www.jackandjillinc.org

CHAPTER HISTORY

The first meeting of mothers interested in organizing a chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. was held on Sunday, March 16, 1986, at the home of Susan Russell, 57 Garthe Court, Vallejo, California. The mothers in attendance represented the cities of Vallejo, Benicia, and Fairfield. Delores Keys and Valerie Russell, members of our sponsor chapter, Contra Costa, were present to offer information, advice, and support. It was evident that the mothers had come with a determination to provide for their children the types of activities that Jack and Jill of America, Inc. promotes. With that passion and determination in place, the founding mothers of our chapter decided that in two years, when the National Convention took place in San Francisco, they would be one of the provisional chapters seeking acceptance.

Their goal was accomplished. On October 8, 1988 when the Greater Vallejo Chapter was installed as the 23rd chapter of the Far West Region with 23 chartered members, and as the 188th chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

The power of God and the commitment of energetic, hard-working, dedicated, and conscientious mothers have made a great impact in the Greater Vallejo community.

PRESIDENTS’ WELCOME

It is my pleasure to extend warm greetings on behalf of the Gifted and Grateful Ladies of the Greater Vallejo Chapter, Far West Region. I am deeply honored to serve as our chapter’s 14th President during the 2025–2026 program year.

Reflecting on our chapter’s journey since its inception in 1988 fills me with pride. We have achieved much together, and I am eager for the impactful programming planned for this year.

One highlight will be our third Annual Flap Jacks with Santa Fundraiser, an event centered on bringing children and families in our community together for a festive breakfast, arts and crafts, and joyful interaction with Santa. During this celebration, we also collect canned and non-perishable food items to support Souperbowl of Caring. Our ongoing commitment to serving and feeding our unhoused and hungry community continues through partnerships with outstanding organizations, including Operation Gobble Gobble, God Family Ball, Solano Food Bank, and Faithful Heart.

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.