About Us
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. nurtures future African American leaders through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, civic engagement, and meaningful family-centered programming.
Strengthening children.
Building leaders.
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2–19. Our mission is to nurture future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, and civic engagement.
Rooted in vision
and service.
Founded on January 24, 1938, by Marion Stubbs Thomas in Philadelphia, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. began with twenty visionary mothers dedicated to creating social, cultural, and educational opportunities for youth.
In 1946, the organization was incorporated under the laws of Delaware and has since grown into a powerful national network. Today, Jack and Jill includes 270 chapters nationwide, representing more than 50,000 family members.
Growing together. Leading together.
Our chapter creates meaningful experiences that bring mothers, children, teens, and families together through service, leadership, culture, friendship, and community.
Our Five-Point Programmatic Thrust
Every chapter’s programming is guided by five core pillars that help children grow, lead, serve, and build meaningful connections.
Cultural
Awareness
Preserving heritage and honoring contributions while preparing children for the future.
Educational
Development
Equipping children with skills, knowledge, and integrity to become tomorrow’s leaders.
Social &
Recreational
Encouraging balance, healthy relationships, and positive growth through social interaction.
Health
Promoting awareness, empowerment, and healthy lifestyles for families and communities.
Civic
Advocating for legislation and initiatives that uplift and protect all children.
Holistic enrichment, from the classroom to the community.
Our programs are primarily centered around leadership development, awareness of cultural heritage and community service. To these ends, we have established multifaceted initiatives such as STE[A]M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math), the Healthy Living Initiative (centered on lifestyle improvements and healthy development) and various projects with our national and local partners. The philosophy we embrace is one of holistic enrichment of our youth and, by extension, our communities.
Cultural
Programs emphasizing African American history, culture, and achievements.
- MLK Day of Service and HBCU Activate initiatives
- Showcasing Black leaders, authors, and inventors
Education
Empowering our future leaders through actionable knowledge.
- Leadership development curriculum, grades 6–12
- Career Conversations
- Financial literacy core modules, grades 3–12
- STE[A]M — science, technology, engineering, arts, and math
Health
The Healthy Living Initiative spans the full spectrum of well-being.
- Nutritional
- Physical
- Mental
- Emotional
Civic
Legislative advocacy paired with hands-on community service.
- Voter advocacy, The CROWN Act, and gun violence prevention
- Policing reform, mental health, and education equity
- Food insecurity and homelessness
- Maternal health and human trafficking awareness
Social & Recreational
Confidence, communication, and healthy recreation.
- Public speaking and interviewing skills
- Safe social media practices
- Gavel Club and oratorical training
- Outdoor exploration and team sports
AARP · American Heart Association · American Red Cross · Boys & Girls Clubs · The CROWN Act · INROADS · March of Dimes · Morehouse College · Spelman College · St. Jude · UNICEF · USTA · When We All Vote
See the full programmatic thrust at Jack and Jill of America, Inc. →
Membership Information
How to Join
Membership is by invitation only and requires sponsorship from a current member of the chapter. Prospective members are invited to an informational meeting where qualifications, costs, and the selection process are discussed. Final approval is completed by a chapter vote.
Legacy Membership
Children or spouses of children whose mothers were members in good standing are eligible to apply for Legacy Membership. Legacy forms are available through our National Office.
