www.jackandjillinc.org

Our Chapter

The Outstanding Orangeburg Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. was chartered in 1966 by thirty-one mothers who saw the need for an organization that would assist our children in their cultural and social development.

For nearly 60 years, the Orangeburg Chapter (Mid-Atlantic Region) has provided families and communities with innovative programming and philanthropic giving.

Our chapter boasts of several current and former members who served on both the regional and national levels.

From our first chapter president Mellicent Anderson to our current, Teetandeeahnahsee M. Williams, we remained committed to the mission and purpose of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

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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.

In the Spotlight

Mom Kemeka Johnson is a member of the Orangeburg Chapter of Jack and Jill and currently serves as the Chapter President. She has been an active member for the past 12 years. She has served in various chapter offices. In addition, Mom Kemeka served as the Mid-Atlantic Regional Chaplain. Mom Kemeka is married to Adolphus and they have two daughters, Hannah and Abigail.

Celebrating our 2023 Distinguished Mother of the Year!

Dad Lucius Craig, III is the husband of Mom Nedra Craig and the father of Teen Arden Elise Craig. Along with his family, Dad Lucius has been actively engaged in the Orangeburg Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. for 8 years.Dad Lucius participated on the Regional level in Fall Area Workday; served as a Pop on Patrol; and traveled on the Teen college tour.On the Orangeburg Chapter level Dad Lucius participated in the chapter’s Kwanzaa/Christmas Social; the MLK Day of Service; Founder’s Day Worship Service; Teen activities; and Dad Lucius serviced as the medical facilitator for the Teen Activities at MUSC Orangeburg.Dad Lucius is an avid supporter of the Orangeburg Chapter of Jack and Jill, and enjoys being a part of nurturing our future African-American leaders.

Celebrating our Distinguished Father of the Year!