Mission
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African-American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.
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 two and nineteen. In 1946, ten chapters were involved in the national restructuring process. Constitution and bylaws were drawn up and the organization was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware.
Today, Jack and Jill boasts over 230 chapters nationwide, representing over 40,000 family members. Each chapter plans annual programming activities guided under a national theme. Through service projects, Jack and Jill of America creates a medium of contact for children to stimulate their growth and development
National History
Chapter History
While visiting her native Pennsylvania, Ruth Littlepage became acquainted with Jack and Jill of America, Inc. When she returned, she organized the Oklahoma City Chapter in 1942. The original group included:eight members:
Ruth Littlepage* Ruby Hall* Grace Palmore*
Doris Trotman* Sadye Boyd* Loeshia Moon*
Jennie Lou Pollard* Freddye Williams*
The Oklahoma City Chapter, a group of friends, continued to operate with mothers enjoying the activities as much as children. Membership changed slightly, but the chapter continued. In 1952, Dr. Alberta Turner, National President officially chartered the Oklahoma City Chapter. The event took place in the home of August Morgan. The following members were present:
Ruth Littlepage* Saretta Finley* Ruby Hall* Opaline Wadkins*
Jennie Lou Pollard* Cernoria Johnson* Elwyn Breaux* Gloria Massey*
Thelma Gorham* Gay Biscoe* Mattie Locust* August Morgham Jean Harvey* Alberta Slaughter* Irene Kimbrough*
*Deceased
.