www.jackandjillinc.org

Chapter History

In the spring of 2023, after two years developing the vision, the Mothers of Eastern Wake–Johnston County —an idea initiated by Shameika Moncrief DeVane, and collaborated alongside founding coordinators Nailah Alston, Dr. Tyechia Paul, and Charlotte Jordan Williams, — reached a defining moment. On April 28th, then–National Vice President Sativa Leach- Bowen extended the invitation, after a

favorable vote from the national executive board, to apply for provisional group status. That summer, the group welcomed then–Regional Director Tarcia Flemming, an advocate and supporter of the group with a gracious reception attended by leaders from our sponsoring chapters, Raleigh–Wake and Capital City.

By October 2023, the group’s proving community involvement, high–quality programming, and unity of purpose were rewarded with the achievement of provisional status. Under the guidance of Dr. Jeniqua Duncan, National New Chapter Establishment Chair, the Mothers of EWJ embarked on formal training, sharpening their leadership and deepening their impact.

In April 2024, Mothers of EWJ hosted the then- Regional Director Tiffany Spann- Wilder and received leadership training paired with fellowship. Just three months later, in July 2024, four delegates – President Shameika DeVane, Vice President Dr. Tyechia Paul, Financial Secretary Ida Merritt, and Age Group Chair Shemeaiah “Mimi” Wilson–traveled to the National Convention in Minneapolis. Backed by the efforts of specialized committees, the delegates presented and secured an affirmative vote to become the East Wake–Johnston Provisional Chapter.

On September 8, 2024, with 34 mothers, 28 fathers, and 59 children, East Wake- Johnston Chapter was officially chartered as the 33rd chapter in the Mid–Atlantic Region and the 266th chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated–a moment that crowned years of vision, labor, and love from its coordinators and members. Today, the East Wake–Johnston Chapter stands as a living testament to its mission statement of Planting seeds of excellence, cultivating a legacy of success, and stewarding the next generation of compassionate leaders.

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.