article by Lori Lakin Hutcherson (@lakinhutcherson)
Jack and Jill of America, Inc.’s youngest members collected pennies, nickels and dimes as part of their Loose Change Program that resulted in a $35,000 donation to the Obama Foundation, in support of Chicago’s Barack Obama Presidential Library. Mothers and families of Jack and Jill of America in Chicago came together to present the foundation with the donation in a private celebration.
“The Mid Western Region was incredibly honored to present this donation that not only honors the first African-American US President, Barack Obama, but makes an impact in a community that needs positive reinforcements and contributions,” says Mid-Western Regional Director Nadine Gibson. “As advocates for childhood literacy, Jack and Jill understands the important role public libraries play in communities.”
The Loose Change program was initiated as a giving opportunity for our youth ages two through 12, to make a significant impact in underserved communities. The Mid-Western Region received the donation collected in 2015 and selected the Barack Foundation as the recipient of choice.
“We are excited about this giving opportunity. Now, each time we visit the Library we will know that Jack and Jill helped to make a positive contribution to its development and commitment to the community,” says Mid-Western Regional Teen President, Kellen Love.
For more information on how you can make a donation, or to find out more about Jack and Jill of America and its chapters, visit jackandjillinc.org.
Founded in January 1938, 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. 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. As the philanthropic arm of Jack and Jill of America, the Jack and Jill Foundation directs funds to chapters, organizations and communities that support the aims and thrust of Jack and Jill. Since its inception in 1968, the Foundation has distributed millions of dollars to communities across America.
Suggested correction: In second paragraph the organization should be Jack and Jill, not Jack in Jill.
thank you – changed!
Thank you to these wonderful young people and their parents/mentors for doing such a good job. Kudos!