National Days of Recognition
Images courtesy of the Phenomenal Phoenix Chapter and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
Jack and Jill Day
Each September, chapters across the country celebrate Jack and Jill Day, a tradition that began in 1948 under the leadership of Dorothy Wright, our first National President. This special observance was created to emphasize the importance of family and togetherness.
Chapters are required to host a family-centered activity during September to bring members together after the summer break. While the day primarily aligns with the Social and Recreational programmatic thrusts, many chapters also incorporate elements of Cultural Heritage into their celebrations. The goal is to launch the new program year with a joyful, family-focused event that reflects the heart of our organization.
Carole Robertson Day
Also observed in September, Carole Robertson Day honors the life and legacy of Carole Robertson, a 14-year-old Jack and Jill teen from Birmingham, Alabama, who tragically lost her life in the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing on September 15, 1963.
Carole was preparing to march for civil rights that day, embodying the values of human rights, civil rights, and racial harmony that she never lived to see fulfilled. Her mother served as the Southeastern Regional Director, and her story continues to inspire generations of Jack and Jill youth.
Chapters nationwide commemorate her courage and commitment through meaningful ceremonies, reflections, and youth-led activities that promote unity, awareness, and justice.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
Each January, our chapter joins Jack and Jill families across the nation to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through a day dedicated to service, compassion, and community impact.
In the spirit of Dr. King’s vision, members engage in meaningful projects that uplift and support underserved communities, demonstrating that leadership begins with love and action. Whether serving meals, organizing donations, or volunteering locally, our families proudly reflect the principle that “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.”
Chapter Founders’ Day
Founders’ Day celebrates the visionary mothers who established Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. The South Belt Houston Chapter joins the 11 Houston-area chapters for a festive luncheon honoring our founders, charter members, and associate members.
This event serves as a heartfelt reminder of our organization’s enduring purpose—to strengthen families and build leaders through love, service, and sisterhood.
National Black Family Day
Observed on the first Sunday in May, National Black Family Day unites all Jack and Jill chapters across the nation in a celebration of family, culture, and community.
The day was officially recognized in May 1987, when The Honorable William Gray III, Congressman from Pennsylvania, entered a tribute to Jack and Jill of America into the Congressional Record, marking the organization’s first Black Family Day of Celebration.
Each year, chapters celebrate through family picnics, recognition ceremonies, and community service projects, all highlighting the strength, pride, and cultural heritage of the Black family.