Bucks County Chapter – Our History

The Five Star Bucks County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated evolved from a provisional group of concerned African American mothers in Bucks County, PA, who desired to organize cultural, social, and service activities, under the auspices of Jack and Jill for their children. On February 22, 1987, a group of mothers had a meeting with the then National President of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and was informed of the procedural steps necessary to become eligible for Jack and Jill Provisional Chapter status. 

The Philadelphia Chapter became our sponsor and the election of officers for the Provisional group took place April 26, 1987.  On July 19, 1988, the National delegation voted unanimously for the Bucks County Provisional Group to become Bucks County Provisional Chapter. On October 29, 1988, thirty-four members and officers of the Provisional Chapter were installed as chartered members and officers.  

Our mothers are committed to the leadership development of our children. We strive to increase their knowledge through guided exposure in cultural awareness, educational development, health, community service, legislative advocacy and philanthropy.

 

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About Jack and Jill of America

The late Marion Stubbs Thomas founded Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, on January 24, 1938, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Twenty mothers came together to discuss creating an organization to provide social, cultural and educational opportunities for youth between the ages of 2 and 19. In 1946, 10 chapters were involved in the national restructuring process. The constitution and bylaws were drawn up, and the organization was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware.

Today, Jack and Jill boasts 262 chapters nationwide, representing more than 50,000 family members.

Each chapter plans annual programming activities guided under our five point programmatic thrust:

Cultural Awareness

We remember the ways of living developed by communities and passed on from generation to generation, including customs, practices, places, objects, artistic expressions and values. Through our cultural heritage we honor and preserve those who are making a difference in our community by teaching our children to cherish their past and be excited about the future.

Educational Development

The core of the Jack and Jill of America philosophy is that every child – if given the proper guidance and opportunity – can be developed into a leader. Whether it is through skill enhancement or understanding the concepts of integrity, Jack and Jill has become a national icon in creating effective leaders.

Social/ Recreational

We are social beings with a need for balance to function and maintain healthy lives. We believe it is necessary to engage our children both socially and recreationally, learning to interact with peers and others in a healthy, positive and productive manner. These activities promote processes that help to refresh and reinvigorate both the mind and body.

Health

Chapters continue to embrace the importance of being more aware of health issues that impact our communities, resulting in an organization that is more health conscious. We are committed to providing healthy behaviors and personal empowerment programming and training for families to live healthy lifestyles.

Civic

Since our inception, we have been committed to legislation aimed at bettering the lives of all children. Past and present legislative advocacy focus has been on violence in the media, health and wellness initiatives, voter registration, responsible gun laws, and equal access to quality education.

Membership

We are a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2 to 19, dedicated to nurturing future Leaders by supporting children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty. Jack and Jill has 262 local chapters within 7 geographical regions in the United States.

Become a Member

If you are interested in becoming a member of this chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., you must be sponsored by a member(s) of the chapter. You will be invited to attend a meeting where pertinent information, such as the qualifications, cost, selection process, and other information will be discussed

An individual meeting all requirements and qualifications must then be approved by chapter vote to complete the selection process. Each chapter is autonomous and has specific criteria for sponsoring new members.

Legacy Membership

If you are a child or the spouse of a child whose mother graduated from a chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. in good standing and you meet the other criteria for membership, you are eligible for membership as a Legacy Member. Legacy forms can be obtained from our National Office.

  • 09-09-2023Jack & Jill Day and Carole Robertson Recognition
  • 12-09-2023Chapter Holiday Celebration
  • 01-15-2024MLK Day of Service

In the Spotlight

Congratulations Connie Peace, 2023 YWCA Bucks County “Salute to Women Who Make a Difference” honoree and 2023 Bucks County Chapter Distinguished Mother!!
Welcome to the Bucks County Chapter!
We will miss our Graduating Mothers! Thank you for all of your contributions! We are a better chapter because of all of you!

Leadership

Our Chapter’s Leadership Board

Monira Parkinson-Cole

Chapter President

Allyson Felder

Chapter Vice President

Nadia Pringle-Davis

Chapter Program Director

Melissa Smith

Chapter Program Director

Carla Daily

Chapter Recording Secretary

Fanella O’Brien

Chapter Corresponding Secretary

Angela Cook

Chapter Treasurer

Tricia Godfrey

Chapter Financial Secretary

Lynn Seth

Chapter Editor

Community Service

Local Philanthropies that we have had the honor of partnering with

    Contact Our Chapter

    We look forward to hearing from you about membership or how our members can serve your philanthropy and our community.

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