www.jackandjillinc.org

The Legacy of the New Orleans Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated

On March 27, 1952, visionary leader Mrs. Roberta Bobb Johnson, sponsored by the Buffalo Chapter, founded what would become one of the most vibrant and enduring chapters in our organization — the New Orleans Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. The installation ceremony was presided over by Dr. Alberta Turner of Columbus, Ohio, who served as the National President at that time.

The chapter’s pioneering spirit was embodied by its first officers:
Roberta B. Johnson, President; Sara Epps, Vice President; Jessie R. Vickman, Corresponding Secretary; E. Lucile Serge, Recording Secretary; W. R. Coleman, Treasurer; Irene H. Greene, Program Chairman; Oralee B. Mitchell, Membership Chairman; Jessie Dent, Constitution Chairman; Maggie Buggs, Housing Chairman; and Gladys Sartor, Reporter.
Their founding circle was further strengthened by dedicated members Mrs. Mark Birchette, Mrs. Mason Haywood, Mrs. Jean Maloney, and Mrs. Houser Miller, whose collective vision laid the foundation for decades of excellence.

For more than seven decades, the Mothers of the New Orleans Chapter have nurtured generations of leaders through meaningful programming, civic engagement, and a steadfast commitment to service. The chapter’s community outreach and philanthropic efforts have enriched the lives of children and families across Greater New Orleans, reflecting the true spirit of Jack and Jill.

Today, as a proud Two-Five Star Chapter, the New Orleans Chapter continues to set the standard for leadership, sisterhood, and service under the dynamic leadership of Chapter President Tonya S. Johnson. Looking ahead, the chapter prepares to celebrate an extraordinary milestone — 75 years of continued and dedicated service — on March 27, 2027, honoring a legacy that continues to inspire excellence in all children.

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.