Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, by Marion Stubbs Thomas. The purpose of the organization is to provide social, cultural and educational opportunities for youth between the ages of two and nineteen. Jack and Jill is comprised of over 220 chapters nationwide. As a Chapter we strive to carry out the mission of the national organization here in Prince George’s County.
To learn more about our national organization, please visit:
Jack and Jill boasts 262 chapters nationwide, representing more than 50,000 family members. Each chapter plans annual programming activities guided under a general five point programmatic thrust: cultural awareness, educational development, health (education and advocacy), civic (legislative advocacy and service) and social/recreational areas. Through service projects, Jack and Jill of America creates a medium of contact for children to stimulate their growth and development. Through lobbying, educational programming, dissemination of education materials, and the organization of community and charitable events, Jack and Jill has promoted the public awareness and interests of children including child development, child growth, child quality of life, child care and the promotion of children’s rights.
Chapter History
The Prince George’s County Interest Group of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated was founded in 1973 as a provisional chapter by Ms. Geneva Mays. Under the sponsorship of the Washington, D.C. Chapter and under the special guidance of Ms. Patricia Morris, the group was officially installed as a chapter in 1974. Geneva Mays became the chapter’s first President and established a strong foundation for effective chapter programs, positive youth development and service to the community.
Our beloved chapter was chartered by forty-one esteemed charter members:
​
From its inception, the Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill (PGCJ&J) has conducted quality children’s programming and community service projects that embody the ideals of Jack and Jill of America and are procured to leave a legacy of meaningful impact on those it touches.
​
Here are a few highlights of our service and endless commitment to our families and community over the years:
On June 5, 1976, the Chapter held its first bicentennial mini-cruise/ball fundraiser to benefit the Howard University Center for Sickle Cell Anemia and the Jack and Jill Foundation. The chapter provided $500 for Sickle Cell Research.
On March 26, 1977, the Le Jacques (Father’s Auxiliary Group) hosted its annual wine and cheese benefit for scholarships.
On February 15, 1986, the chapter held its Second Annual Red Velvet Dinner Dance to benefit the Jackson-Newman Foundation.
In 2007, the chapter received an Eastern Region Program Award for its chapter-wide “JingleJam/ Soulful Santa” Celebration.
In 2008, our Associates group re-formed, the chapter hosted the inaugural Maryland Coalition Founder’s Day Celebration, and we were issued an outstanding rating for one of our legislative activities.
From 2009 to 2010, the chapter won an award for Module Madness in the financial literacy category.
In 2011, PGCJ&J hosted a private educational event with acclaimed neurosurgeon pioneer Ben Carson at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and in that same year, we successfully hosted the Eastern Region Southern Cluster.
In 2014, the chapter celebrated 40 years in grand style with a Jazz Brunch overlooking the waters of the beautiful Maryland National Harbor.
Also, in 2014, the chapter was recognized as a Foundation Partner for Philanthropic Giving by the National Office of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. That same year, we garnered a 1st Place Superior Programming Award - Best in Nation and Region for Color Me Healthy: Health and Fitness Expo (Cultural Heritage Category).
The year 2015 saw the chapter receive two Eastern Region awards: a 2nd Place Community Service Award and a 3rd Place Senior Teen Fundraising Award.
In 2016, we were awarded National recognition, receiving a 2nd Place Outstanding Programming Award for Color Me Healthy: Health and Fitness Expo (Cultural Thrust Category). The tradition continued through 2018, when, under the leadership of Treasurer Connie Page, the chapter achieved a 2nd place Eastern Region Treasurer’s Award and a 3rd place “Best of the Best” programming award for its 2017 Home for the Holidays event.
Also, in 2018, we were recognized at the national convention in Kansas City with a 2nd Place Outstanding Programming Award - National Recognition for Color Me Healthy: Health and Fitness Expo (Cultural Thrust Category).
The chapter also enjoys national award recognition for receiving Superior ratings on its Program Handbook in the years 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. Though the chapter is grateful for the awards it has received, its impact on the community is the source of its most incredible pride.
As the Chapter celebrates its 50th year, the commitment to the community remains the steady focus. We emphasize early childhood literacy through a partnership with Title I School, Columbia Park Elementary, and donated new, gently used books and school supplies. It has continued to expand and flourish.
