www.jackandjillinc.org

Our Chapter’s History

The Greater Grand Rapids Interest Group, which would become to known as the West Michigan African American Mother’s Society (WMAAMS), was founded and organized in January 2008 by Delvenia Beason and Barbara Welch. The two firmly believed that a local organization should be in place for all African American children to provide enriching experiences through active participation in civic, social, educational, cultural, and personal development to support the successful attainment of their goals, ambitions and aspirations.

At 41 members, the group received Provisional Group status in December 2007 and in January 2008 held its inaugural children’s programming event in celebration of “Founder’s Day” which incidentally had an even greater relevance due to the successful election of the country’s first African American President and the subsequent Inaugural celebrations, which surrounded the occasion.

During the two and a half years as a Provisional Group, WMAAMS, sponsored by the Greater Lansing Chapter, went through the joys and pains of launching a new organization as well as learning the ways and culture of Jack and Jill. We persevered under the theme of “Yes We Can!” and on July 30th, 2010; the Greater Grand Rapids Interest Group was officially voted in as the Greater Grand Rapids Provisional Chapter at the 39th National Convention in Chicago, IL. On November 14th, 2010, 16 members were installed as the Greater Grand Rapids Chapter of Jack and Jill of America. Past President Alice Peoples, Regional Director Kimberly Wills and Regional Programming Director Melanie Lynn attended the installation.

The 2011/2012 programming year marked our first recruiting year for the Greater Grand Rapids Chapter including the establishment of our first Informational Tea, our first voting and our first Initiation Ceremony for 2 new members.

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.