www.jackandjillinc.org

The Galvanizing and Gracious Greater Channel Chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc.

The Greater Channel Mothers Interest Group formed in the spring of 1993 under the leadership of Ms. Glenda Thibeaux. The interest group consisted of 30 mothers with a common interest in the betterment of children who resided near the Houston Ship Channel Area of Houston.

The Galvanizing and Gracious Greater Channel Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, has grown over the years through the vision and the mission of each of its past Presidents: Glenda Thibeaux (1994-1996), Pam Pellerin (1996-2000), Carolyn McCray (2000-2002), Debra Johnson (2002-2005), Dawana M. Lewis Scott (2005-2006), Cheryl Fleming (2006-2008), Renee Lewis (2008-2010), Barbara Pierce (2010-2012), Melanie Flowers (2012-2014), Paula Harris (2014-2016), Demetria Jones (2016-2018), Trela Parker (2018-2020), Stacey Frank (2020-2022), Juantongia Calvin (2022-2024).

The Greater Channel Chapter of Jack and Jill of America has a proud history of hosting events, including Area Workday in 1996, the Regional Mother’s Conference in 2005, the National Convention in 2006 in collaboration with other Houston-area chapters, and the Children’s Cluster in 2013. In June 2017, the chapter made history by hosting its first Teen Conference on a college campus, held at the University of Houston.

On November 2, 2024, the Greater Channel Chapter proudly celebrated 30 years of service—a testament to the dedication and passion of its members. This milestone was commemorated with a grand 30th Anniversary Gala. Through its impactful programs and initiatives, the chapter continues to embody the mission of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated: empowering youth and strengthening communities.

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.