianapolis, IN

The Healthy Challenge Jack And Jill Of America, Inc., Katy Prairie View Chapter

Project L.E.A.D. (Literacy Empowerment and Development) Jack and Jill Sugar Land TX Chapter, Sugar Land, TX

Live Free! Ambassadors Operation PAR, Inc., Pinellas Park, Fl.

Earn, Invest, Give: Kids Just Want to Have Funds Jack and Jill North Texas Chapter, Flower Mound, TX

R.E.A.L. Boys R.E.A.L. Men Jack And Jill of America, Inc., Albany, GA.

Science and Technology Fair “Gateway to the Future” Jack and Jill Missouri City-Sugar Land TX Chapter Houston, TX

JACQUELINE ROBINSON GRANTS UP TO $3,000

2012 Knowledge Fair Jack and Jill Pasadena CA Chapter Pasadena, CA SFV AIM Youth to Financial Literacy Jack and Jill San Fernando Valley Chapter Canoga Park, CA

The Budget Fit Workshop Jack and Jill Katy-Prairie View Chapter, Houston, TX Camp Nobis EST Jack and Jill Humble/Kingwood TX Chapter, Humble, TX Destination CEO Program Jack and Jill Greater Frisco TX Chapter, Frisco, TX

SCOPE 2013

131


Healthy 4 Life Jack and Jill Clear Lake/Bay Area TX Chapter Houston, TX Project “Jiggy” Jack and Jill Southwest Suburban Dallas TX Chapter Grand Prairie, TX The Cake Connection Jack and Jill Buckhead-ATL Chapter, Atlanta, GA Creating A Better You: Health, Work and Joy Jack and Jill North Suburban ATL Chapter Atlanta, GA Let’s Work, Let’s Play, Let’s Live Together Jack and Jill Jackson MS Chapter, Jackson, MS Success: AIM Beyond High School Jack and Jill Jacksonville FL Chapter, Jacksonville, FL E.L.I.T.E. (Empowering Leaders Intellectually To Excel) Jack and Jill Greater Huntsville AL Chapter Madison, AL

132

SCOPE 2013

VIOLET D. GREER GRANTS UP TO $2,500

Business Meeting Etiquette Workshop Jack and Jill Hampton Chapter, Yorktown, VA “No Child Left Behind” -- Securing Our Future Jack and Jill Cincinnati Chapter, West Chester, OH Leadership for all: Building Youth Leaders Through Character and Innovation Jack and Jill Frisco Chapter, Frisco, TX Let’s Talk About It Jack and Jill New Orleans Chapter New Orleans, LA It Can Wait Jack and Jill The Woodlands Chapter Teen Group The Woodlands, TX Fetching Pails of Success Jack and Jill Jacksonville Chapter, Jacksonville, FL


Jack and Jill

Making a Positive Change with

Loose Change

By Gwen Hewitt, Southeastern Region Member-at-Large

T

he Loose Change campaign began as a regional initiative in the Southeastern Region, under the direction of Foundation Member-

at-Large Dr. Veda Pugh Kinsey. It was MAL Kinsey’s belief that it is never too early to begin teaching children to give. MAL Kinsey introduced a project to begin training our youngest Jacks and Jills to be philanthropists. The project was named “Make Positive Change with Loose Change.” The concept was simple; individual children would collect “loose change” pennies, nickels, and dimes to donate to other children in need.

Children were encouraged to earn the

monies they donate by doing small tasks/chores for their parents, family members or neighbors. Loose Change was enthusiastically received in the Southeastern Region and later was adapted as a National initiative. Through the MAKE POSITIVE CHANGE with LOOSE CHANGE National initiative the children of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. continue to bring “positive change” in the lives of children everywhere. LOOSE CHANGE CONTRIBUTIONS •

2007 New Orleans Public Library System

2008 New Orleans Public Library System

2009 Pass Christian, MS Library

2010 Habitat for Humanity, New Orleans

2011 Boys and Girls Clubs of Peninsula Palo Alto Site and Boys and Girls Club of Pasadena

2012 Jay Cooke ES, Ann Lingelbach ES, Theodore Roosevelt MS & Germantown HS

2012 Dr. Eva C. Wanton Library Ghana, West Africa

The 2011-2012 program was a record-breaking year for the Loose Change campaign! Our children collected over $30,000 in “Loose Change.” As families descended on Philadelphia in July 2012 to celebrate 75 years of family excellence, we were committed to leaving an impact on the community where the story of Jack and Jill began. Thus the majority of the “Loose Change” funds were designated for the children of the Philadelphia community, and specifically the Germantown area. In the 1930’s the Germantown area was the home of many of our founding Mothers. The home of our founder, Marion Stubbs Thomas is within walking distance of the schools we supported with “Loose Change” funds. Since 1938, the Germantown area has experienced many changes and some sections are the victims of urban blight and decay. More than 75 % of the children there live at or below the poverty level. Our children supported those children by donating to three schools in the area. The schools we supported with “Loose Change” were all Title I schools, where 90% of the children in attendance receive free or reduced lunch. The Jay Cook School received $10,000 for its new library. The school district’s capital campaign renovated the 1950’s library, but due to tough finances no money was available for books. Thus,

SCOPE 2013

133


while the shelves were not completely bare, they did not have nearly the books that OUR children are privileged to choose from at their school libraries. Moreover, the books available dated to the 1950’s, with few books by African- American authors or with African- American images. Located blocks away from Jay Cook is Theodore Roosevelt Middle school where we donated $ 4,000 to buy new books for their library. Theodore Middle School’s library was full of books, however the books were old and worn. Due to the school district’s lack of funds, updated instructional materials were also in short supply. To ensure that children in this area are competitive academically, $6,000 was donated for updated instructional materials, for two nearby schools Anne Lingelbach Elementary School ($4,000) and Germantown High School ($2,000) respectively received funds to purchase current language arts materials.

134

SCOPE 2013

Finally, as a result of our children’s hard work and generosity, they supported children both nationally and globally! In honor of our 13th National President Dr. Eva C. Wanton, a library will be built in Ghana, West Africa. Dr. Wanton’s presidency is remembered for many innovations; prominent among them was her commitment to Afri-Care. The library named for her will support her ongoing efforts “to seek for ALL children, that which we desire for our own”. The children of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. donated $10,000 to the Dr. Eva C. Wanton Library to be built at the Bonk Rong School in Ghana, West Africa. Congratulations to our youngest philanthropists, the awesome children of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. who continue to MAKE POSITIVE CHANGE with LOOSE CHANGE.


Members-at-Large

Central Region

Central Region is off and

Loose Change, we wanted to ensure that the Central

running

with

Change

our

Loose

Region showed up and showed out this year with EVERY

program!

Each

CHAPTER in the region participating!!! The chairs are

chapter is doing their part

working hard on designating a worthy recipient of the

and ending the program

Loose Change proceeds. The Central Region looks

with great participation and

forward to presenting this monetary gift to a worthy

philanthropic giving by our

organization in the name of Jack and Jill of America

youth. Since the Central

Foundation, Inc.

Region is the designated region for the 2012-2013

Eastern Region

- Tamela Franks

The Eastern Region is excited

which would be delivered to shelters and service

to report that it embarked

agencies on Friday night, the 22nd of March. Boston

on a regional service project

Cares, a volunteer service organization, assisted with

addressing

for

bringing in the project items and connecting with

program year 2012-2013.

the Boston city agencies for food delivery. Students

We challenged each of our

worked in groups of 10 making sandwiches, writing

55 chapters to donate in

the words “Hope” and “Believe” on brown sandwich

excess of 100 pounds of

bags, filling the bags with condiments, snacks and

hunger

food to a local food bank or

an inspirational thought. It was our hope that the

shelter. We were then able to

recipient may draw satisfaction from the food and that

calculate a cumulative regional total which we tracked

the thought included in the bag would sustain them

in our regional monthly newsletter. As a region, we

one more day. We are happy to report that our goal

were targeting 5500 meals as a goal. We spotlighted

of 7500 sandwiches was exceeded!!!! Our regional

chapters that met or exceeded the goal and it was

challenge total of meals served by the Eastern Region

incredible to see how chapters responded in such a

now stands at OVER 19,000 MEALS donated!!!!! Also

magnanimous way. By February, chapters had donated

we are extremely proud to report that our food cost

enough food equating in excess of 5500 meals and

was totally underwritten by the following: Williams

not all chapters had reported in yet!! In January at our

Capital of NYC, MAL Chaplin’s husband and MBIA,

teen leadership seminar held at Howard University, we

Incorporated of Armonk, NY. Together they donated

conducted a teen community service project where we

$14,500 for our service project! And the year is not

partnered with a Kids Against Hunger DC, humanitarian

over..... Go East!!!

service agency, to create over 6000 compact nutritious meals that 20 % are distributed in the United States

- Karen Chaplin

and the balance delivered to developing nations where these meals can sustain a family. With a goal to end world hunger, we are glad to have partnered with this worthwhile organization. At our recent teen conference, our service project honored our 75th anniversary and continued the regional challenge…. we had a goal to create in excess of 7500 sandwiches 135

SCOPE 2013

SCOPE 2013

135


Far West Region The Fabulous Far West

through the obstacle course, boxing ring and

Region continues to strive

oversized tricycle races. The Far West Region Teen

to Make A Difference in

Conference 2013 will feature this activity during the

the lives of children in

activity as an icebreaker and networking activity at

our area. In April 2012,

Arizona State University.

we had the auspicious

Far West Chapters across our region continue to

occasion

to

embrace

San Jose Chapter as they held a “Bullying Beyond the Playground” event, which included a panel of distinguished members of our community and local government. In addition, we were able to present a check representing half of the 2012 Loose Change contributions from Foundation to the Boys and Girls Torch Club, a chapter located in East Palo Alto,

hold successful fundraising activities, participating in community service events at local shelters and making a lasting imprint in the name of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

This year, the region pilots

the “Making a Difference” award, which will allow chapters the opportunity to showcase their community service efforts at both Teen Conference and Mother’s Conference.

- Tracie Muldrow

California. This chapter is lucky enough to benefit from consistent and meaningful contact from the San Jose Chapter and their youth. In addition, the Far West Region’s Teen Conference 2012, held at Pitzer Colleges in Claremont, California enjoyed innovative programming, funded by Jack and Jill Foundation and the Lucille Hadley Grant. This year the teens competed in an obstacle course, testing their physical and team building skills. Teens enjoyed themselves as they navigated

Mid-Atlantic Region The Mid Atlantic Region

various chapters present divided into teams for a

has

extremely

Jack and Jill Easter Egg race. Grand prize winning

enthusiastic about Loose

team takes all. The pleasant surprise was the eggs

Change this year. So far

were not filled with candy but filled with quarters.

this year we have had

The winning team received the change used for

20 out of 30 chapters

the game and divided it among the chapters

participating by submitting

represented on their team to add to their loose

their contributions logs

change totals. Overall for the rally the Mid-Atlantic

been

in time for our Loose

Region children contributed $3,000 to the Loose

Change Campaign Rally in Charleston SC. The

Change campaign which puts us $1,100 over last

children ages 2-12 had a blast competing to collect

year’s total and contributions are still coming in.

even more loose change for a worthy cause during the rally. The children ages 4 through 6 from the

136

SCOPE 2013

- Valerie Dillard


Mid-Western Region The Mighty Mid-Western

regional activities. This claim is evident by the

Region

service-

works that many grants and fundraising efforts have

oriented region. Believing

helped to execute for the 2012-2013 program year.

that serving all youth and

The incredible work that is being accomplished

teaching our youth to serve

through the funding of these grants and fundraising

others is our commitment

endeavors is only a portion of the great work being

to developing leaders for

accomplished by our chapters.

tomorrow.

The fall Mothers’ Workday Clusters held in

Our

is

youth,

a

by

Cleveland, Ohio and Lake Shore, Illinois gave

Regional Teen Foundation Chair Daniel King, are

led

both mother members and teens an opportunity

determined to “Change” our community for the

to support the host chapter’s community service

better as our teens prepare for the 2013 Teen

projects. The Cleveland Chapter collaboration with

Leadership Conference to be held at the University

Family Promise of Greater Cleveland ensured that

of Akron. Our theme: Destination Greatness,

families would receive diapers, wipes, blankets and

Achieving the Next level of Success, empowers our

funding in the amount of $3,000. The philanthropic

teens to build on the success of the past and reach

efforts of the Lake Shore Chapter yielded a bounty

for greatness. The teens have much to look forward

of “gently-worn” shoes and a donation of $1,500 to

to and much to build upon as they continue their

Share Your Soles Charity.

legacy of leaving communities better. The 2012

These two projects are just examples of the great

Mid-Western Region TLC Service project resulted in a transformation of Compton-Drew school in St. Louis, MO. The Region, comprised of 34 chapters, can boast that service and support of Foundation are principal in the planning and execution of chapter and

137

SCOPE 2013

work and collaborations throughout the Mighty MidWestern Region! The region working together...... doing great things for kids. In Service to ALL Children,

- Tanya Hand

SCOPE 2013

137


South Central Region The

children

in

Sensational

the

conference will receive special recognition, by

South

chapter, based on the highest amount of dollars

Central Region continue

raised for Foundation. The teens throughout the

to

region also volunteered in their various communities

learn

their

and

expand

commitment

in

to recognize and support the South Central Region

collecting and donating

Teen Day of Service. The community service

loose change to support

volunteer activities included neighborhood clean-

the goals of Jack and

up for elderly residents, random acts of kindness

Jill National Foundation.

at a community event distributing hand sanitizer,

The mothers have planned and executed creative

facility maps, and providing tours to guests.

incentive programs to encourage the children to

The Sensational South Central mothers continue

give back to their communities.

to plan activities to raise funds for the Foundation

Our chapters have a unique approach to supporting

through golf tournaments, theatre events, fashion

the Loose Change initiative. We are continuing to

shows, beautillions, debutante balls and galas. The

gain momentum and position our children to be

mothers have also volunteered many hours to various

great philanthropic leaders! Under the leadership

schools through reading and tutoring programs to

of Regional Teen President Nelson Winrow and

support Regional Director Millie Mitchell’s “Gift of

Regional Teen Foundation Chair Madeline Jones,

Time” community service initiative.

the teens are encouraged to maximize their contributions to Foundation. Teens attending teen

Southeastern Region Incorporating

“Loose

and Jill of America Foundation’s Loose Change

Change “ activities into

initiative. For two hours, chapter youth, ages 10-

chapter

programming,

12, and their parents worked behind the counter

enabled the children of

taking orders, serving customers, and assisting in

the Southeastern Region

meal preparation. The idea of this activity was to

to see how easy it is to be-

help the age group to begin to see the connection

come a philanthropist.

between earning money and giving to charity. They

Activities

earned a total of $256.31 for Loose Change.

ranged

from

younger children painting ceramic piggy banks to save their loose change to older children donating monies earned from working at a local McDonald’s. Triumphantly, the children learned the importance of giving and they led the organization in giving with contributions totaling $9,576.58 for the 2012-2013 year. The Fayette County Area Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. hosted McTween Night at McDonald’s. It was a fundraiser to benefit the Jack 138

SCOPE 2013

- Diedra Fontaine

- Gwen Hewitt


2012 Rebuild Philadelphia

Habitat for Humanity

J

ack and Jill of America, Inc. has a special community service project designed to call attention to the current global state of the human habitat and push toward adequate housing for all. Our membership hopes that by raising awareness and advocating for universal decent housing we can dismantle and alter the systems that reinforce and entrench poverty housing. In doing so, we can make and affordable, decent place to live a reality for all. In 2008, Jack and Jill, Inc. entered into a part-

nership with Habitat for Humanity and called the fundraising and construction campaign Jack and Jill Rebuilds America. Homes were built in Hurricane Katrina-ravaged New Orleans and Chicago. Jack and Jill of America, Inc. in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia, began the funding and renovation of a Priscilla Street home in the city of Philadelphia – the birthplace of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and the site of its 40th Biennial Convention. Jack and Jill of America, Incor-

SCOPE 2013

139 


140 

porated and the Foundation were honored to be able to provide the partial sponsorship for the home, as Philadelphia area chapters contributed their time and energies on construction efforts. We celebrated the dedication of the home to the Wallace-Bassett Family of Philadelphia on June 9, 2012. The family of

Bassett family reaching their milestone of home ownership! We continue our commitment to the Rebuild America initiative and look to complete the building of ten homes around the country. The mission of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia is to build houses in partnership with sponsors, vol-

six was selected into the Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia program in October 2010 and worked tirelessly on construction projects with other partner families, as well as volunteering at Habitat’s ReStore. We are honored to have taken a part in the

unteers, communities and homeowner families, whereby families are empowered to transform their own lives; and to eliminate poverty housing in the Philadelphia, PA area while serving as a catalyst to make decent shelter a matter of

accomplishment of the Wallace-

conscience and action.

SCOPE 2013


UPDATE ON THE

Thompson Quintuplets

T

By: Leila Batties, Washington, DC Chapter President

his program year was a milestone year for Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated and the Thompson Quintuplets. As we celebrated our 75th anniversary as an organization, Richard, Stella Octavia, Emily and Ann-Marie Thompson celebrated their 16th birthday. The occasion was marked by special gifts and recognition by our National Executive Board, the Foundation, and the Washington, DC Chapter.

This celebration is one of many memorial events that we have shared with the Quintuplets, since Jack and Jill of America made a commitment in 1998 to provide financial, educational and other support to the Thompson family. Richard Thompson and his four sisters live with their mother and three younger siblings in Northeast Washington, DC. As teenagers, they are now working hard in the classroom and focusing on what comes after high school.

It was wonderful to acknowledge both of these milestones during a weekend celebration that honored the historic re-election of President Barack Obama. Beautifully dressed for the occasion, the Quintuplets and their mother Jackie, joined us at the Pink & Blue Children’s Inaugural Balls, which were attended by more than 1,400 Jack and Jill Family members and guests. Washington, DC Chapter Mom, Monique LeNoir Pittman, helped the Thompson Quintuplets get dolled up for the grand affair by coordinating a shopping trip for all and appointments for fresh hairdos and nails for the young ladies. The Quintuplets started the evening having dinner with the National Executive Board in the Main Ballroom of the Ritz Carlton in Pentagon City, and then were able to socialize and dance in the Teen Ballroom.

“As they get closer to approaching adulthood, it is critical that we focus our efforts on providing them the guidance they need to thrive based on their individual interests and strengths,” says National Program Director Gladys Henderson, who serves as Jack and Jill’s Liaison to the Thompson Quintuplets. “Our goal is to help them chart a course for their future in the same way we’d want for our own children.” To that end, members from the Washington, DC Chapter have agreed to reach out to the Quintuplets’ mother to learn more about the areas of interest(s) of each child and then identify long-term mentors for each prior the start of the 2013-14 program year.

SCOPE 2013

141


Superior Chapter Program Planning & Handbook Ratings

Congratulations to the following Chapters that received a SUPERIOR rating on their chapter programming handbooks for the 2011 – 2012 program year: CENTRAL REGION

MID-ATLANTIC REGION

Des Moines, IA Greater Little Rock, AR St. Clair County, IL

Burlington-Graham, NC Charleston, SC Charlotte, NC Charlottesville Area, VA Chesapeake, VA Columbia, SC Conway, SC Eastern North Carolina Fayetteville, NC Greensboro, NC Queen City, NC Raleigh-Wake, NC Winston Salem, NC

EASTERN REGION Arundel Bay Area, MD Atlantic City, NJ Baltimore, MD Boston, MA Bridgeport, CT Bucks County, PA Buffalo, NY Central New Jersey Columbia, MD Greater Essex County, NJ Loudoun County, VA Manassas-Woodbridge, VA Mercer County, NJ Metropolitan, NY Montgomery County, PA Morris County, NJ Nassau County, NY Philadelphia, PA Pittsburgh, PA Prince George’s County, MD Suffolk County, NY

FAR WEST REGION Contra Costa County, CA Fresno, CA Inland Empire, CA Los Angeles, CA North County San Diego, CA Oakland Bay Area, CA Pasadena, CA Phoenix, AZ San Fernando Valley, CA Santa Clarita Valley/Antelope Valley, CA San Jose, CA Tri-Valley, CA Tucson Chapter, AZ

142

SCOPE 2013

MID-WESTERN Ann Arbor, MI Detroit, MI Greater Lansing, MI Oakland County, MI South Suburban Chicago, IL West Suburban Chicago, IL Windy City, IL Ypsilanti, MI

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Austin, TX Missouri City-Sugar Land, TX North Houston Suburban, TX North Suburban Dallas, TX North Texas, TX Southwest Suburban Dallas, TX The Woodlands, TX

SOUTHEASTERN REGION Athens, GA Birmingham, AL East Suburban Atlanta, GA Fayette County Area Chapter, GA Ft. Lauderdale, FL Greater Huntsville, AL Greater North Atlanta, GA Mobile, AL Nashville, TN Williamson County Area Chapter, TN


National Youth Volunteer Servant Leaders

Congratulations to the 2012 National Youth Volunteer Servant Leaders. This Jack and Jill National Program recognizes the children and teens who completed at least 25 hours volunteer service. In addition, children and youth that also met the criteria of the United States President’s Volunteer Service Awards criteria were recognized by President Barack Obama. We salute our Jack and Jill youth from the 2011-2012 program year for 64,673 total hours and this esteemed honor. Michaela Lyons, Akron Anthony Taylor, Albany Candace K. Shy, Albany Lennis Price, IV, Albany Tralen Price, Albany Cameron Johnson, Albany Daniel House, Albany Tyra House, Albany Gregory Hand, Albany McKenzie Hand, Albany Benjamin Kamarri Green, Albany Kamia B. Green, Albany Kole Fortson, Albany Korey Forston, Albany Keagan Carson, Albany Khalil Carson, Albany Sa’Haara-Jade Bryant, Albany William R.A. Berry, Albany Lauren S. Bell, Albany Erykah Baker, Albany Victoria Alexius, Albany Brea E. McQuarn, Alexandria William Willis, Anchorage Mellisha Addison Jones, Anchorage Mitchell Jones, Anchorage Rochelle Benton-Edwards, Anchorage Amanda Alexander, Anchorage Jordan Alexander, Anchorage Michele Alexander, Anchorage Wyatt Alexander, Anchorage Summarlyn Y. Birdine, Arlington Noble Batson, Arlington Kayla R. Taylor, Arundel Bay Area Amber Young, Atlanta Christopher Young, Atlanta Michael Young, Atlanta Summer Young, Atlanta Summer Thompson, Atlanta Jasmine Sears, Atlanta Analla Reid, Atlanta Kendall Moore, Atlanta Kennedy Moore, Atlanta Jade M. Lockard, Atlanta Koren Lewis, Atlanta Nadja Lewis, Atlanta Kelvin Jones, Atlanta Nile V. Johnson, Atlanta Pierce I. Johnson, Atlanta Robin Jackson, Atlanta Camille Garden, Atlanta Cloe Garden, Atlanta Domia Edwards, Atlanta Cleveland “Robbie” Chambliss, Atlanta Ryan A. Chambliss, Atlanta

Adia Berry, Atlanta Kyra Sidibe, Atlantic City Jillian M. Brown, Atlantic City Margot L. Moorman, Augusta Marisa J. Moorman, Augusta Marsha L. Moorman, Augusta Thoman Gorgon, Augusta Todd C. Gaines, Jr., Augusta Aliyah Gaines, Augusta Ryan Armant, Augusta Lauren Turner, Austin Janetta Parker, Austin Quinn Langford, Austin Raine Hoffman, Austin Phillip Hawkins, Austin Haley Ewing, Austin Jada Brown, Austin Nathaniel Adamolekun, Austin James Marrow, Baltimore County Raymond Vincent, Baton Rouge Danielle Dubriel, Baton Rouge David Dubriel, Baton Rouge Ari C. Burns, Baton Rouge Jordan Greer, Beaumont Stanley “Elliot” Spillers, II, Birmingham John T. Norman, II, Birmingham David A. Moorer, Birmingham Elliot G. Moorer, Birmingham David Martin, Birmingham Reginald Lawson, Birmingham Maya Johnson, Birmingham Christina Johnson, Birmingham Mykala E. Johnson, Birmingham Alisha Jenkins, Birmingham Angel Jenkins, Birmingham Joy Rosa Jackson, Birmingham Herschell O. Hamilton, Birmingham Ryan Hall, Birmingham Shawnise Gregory, Birmingham Ethan M. Green, Birmingham Cameron Gardner, Birmingham Christian Bridgewater, Birmingham Mitchell Baldwin, Birmingham Austin Wheeler, Bloomington-Normal Alexander Ofori, Boston Taylor McClain, Bronx Nyah Egerton-Francis, Brooklyn Nyahuma K. Egerton-Francis, Brooklyn Alexandria Whyte, Bucks County Taiden Madison-Sammons, Bucks County Tryce Madison-Sammons, Bucks County Camille Redmond, Central New Jersey Talise Redmond, Central New Jersey Logan Bell, Central New Jersey

Zachary Bell, Central New Jersey Courtland Sutton, Charleston Yorrick Sutton, Charleston Houston Marie Rhodes, Charleston Zelena Martin, Charleston Christina-Lin Brown, Charleston Zoe Ascue, Charleston James Waller, Charlotte Ryka A. Mitchell, Charlotte Mackenzie S. Davis, Charlotte Keelyn K. Waters, Chesapeake John E. Taylor, Jr., Chesapeake Randall Y. Smith, Chesapeake Ashley D. Nance, Chesapeake Megan Nance, Chesapeake Brianna Mitchell, Chesapeake Josiah Hamilton, III, Chesapeake Sterling M. Brown, Chesapeake Ryan Stratton, Chicago James Richardson, Chicago Natalie Mendenhall, Chicago Janelle McGregory, Chicago Dominique Diop, Chicago Felice Yarbough, Clear Lake/Bay Area Daria Walters, Clear Lake/Bay Area Marcellus Walters, Clear Lake/Bay Area Hunter Henderson, Clear Lake/Bay Area Christian Bradford, Clear Lake/Bay Area Demetrius Scott, Cleveland Kayla J. Primes, Cleveland Edward E. Long III, Cleveland Rhonald Houston, Cleveland Collin R. Davis, Cleveland Quentin N. Davis, Cleveland Monique Crosby, Cleveland Imani A. Wiley-English, Columbia (SC) Joshua A. Wiley-English, Columbia (SC) Helen M. Strickland, Columbia (SC) Taliaferro S. Robinson-Heyward, Columbia (SC) Sydney Reed, Columbia (SC) Danielle R. Long, Columbia (SC) Kierra A. Jackson, Columbia (SC) Kyra A. Jackson, Columbia (SC) Tyrone J. Ellis, Columbia (SC) Forbes C. Elam, Columbia (SC) Cortney Davis, Columbia (SC) J. Anthony Bennett, Columbia (SC) Lenton Pruitt, III, Columbus (GA) David T. Parham, Columbus (GA) Jelani D. McGlan, Columbus (GA) Brandon Mahone, Columbus (GA) Kelsey L. Brown, Columbus (GA) Avian Baker, Columbus (GA)

SCOPE 2013

143


Olivia Jabber, Columbus (OH) Rayna Lunn, Fort Lauderdale Victoria Jabber, Columbus (OH) Kalin A. Houston, Fort Lauderdale Cristina M. Wright, Conway Celeste George, Fort Lauderdale George “Trey” Williams, Conway Bryce Jones, FresnoAlexis Fowlkes, Fresno Joseph L. Johnson, III, Conway Halle Fowlkes, Fresno Akil Malik Frazier, Conway Bria N. Floyd, Fresno Myka’h Frazier, Conway Briaunna Caver, Fresno Autry “Trey” Warren, III, Dallas Archie Patterson, IV, Gary-Northwest Indiana Taylor Ratcliff, Dallas Cameron McCoullough Stewart, GaryTerrul Ratcliff, Dallas Northwest Indiana Destiny Hunt, Dallas Daniel King, Gary-Northwest Indiana Kyle Smith, Daytona Beach Deandre Jones, Gary-Northwest Indiana Dontia Orey, Daytona Beach Michaela Hillman, Gary-Northwest Indiana Robert Hatch, Daytona Beach Adam F. Collins, Gary-Northwest Indiana Devan Harris, Daytona Beach Kendall Perkins, Greater Essex County London Graham, Durham Raymond Holloway, Greater Essex County Jered Willis, East St. Louis Sivona Blake, Greater Essex County Charles Wallace, III, East Suburban Atlanta Kyndal Williams, Greater Frisco Carson A.M. Wallace, East Suburban AtlantaGeraud Sanders, Greater Frisco Reginald Thomas, East Suburban Atlanta Karlina Sample, Greater Frisco Malik Forbes, East Suburban Atlanta Kevin Sample, Greater Frisco Alana Conway, East Suburban Atlanta Kiara Sample, Greater Frisco Morgan Taylor, Eastern North Carolina Koby Sample, Greater Frisco Camille Stewart, Eastern North Carolina Angelica Johnson, Greater Frisco Norah Smith, Eastern North Carolina Samuel Johnson, Greater Frisco Ryan Smith, Eastern North Carolina Jalen A. Ball, Greater Frisco Matthew Phillips, Eastern North Carolina Jeremiah Williams, Greater Hartford Freeman Patterson, Eastern North Carolina Johnathan Williams, Greater Hartford Richard Patterson, Eastern North Carolina Ian Thompson, Greater Huntsville Zachary Overtson, Eastern North Carolina Paul Thompson, Greater Huntsville Alex Overton, Eastern North Carolina Courtney Mann, Greater Huntsville Lee Overton, Eastern North Carolina Danny Johnson, Greater Huntsville Carolina Mitchell, Eastern North Carolina Desmond Johnson, Greater Huntsville Jay Mebane, Eastern North Carolina DeVon Johnson, Greater Huntsville Lucas Mebane, Eastern North Carolina Madyson Edwards, Greater Huntsville Brandon Jenkins, Eastern North Carolina Emerson Brooks, Greater Huntsville Elisabeth Jenkins, Eastern North Carolina Sophia M. Simon, Greater Lansing Morgan Harvey, Eastern North Carolina Brett Powell, Greater Lansing Elizabeth Griffin, Eastern North Carolina Carla Jones, Greater Lansing Percy Edwards, Eastern North Carolina DeJuan Jones, Greater Lansing Steven Edwards, Eastern North Carolina James D. Cole, IV, Greater Lansing Kevin Burton, Eastern North Carolina Valana L. Wiltz, Greater North Atlanta Rebecca Burton, Eastern North Carolina Briana A. Scott, Greater North Atlanta Benjamin Bullock, Eastern North Carolina Devon Merlette, Greater North Atlanta Timothy Bullock, Eastern North Carolina Jasmine Merlette, Greater North Atlanta Addison Artis, Eastern North Carolina Allyce Lee, Greater North Atlanta James Redmond, Fayette County Area (GA) Kelsey Drake, Greater North Atlanta Jessica Redmond, Fayette County Area (GA Joshua Chandler, Greater North Atlanta )Nathifa J. Parker, Fayette County Area (GA) Melissa R. Carter, Greater North Atlanta Tamera Jackson, Fayette County Area (GA) Gianna Rhodes, Greater Tampa Taylor Jackson, Fayette County Area (GA) Nolan Padgett, Jr., Greater Tampa Rachel Hartfield, Fayette County Area (GA) Tyra Johnson, Greater Tampa Kyra Kamille E. Freeman, Fayette County John C. Holmes, III, Greater Tampa Area (GA) Lauren L. Holmes, Greater Tampa Casey Patillo, Fayetteville Nahum J. Hill, Greater Tampa Martin Kendrick, Fayetteville Simeon J. Hill, Greater Tampa Jasmin Bogan, Fayetteville William “Chris” Collins, Greater Tampa Lauren Benson, Fayetteville Jacqueline E. Blossom, Greater Tampa Nygel Vaughn, Fort Lauderdale Salise “Imani” Berrien, Greater Tampa Alexandria Turnley, Fort Lauderdale Camille Benson, Greater Tampa Ariel Turnley, Fort Lauderdale Christian Benson, Greater Tampa Kyla A. Thorpe, Fort Lauderdale Ciara Montgomery, Hampton Tor A. Pasteur, Fort Lauderdale Christopher Inman, Hampton Ebyan McKenzie, Fort Lauderdale Lauren Y. Hunter, Hampton

144

SCOPE 2013

Armone N. Davis, Hampton Keyana Cooke, Hampton George Wyche, III, Houston Daniel Jellins, Houston Lauren Neely, Indianapolis Carah Coleman, Indianapolis Robby Cater, Indianapolis Jaquantey Bowens, Indianapolis Joshua Anderson, Indianapolis Brianna Watson, Inland Empire Christian Hudson, Inland Empire Joshua Hudson, Inland Empire Braelyn Baker, Inland Empire Brandyn Baker, Inland Empire Nia Wilson, Jackson (MS) Cameron M. Watson, Jackson (MS) Johnathan Smith, Jackson (MS) Johnathan M. Smith, Jackson (MS) Bria E. Paige, Jackson (MS) Alexia S. Kirkland, Jackson (MS) Brie Kemp, Jackson (MS) Zoie Kemp, Jackson (MS) Lauren Franklin, Jackson (MS) Courtney Denson, Jackson (MS) Claudia D. Brunson, Jackson (MS) Joy Willis, Jacksonville Nicole Greene, Jacksonville Justin D. Couch, Jacksonville Austin Cannington, Jacksonville Marc Sakponou, James River Pierre Sakponou, James River David Henry, James River Carlos Romious, Jr., Johnson County Cameron C. Key, Johnson County Carson C. Key, Johnson County Kaelin H. Key, Johnson County Kaiya L. Key, Johnson County Morgann Adams, Johnson County Jenae Young, Katy-Prairie View Taylor Thompson, Katy-Prairie View Harrison (Deon) Smith, Katy-Prairie View Joshua Tony Smith, Katy-Prairie View Alexandre Rideaux, Katy-Prairie View Jean Louis Rideaux, Katy-Prairie View Zaire Prewitt, Katy-Prairie View Erin McDowell, Katy-Prairie View Evan McDowell, Katy-Prairie View Khloe Madox, Katy-Prairie View Christen A. Inman, Katy-Prairie View Chris Benjamin, Katy-Prairie View Maya Weaver, Knoxville Corey Smith, Knoxville Markesa B. Rigsby, Knoxville Arthur Nelson, Knoxville Craig Myles, Knoxville Janelle McKinney, Knoxville Daisha McBride, Knoxville Sidney Matlock, Knoxville Cameron Malone, Knoxville Tykeyah Griffin, Knoxville Sheri Cunningham, Knoxville Darryl Bonner, Jr., Knoxville Rashawn Andrews, Knoxville Chad E. Rivas, Jr., Lake Spivey


Makayla Potts, Lake Spivey Ariana Peoples, Lake Spivey William Mann, Lake Spivey J’kwe Kengwa, Lake Spivey Lamar Kengwa, Lake Spivey Zoe Carson, Lake Spivey Kinsley Washington, Long Beach Aaron Lyons, Los Angeles Rachel Baker, Los Angeles Diallo Robins-Brinson, Macon Alexandria Pegues, Macon Marisa Norwood, Manassas-Woodbridge Amira Nelson, Manassas-Woodbridge Jasmine Holliday, Manassas-Woodbridge Jamal J. Carter, Manassas-Woodbridge Jamel J. Carter, Manassas-Woodbridge Aundreya Batson, Manassas-Woodbridge Gabriel Arrington, Manassas-Woodbridge Jordan Adams, Manassas-Woodbridge Brent J. Palmer, Memphis Melba Martin, Memphis Rickelle R. Henry, Memphis Kayla V. Bolden, Memphis Paris Brown, Miami Jalen Thompson, Missouri City-Sugar Land Charlton Riley, Missouri City-Sugar Land Biana Jordan, Missouri City-Sugar Land Christopher Jackson, Missouri City-Sugar Land Nicholas Jackson, Missouri City-Sugar Land Halya Hunter, Missouri City-Sugar Land Courtney Hollingsworth, Missouri CitySugar Land Kendall Hollingsworth, Missouri City-Sugar Land Alexandria N. Hawkins, Missouri City-Sugar Land Adam DeBose, Missouri City-Sugar Land Blaise Bell, Missouri City-Sugar Land Kayla Bell, Missouri City-Sugar Land Brandon Basham, Missouri City-Sugar Land Dominique Angibeau, Missouri City-Sugar Land Margaret Woods-Crawford, Mobile Lillian Thomas, Mobile Kennedy Studdard, Mobile Rayna Owes, Mobile Joshua McSwain, Mobile Siobhan Johnson, Mobile Jaylen Hackett, Mobile Mikenzie Bowman, Mobile Jared Steele, Montgomery Chanice Spicer, Montgomery Robert Spicer, Montgomery Mamie Johnson, Montgomery André Howard, Montgomery Ava Howard, Montgomery Ariel Bowman, Montgomery Erin Bowman, Montgomery Maraya Maynor, Montgomery County (MD) Elana Harris, Montgomery County (MD) Montana Tomlin, Motor City Malik Sims, Motor City Nicholas Hairston, Motor City

Sydney Hairston, Motor City Andrea DuPerry, Motor City Karla L. Dozier, Motor City Mackenzie Millet, Nashville Tierra Horton, Nashville Rod Frazier, Nashville Alex Abernathy, Nashville Jordan Lewis, Nassau County Taylor Lewis, Nassau County Aaron Miles Daniels, Nassau County Emma-Marie Daniels, Nassau County Miniyah Shabazz, National Harbor Keita Gresham, National Harbor Taylor Gresham, National Harbor Diarra J. Fields, National Harbor Morgan Biggs, National Harbor April Rock, New Haven Jordan Rice, New Orleans Sydney Reynolds, New Orleans Karrington Knight, New Orleans Dominque Davillier, New Orleans Jasmyne Bracy, New Orleans Erika M. Augillard, New Orleans Kerstin S. Augillard, New Orleans Mia S. Augillard, New Orleans Landix Alcorn, New Orleans Gabrielle E. Stanfield, Newton Dallas P. Rachal, Newton Jordan A. Rachal, Newton Sydney Miller, Newton Gabriel Lewis, Newton Natalie Lewis, Newton Rachel Kronberg, Newton Ylana J. Jenkins, Newton Lauren A. DaSilva, Newton James A. Beard, Newton Taylor C. White, Norfolk Francesca Mercer, Norfolk Elise McGlothian, Norfolk Christina Lipscomb, Norfolk Jared Keys, II, Norfolk Sarah Goodwyn, Norfolk Bria Felton, Norfolk Emiley Allison, Norfolk Jamial Miller, North County San Diego Dante’ Lemon, North County San Diego Roshaan Turner, North Houston Suburban Edward E. Taylor, North Houston Suburban Sage Winkler, North Jersey Isaiah Thompson, North Jersey Savannah Fusaro, North Jersey Hassiem Bey, North Jersey George Washington, North Oakland/ Macomb Alyssa Taster, North Oakland/Macomb Austin Tasker, North Oakland/Macomb Mariah Flynn, North Oakland/Macomb Justin Elynn, North Oakland/Macomb Ariel Reid, North Shore Christopher Reid, North Shore Konnor Little, North Shore Austin Johnson, North Shore Zacary Johnson, North Shore Samari Gilbert, North Shore

Langston Fitts, North Shore Kara Cooper, North Shore Akeyla Charleston, North Shore Renwick Atkins, North Shore Adrien White, North Suburban Atlanta Alexander White, North Suburban Atlanta Victoria Powell, North Suburban Atlanta Israel Moore, North Suburban Atlanta Ashton Lightfoot, North Suburban Atlanta Layne Lightfoot, North Suburban Atlanta Yasmine Griffiths, North Suburban Atlanta Winbriel H. Gandy, North Suburban Atlanta Sydney D. Fisher, North Suburban Atlanta Johnathan Cofield, North Suburban Atlanta Allison Burns, North Suburban Atlanta Charles E. Willis, III, North Texas Taylor Willis, North Texas Lauren M. Williamson, North Texas Antonique D. Nixon, North Texas Autumn Langston, North Texas Alan Green, Oakland County Tylor Collier, Oakland County Charles Wright, Orange County Matthew Taylor, Orange County Alexandria Iannone, Orange County Peyton Goings, Orange County Connor Duncan, Orange County McKenna Duncan, Orange County Briana Baptiste, Orange County Brynn Adams, Orange County Casey L. Jenkins, Orangeburg Kyle T. Jenkins, Orangeburg Nimbrick D. Green, Orangeburg James Charleston, Orlando Brandy Bailey, Orlando Jeffery Bailey, Orlando Anneliese Sloss, Pasadena Aaron Ealy, Pasadena Cameron Clayton, Pasadena Alyssa Carter, Pasadena Rochelle Smith, Pensacola Krystinna Keeton, Pensacola Kourtney Jones, Pensacola Jarrett Clifton, Pensacola Chase Wilson, Philadelphia Arielle Wade, Philadelphia Xavier Walker, Phoenix Kelvan Pilot, Phoenix Sierra Leverett, Phoenix Tamara Farmer, Phoenix Whitney Fahnbulleh, Phoenix Anthony Cutright, Phoenix Ayanna Akinyemi-Nicholes, Phoenix Kyle Young, Pomona Ashleigh Wright, Portsmouth Bria Williams, Portsmouth Gabrielle Whiten, Portsmouth Tyler E. King, Portsmouth Jada N. Jones, Portsmouth Kantria Hatton, Portsmouth Alandra Copeland, Portsmouth Myles Copeland, Portsmouth Jeffrey D. Monroe, II, Prince George’s County

SCOPE 2013

145


Jonathan Monroe, Prince George’s County Kyle E. McKenzie, Prince George’s County Alexis LeMone, Prince George’s County Jordan Alexandria Camp, Prince George’s County Taylor Jonai Camp, Prince George’s County Haley Williams, Queen City Morgan S. Howard, Queen City Maya Earl, Queen City Olivia Glover, Raleigh-Wake Cora Evans, Raleigh-Wake Cora Evans, Raleigh-Wake Mackenzie Williams, Reston Kelsey McWilliams, Reston Sarah Warren, Richmond Sydney Shavers, Richmond Faith Elizabeth “Liza” Mickens, Richmond Tyra Beaman, Richmond Zaria Watkins, Sacramento Jacquelyn Ross, Sacramento Taylor Powell, Sacramento Analyse M. Houston, Sacramento Travis R. Smith, II, San Diego Lena Hilliard, San Diego Deja Webster, San Fernando Valley Bruce Pierce, Jr., San Fernando Valley Brandy Pierce, San Fernando Valley Brianna LaCroix, San Fernando Valley Lailah Fofana, San Fernando Valley Najah Diop, San Fernando Valley Cameron Kaplan, San Francisco Tevin J. Pitre, San Jose Alana L. Miller, San Jose Marquel S. Love, San Jose Naja Jones Mitchell, San Jose Natania Jones Mitchell, San Jose Nirel Jones Mitchell, San Jose Sydnie Jones, San Jose Alex N. Alugas, San Jose Bria Alexander, San Jose Kirsten Hardnett, Santa Clarita Antelope Valley Elle Cooper, Santa Clarita Antelope Valley Elon Cooper, Santa Clarita Antelope Valley Irie Cooper, Santa Clarita Antelope Valley Jermaya Patterson, Savannah Michaela Kaigler, Savannah Jared Grant, Savannah Sydney Grant, Savannah Brentton M. Ford, Savannah Carrie Ford, Savannah William Bogans, Savannah Jemma Yeadon, Seattle Lorial Yeadon, Seattle Stirling Yeadon, Seattle Taylor Salaguinto, Seattle Benson Webb, Jr., Selma Adam Pettway, Selma Naadira Pettway, Selma Adam Pettaway, Selma Kody Daffin, Selma Prince Arnold, Selma Akilah Hyrams, South Charlotte Aman Hyrams, South Charlotte Devin Adkins, South Charlotte

146

SCOPE 2013

Reginald Adkins, South Charlotte Erica Washington, South Miami Deja Smith-Young, South Miami Donald Ravenell, Jr., South Miami Jasmine D. Ravenell, South Miami Miles A. Pope, South Miami DaLauren Nottage, South Miami Aleah King, South Miami Dante King, South Miami Albert E. Dotson, III, South Miami Ashley E. Dotson, South Miami Angelica Carr, South Miami Aisha Dillard, South Suburban Chicago Barri Washington, Southwest Suburban Dallas Amahni Wall, Southwest Suburban Dallas Jahmila Wall, Southwest Suburban Dallas Zakiya Wall, Southwest Suburban Dallas Brie E. Stokes, Southwest Suburban Dallas Chloe M. Roberson, Southwest Suburban Dallas Kayla M. Roberson, Southwest Suburban Dallas Marcus C. Moore, Southwest Suburban Dallas Madeline G. Jones, Southwest Suburban Dallas Wesley K. Green, Southwest Suburban Dallas Jessica Wise, Spartanburg Jessica Wise, Spartanburg Jordan Wise, Spartanburg Jordan Wise, Spartanburg Kandace Starks, Spartanburg Faith Peters, Spartanburg Blake Koman, Spartanburg Blake Koman, Spartanburg Paige Koman, Spartanburg Sidney Koman, Spartanburg Crystal Boyd, Spartanburg Natalie Boyd, Spartanburg Graham Stoddard, St. Louis Ranisha Shelton, St. Louis Ranita Shelton, St. Louis Charles “Chip” Polk, St. Louis Ashantie Knighten, St. Louis Veronica Knighten, St. Louis Mauryn Buckner-Swain, St. Louis Meridian Buckner-Swain, St. Louis Justice Williams, Stone Mountain Jalen Pierce, Stone Mountain Billye Lewis, Stone Mountain Jacob Jordan, Stone Mountain Bryant E. Johnson, Stone Mountain Myles Humphrey, Stone Mountain Niah Humphrey, Stone Mountain Shaylyn Estelle, Stone Mountain Taylor Clark, Stone Mountain Alexis R. Campbell, Stone Mountain Chelsea Parkes, Suffolk County Autumn Morris, Suffolk County Brittany Morris, Suffolk County Justin Lowe, Suffolk County Tyler Treadwell, Sugar Land Alex Sims, Sugar Land

Mecca Price, Sugar Land Jorian Hunter, Sugar Land Janna LeAnn Perry, Syracuse Kinshasa Price, Tacoma Cedrice Howard, Tacoma Myan English, Tacoma Joshua Dickens, Tacoma Thomas Copeland, Tacoma Déja Uzzell, Tallahassee Kameryn Stanfield, Tallahassee Chloe M. Patterson, Tallahassee Christian M. Patterson, Tallahassee Kathryn M. Lewis, Tallahassee Maya King, Tallahassee Alexis Conner, Tallahassee Linzie F. Bogan, II, Tallahassee Paul Bailey, Tallahassee Donna Dounley, Texarkana Twin Cities Jessica Dounley, Texarkana Twin Cities Elijah Mobley, Treasure Coast Faith Mobley, Treasure Coast Willie C. Mack, IV, Treasure Coast Travis K. Mack, Treasure Coast Aaron Hines, Treasure Coast Chloe Hines, Treasure Coast Taylor West, Tri-Valley Taylor Fields, Tri-Valley Camille Bright, Tri-Valley Logan Mitchell, Tulsa Alexis Anderson, Tulsa Brett Anderson, Tulsa I’mon Washington, Tuscaloosa Reagon G. Washington, Tuscaloosa Zan Jones, Tuscaloosa Mary E. Hughes, Tuscaloosa Zachary Walker, Tyler East Texas NathanMbariket, Tyler East Texas Terianna Mbariket, Tyler East Texas Alston Johnson, Tyler East Texas Laura Floyd, Tyler East Texas Kenneth Bickham, Jr., Tyler East Texas Jazmine Newman, Washington D.C. Jamar Nash, Washington D.C. Jordan Marlon, Washington D.C. Sarah Marion, Washington D.C. Matthew J. Bailey, Washington D.C. Paul R. Bailey, Washington D.C. Joya Woordard, West Suburban Chicago Brianna Townsend, West Suburban Chicago Kira Sears, West Suburban Chicago Nathaniel Noble, West Suburban Chicago Preston Mitchell, West Suburban Chicago Lindsey Miller, West Suburban Chicago Chandler Kingsley, West Suburban Chicago Victoria Davis, West Suburban Chicago Gabrielle Chapman, West Suburban Chicago Pamela McMillan, Williamson County Area Ian Jackson, Williamson County Area Jillian Gray, Williamson County Area Bryce Ellen, Windy City Jonathan Wicker, Ypsilanti Andrew Littleton, Ypsilanti


2012–2014

National Executive Board

Clockwise from Top

Tamara Turnley Robinson, National President | Southeastern Region Gladys Henderson, National Program Director | South Central Region Crystal Turner, National Treasurer | Central Region Regina Page, National Editor | Far West Region Kimberley Goode, National Corresponding Secretary | Mid-Western Region Tammy King, National Vice-President | Eastern Region Allison Copeland, National Recording Secretary | Mid-Atlantic Region, Center

147

SCOPE 2013

147


148

SCOPE 2013


SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND THANK YOU This edition of SCOPE includes invited article contributions from the following: Dr. Cheryl Beal Anderson (Mid-Western), Immediate Past National Program Director Diedra Fontaine (South Central), Member-At-Large Gwen Hewitt (Southeastern), Member-At-Large Karen Chaplin (Eastern), Member-At-Large Latrecia Jordan (Southeastern), National Program Committee Leila Batties, Chapter President Melissa Johnson (South Central), National Program Committee Monica Moton-Williams (Central), National Program Committee Paula Harris (South Central), National Legislative Committee Chair ShawnDya Simpson Walthour (Eastern), National Program Committee Shermanita Cotton (Mid-Western), National Program Committee Tamela Franks (Central), Member-At-Large Tanya Hand (Mid-Western), Member-At-Large Tiffany Aldridge (Far West), National Program Committee Tracie Muldrow (Far West), Member-At-Large Tracy Burton (Mid-Atlantic), National Program Committee Valerie Dillard (Mid-Atlantic), Member-At-Large WITH SINCERE APPRECIATION, Gladys M. Henderson, National Program Director

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS STAFF Dyonicia “Dy� Brown Executive Director Jill Antos Graphic Designer Tranae Jones Financial Associate Demetrius Perkins Membership Specialist Kristjen Renard Special Projects Coordinator


SCOPE2013 Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated National Headquarters 1930 17th Street NW Washington, DC 20009 ph 202-667-7010 www..jackandjillinc.org

1938


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.