www.jackandjillinc.org

Our Chapter

The DFW Mid-Cities Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. boasts a storied history marked by an unwavering commitment to the holistic development of Black youth. We operate within the vibrant Mid-Cities enclave nestled within the expansive Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area in Texas. Our historical narrative epitomizes an unwavering resolve to instill values of cultural enrichment, educational enrichment, community service, and social engagement.

The genesis of the chapter can be traced back to 2003 when a collective vision coalesced among a group of mothers who shared a common aspiration: to create a comprehensive nurturing environment for children, one that would encompass multifaceted dimensions of personal and communal growth.

Recognizing the critical need for structured programs and valuable resources, the chapter made the pivotal decision to align itself with Jack and Jill of America, Inc. This astute affiliation facilitated access to a reservoir of knowledge and support offered by a prestigious organization ardently committed to fostering the advancement of Black youth.

Under the leadership of Angela Jones, who assumed the mantle of the inaugural President, the chapter adopted the distinctive title of “DFW Mid-Cities.” In testament to our unwavering dedication and commitment to our cause, the chapter successfully achieved provisional status in 2004. This monumental achievement was substantiated by an eloquent presentation delivered at the 50th Biennial Jack and Jill of America, Inc. National Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. A historic event was etched into the chapter’s history on October 9, 2004, with the Charter Installation Ceremony at the prestigious Timarron Country Club in Southlake, Texas.

With the foundation firmly established, the DFW Mid-Cities Chapter perpetuated its influence and impact. In 2018, during the SCR Area Workday, the chapter achieved another remarkable feat by successfully chartering an Associates Group. This accomplishment underscored our resolute commitment to the holistic development and empowerment of Black youth.

Past Officers, Honors, and Recognitions

The DFW Mid-Cities Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, stands as a living testament to its ardent commitment to nurturing future leaders. Throughout its existence, the chapter has garnered numerous illustrious accomplishments and recognitions.

Noteworthy achievements include the election of Mother Angela Jones to the 2007-2008 Regional Nominating Committee, Mother Sonja Haynes’ appointment as the Regional Protocol Chair, and Mother Donna Ross’s appointment to the 2014-2015 Regional Technology Committee; Mother Duwana Johnson’s appointment to the 2019-2020 National Small Chapter Task Force and Mother Everlie Hamilton’s roles as the 2019-2021 SCR Awards and Courtesies Chair, and the 2021-2023 SCR Dallas COE Chair.

Lacy Green was elected as our first Teen Regional Officer in 2021 and graciously served as South Central Regional Teen Secretary from 2021-2022.

Education and leadership development remain at the forefront of the chapter’s mission, as exemplified by the graduation of members from the prestigious Mary Lou Adams Leadership & Excellence Academy. Notable graduates include Alice Dungey and Terehas Pearson in 2019, followed by Dr. Sharon Jackson, Tamyra Paschal, and Giselle Williams in 2021. In 2022, Dr. Regina Gentry and Dr. Nathalie Jones joined this esteemed list. These milestones underscore the chapter’s dedication to nurturing multifaceted leaders.

The chapter has also made significant contributions at the national level. Dr. Jeane’ Holmes received the Blue Ribbon Bylaws Award, highlighting the chapter’s commitment to sound governance practices. Alumna Haley Taylor Schlitz was honored as an inaugural recipient of the National President Legacy Award. Mother Terehas Pearson’s graduation from the Marion Stubbs Thomas National Leadership Academy and her appointment as the 2022 Chair of the National Tellers Committee showcase the chapter’s dedication to shaping the direction of the broader organization.

Additionally, in 2022-2024, we celebrate national appointments: Alice Dungey on the National Legislative Committee, Dr. Myiesha Taylor on the National Our Health Matters Task Force, Terehas Pearson as Chair of the National Youth Trip Task Force and Everlie Hamilton as 2023-2024 Regional Protocol Chair, National Protocol Committee.

Programming Highlights

DFW Mid-Cities Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, has consistently demonstrated its steadfast commitment to providing enriching activities for its children while meticulously aligning with the organization’s national programming thrusts.

These multifaceted endeavors encompass yard cleanup and flower planting for Black seniors, HBCUs tailgate events, and various seasonal activities such as participation in the Fort Worth MLK Day Parade and Cowboys of Color Rodeo.

Moreover, the Lemonade Stand project, annual turkey distribution to Fort Worth families, and volunteering hours at local organizations highlight our commitment to addressing societal needs and fostering a spirit of giving among the children. Our advocacy for the Crown Act during a legislative day at the State Capitol demonstrates our dedication to social justice causes and engaged citizenship.

Programming excellence is a fundamental tenet of DFW Mid-Cities Chapter, evident in our achievement of securing two Jack and Jill of America Foundation Grants for the Precious Children’s Emergency Shelter. These grants facilitated improvements in the facility’s infrastructure and supported our S.M.A.R.T. program, emphasizing academic excellence and educational support for young learners. Additionally, our commitment to mentoring and leadership development is reflected in our attainment of a National Leadership Grant.

DFW Mid-Cities Chapter has established valuable partnerships with local sponsors, made manifest by the Swing Golf Tournament, our signature fundraising event. Since its inception in 2009, this tournament has raised over $100,000 for the Jack and Jill of America Foundation and various local charities.

Finally, the chapter has successfully hosted various Area and Regional conferences such as the 2008 South Central Region Mother’s Conference, the 2010 Dallas COE Children’s Cluster, and the 2018 South Central Regional Teen Conference.

Our program exemplifies our dedication to youth leadership development, meaningful societal impact, philanthropy, social action and engagement, and community enrichment.

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.

In the Spotlight

Dr. Jeane’ Holmes President – Jack & Jill of America, Inc. DFW Mid-Cities ChapterGreetings, Welcome to the DFW Mid-Cities Chapter, Jack and Jill of America, Inc landing page. I am humbled and honored to lead our chapter on an enlightening journey. Our Chapter Program theme is T.E.A.M.S, “Together everyone, moms and kids, achieves more success”. Together provides an intentionality that success is achieved when we collaborate, innovate, motivate, and plan for our children and their future. We are raising the next generation of leaders while we continue to uphold our organization’s mission to strengthen our children through leadership development, philanthropic giving, civic duty, and volunteer service. Mothers, we are leading our children with I.M.P.A.C.T. (Innovate, Motivate, Plan, Activate, Cultivate, Thrive)As a chapter, we consistently look to provide enriching activities for our children while aligning with the national organization’s programming thrusts. The Father’s Auxiliary plays a vital role in reinforcing our mission of nurturing and developing African- American children leaders. The fathers are our partners, and they are a key component in this parenting journey.I am honored to serve our families. Let’s continue to do “great” things in our monthly programming for our kids, on mission, on purpose.

February Impactful Teen: Introduction to Ryan Hamilton, an exemplary teen leader who is academically gifted. Ryan is an AP scholar with honors, a defensive back, and letterman captain on the varsity football team. His writing skills have been nationally recognized by the New York Times Learning Network. He has been a member of the DFW Mid-Cities Chapter for 11 years and is actively involved in Teen Conference and numerous other Jack and Jill events. Ryan gives back to the community through a number of service projects, including neighborhood cleanups, food bank volunteering, and serving the homeless.

On the Hill Summit At the On the Hill Summit, Jack and Jill of America, Inc.’s flagship legislative event, more than 600 African American teen advocates from 33 states came to the nation’s capital to learn about the legislative process, advocate for significant issues affecting youth and the Black community, and meet their respective state’s legislators.Our DFW Mid-Cities Chapter was represented by teens Kennedi Paschal, David Jennings, Audrey Dungey, Sanaa Sanders, and Elijah Wilkerson.

Washington, D.C.