Magnifying Black Power, Evolving by the Hour
Dedicated to the Marvelous Memphis Chapter’s Teens This has truly been an awesome and inspiring program year, as your Chapter Teen Historian. I hope I have captured how amazingly talented, incredibly smart, and civic-minded you really are everyday. Best Wishes,
I HAVE A DREAM THAT MY FOUR LITTLE CHILDREN WILL ONE DAY LIVE IN A NATION WHERE THEY WILL NOT BE JUDGED BY THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN, BUT BY THE CONTENT OF THEIR CHARACTER. DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR On August 28, 1963, sixty years ago, 250,000 people marched for jobs and freedom to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
EXECUTIVE BOARD Mekhi Blakemore Teen President Soraya Norris Teen 1st Vice President Joshua Robinson Teen 2nd Vice President Obala Onyeagocha Teen Corresponding Secretary Olivia Cyrus Teen Recording Secretary Phillip Wofford Teen Treasurer Ryan James Teen Chaplain Matthew Nichols Teen Parliamentarian Russell Maples Teen Editor/Historian Kennedy Graham Teen Foundation Chair TEEN Madison Mack Teen Sergeant-At-Arms Lauren Stafford Teen Sergeant-At-Arms
July 2023
67th Southeastern Regional Teen Conference This year's theme was "Black Excellence: Aspire to Build An Empire". The Memphis Chapter was represented by delegates Mekhi Blakemore, Memphis Teen President, with alternates Soraya Norris, 1st Teen Vice President, and Joshua Robinson, 2nd Teen Vice President. Accomplishments: Jack Aaron McClarty was appointed as a Regional Teen Teller for the conference. Memphis Chapter placed 2nd for chapter banner competition, designed by Jill Olivia Cyrus. Graduated Seniors Mark Blakemore Jr. and Ramyla Dahmer were honored at the Breakfast of Champions for submitting portfolios for competition. Jill Kennedy Graham represented the Memphis Chapter as a member of the Regional Nominating Committee by facilitating the candidate fishbowl Q&A during the Candidate Forum Jack Joshua Robinson from Memphis Chapter was elected for Regional Nominating Committee as second alternate. Game Day: Memphis Teens participated in football, tennis, basketball, pickleball, volleyball and soccer. Jill Ramyla Dahmer won for girls pickleball! More photos can be found at https://zenfolio.page.link/TKc7T using password greaterthangreat2023. Many thanks to our extraordinary Chaperone Moms for their selfless service, dedication and commitment to our Memphis Teens: Jara Best, Sharon Wofford, Pam Bails, Ebony Clark, Rushelle Cyrus, LaCanas Mack, Marva Maples, Sandra Nichols and Latreka Smith!
Bridge Builders Russell, Kayden, & Matthew Week of 7/24/2023 Bridge Builders ElisabethRose Bush
Memphis Chapter Teens had an awesome opportunity this summer at Morehouse College and Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. Jacks Braden, Douglas, Andrew and Malik participated in the "Jacks in the House" Leadership Academy, while Jill Sydney represented at "Jills Take Spelman" Leadership Institute! Both programs provided a week-long residency with leadership workshops with career experts, college preparation, Spelman and Morehouse networking events and much more. So proud of our Memphis Teens for participating in this awesome personal and professional development experience! Summer 2023
The spirit of giving was in full effect. Donations were collected and delivered to our community partner, Vance Avenue Youth Development Center. Thanks to the generosity of our Jack and Jill families, members of the community were able to enjoy a warm winter season. Teens Doing Good in the Neighborhood July 2023
July 2023 The Memphis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc and our phenomenal Vogue and Esquires, presented a check of $1,882.66 to The No More Silence Foundation. A big thank you to Jill Alexis Stout and Mom Marcia Stout for representing our Chapter and presenting the check.
July 2023 The Memphis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc and our Foundation Chairs Nieika Parks and Erica Conley, along with CP Chii Onyeagocha presented a check of $4,000 for Transportation Program Assistance and another check in the amount of $2,125 to The Sickle Cell Foundation of Tennessee on behalf of our Vogue and Esquires who raised the funds. Teens we are so proud of you and your commitment to making a difference in our community.
August 2023 In August 2023, College Board recognized and awarded students from across the country with academic honors through the National Recognition Program. High-achieving students from all 50 states and U.S territories were eligible to apply. The program celebrated and recognized underrepresented students who excelled academically on College Board assessments, including PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 and AP exams. Jack Obaladike was one of the eight GMSD students recognized and will be awarded a scholarship through the National African American Recognition Award (NAARA). Congratulations Jack Obaladike, we are so proud of you. Elected by his peers, our very own Jack Arthur Wharton is poised to lead the student body by example by being an excellent role model of moral character, academic integrity and leadership ability. In his own words, Jack Arthur states, he ran for SGA President because he wanted to positively impact the school, listen to the concerns of the students and do something about it. We are so proud of you Jack Arthur. Jill Olivia Cyrus is a CHS Class of 2024 National Merit Commended Scholar. We are so very proud of you and all your accomplishments.
Vogue & Esquire Retreat August Activity Saturday, August 12, 2023
With the help of the Moms and the encouraging Pinecrest Camp leaders we learned very important team building skills and made better connections with one another as a chapter. This was the first step in moving forward to becoming a Fivestar chapter. By using the campgrounds as a serene escape from our phones and other parts of our lives, we bettered ourselves morally and in understanding the exchange of leadership and the Mind Map Vision Board Module "Ethics" are principles that guide behavior, while "integrity" suggests that we should carry out ethical principles in our daily lives and activities, rather than espousing an ideal and then doing something contradictory. Brainstorm your goals and dreams. Focus on the one(s) you want to manifest 1. 2.Set goals. Make them concrete and measurable 3.Create steps toward your goal 4. Set your timeline for accomplishing the goal effect it has when there is more than one or a few people contributing to a group. When you can engage everyone by letting others have a space to talk as well as listen is when a group can achieve success through collaboration and cooperation. Combining all the activities together, I think as a chapter we can individually take something positive away from it in the end. Integrity & Ethics Module
Teen's Accountability Partners Mekhi Blakemore & Chase Givens Sydney Murray & Benjamin Blackwell Logan Jones & Bryant Newberry Obala Onyeagocha & Russell Maples Andrew Wharton & Scotty (Tripp) Hendricks III Lauren Stafford & Sophia Henderson Curtis Givens & Macy Mack Aaron McClarty & MacKenzie Bails Joshua White & Matthew Nichols Joshua Robinson & Kylie Carson Ryan James & Ramon Dahmer Braden Jackson & Dylan Graham Lindsey Houser & Kayden Morgan Jordyn Cobb & Mya Mack Olivia Cyrus & Gavin Johnson Kennedy Graham & Rhys Clark Alexis Stout & Owen Smith Brooke Jackson & Ryann Clark
As We Pray Vogue & Esquire Dear Lord, August is the beginning of our new school year for us all. We pray for your guidance as we take on the challenges of new schedules, difficult course work, sports, and relationships. Please keep us grounded and focused as we navigate new situations. Help us to approach our S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely) goals in an effective and impactful manner. Keep us in high spirits, allow us to persevere through struggles, knowing that you don't give us more than we can handle. Keep us close to each other as we grow closer to you. Lord we love you, Amen. Ryan James Vogue & Esquire Teen Chaplain
SEPTEMBER 2023
Teens interacted with speakers presenting on College preparedness. Presentations included scholarships, FASFA, Work study, and entrepreneurial businesses you can do on campus -like braiding hair, cutting hair, tutoring, etc. The teens also received a presentation "We are College Bound" via QR code.
OCTOBER 2023
OCTOBER 2023
Jacks and Jills participated in a public service announcement recording for all age groups in the chapter. We came together, each age group discussed the various legislatives supported by Jack and Jill, what the legislation meant and how it impacted our community. Not only did Jacks and Jills record, but they also participated in a photo shoot with various signage regarding the legislation and heard from a Jack and Jill pop and newly elected Memphis Mayor Paul Young. He discussed the election process with them, the importance of knowing the issues, and fighting for justice through the ballot.
DECEMBER 2023
Teens Ryan & Lauren For over 85 years, Jack and Jill of America Inc. has been a beacon of change, igniting inspiration and making a profound impact on the lives of ALL children. We achieve this by offering a wide spectrum of educational, artistic, cultural, athletic, and social activities that nurture well-rounded, happy, and resilient children, primed to realize their full potential. The Memphis Chapter is deeply committed to our community, dedicating time to connect with senior citizens, organizing health fairs in underserved areas, and distributing thousands of books, backpacks, luggage, and culturally sensitive hair and body care items to homeless African American families in Memphis. Our passion for making a positive difference is unwavering, and we're thrilled to continue our journey. Join us for a night of cinematic excellence and social impact. Let's come together to celebrate the power of change and the joy of giving back. DECEMBER 2023
DECEMBER 2023 Annually, teens volunteer to make Santa’s breakfast a festive and funfilled experience. They setup games, crafts, and play music for all to enjoy.
DECEMBER 2023
DECEMBER 2023 Congratulations to our gorgeous V&E Debutantes. You all looked absolutely amazing and we are all so proud of your accomplishments.
DECEMBER 2023 On December 23, 2023, the Memphis Chapter embarked on a festive giving mission and generously donated over 1,000 items worth of gifts to the Vance Avenue Youth Development Center. Our Chapter teens graciously assisted in the shopping and presentation process. Big thanks to Jill Alexis who helped shop and donated extra sneakers and all our other teens, moms and pops who came out to support Vance. The Memphis Chapter also donated to the No More Silence Foundation, an organization that provides coping mechanisms through the arts using multiple educational strategies to help families cope after sexual abuse trauma.
DECEMBER 2023 The Memphis Chapter of Jack and Jill Inc. presented a Taste of Kwanzaa bridging the African diaspora with The African American experience through food, community, and music. We had samples of some of the most delectable popular dishes found in several different African descent homes as well as African American homes.
DECEMBER 2023 The teens were hostesses and servers at the Kwanzaa Celebration.
Joy and Leo embark on an unforgettable journey in a world where learning disabilities create challenges for them in the classroom. Leo’s wandering mind leads him to excessively daydream, while Joy struggles with anxiety and self-doubt. As they confront the hurdles of their learning differences, they realize that being different is a gift, not a failure. CJ and Jordan desire to normalize the discussion about neurodivergent students and create awareness about the challenges, tools, and techniques that are available to support them. The end goal is to help all students embrace their Bright Brains. DECEMBER 2023 Joy and Leo’s Bright Brain: Joy and Leo Learn to Embrace Their Learning Disability Jack Carlton William Greene, Jr. (CJ) is an Author and Youth Advocate for neurodivergent students. He recently co-authored his 2nd book project with his sister, former Jill Jordan Ashley Greene.
FEBRUARY 2024 Pyro’s donated to Jack and Jill Memphis Teen’s Fundraiser event when you mentioned Jack and Jill with each purchase. Proceeds to benefit local community partners and Jack and Jill Foundat.ion Victoria Henderson Joshua Henderson Sophia Henderson Bryant Newberry Jordyn Cobb Ryan James Ramon Dahmer Carri Benson Kayden Morgan Lindsey Houser Mikelle Blakemore Mekhi Blakemore Russell Maples Mackenzie Bails Ryann Clark Obaladike Onyeagocha Olivia Cyrus Joshua White Soraya Norris Zoe Young Amirah Abdus-Salaam Sidraah Abdus-Salaam Joshua Robinson Tripp Hendricks Lauren Coleman Double Good Participants
The Teens were able to enjoy the Collage Dance Collective RISE performance. The teens also were able to learn about opportunities to study the arts/performing arts at HBCUs. We started the event by providing the teens with a study guide. The guide provided information about the Collage Dance Collective and the impact of this non-profit on the Memphis community. The study guide also included information about performing arts programs at HBCUs. The students then gathered at the Cannon Center for the performing arts to enjoy the performance. We asked the teens to wear HBCU paraphernalia to celebrate the impact of HBCUS on our community. The show was set the the powerful words of Dr. Martin Luther King Junior. It was a powerful exploration into the the rich culture of African Americans and their impact on ballet and dance. After the phenomenal performance, the teens were invited to a reception where they were able to meet and talk with the dance director and CEO of the Collage Dance Collective. The highlight of the activity was watching two of our Jills performing with the company. It was a perfect start to Black History Month.
Our winner for the 2024 Ann Owen Gordon Oratorical Contest Division II (ages 16-19) "Magnifying Black Power Evolving by the Hour." is Andrew Wharton and our winner for the Speak Up, Speak Out (ages 10-12) is "Leading Today to Achieve Tomorrow" is Arthur Wharton. Congrats to all our teens who participated. There was a tie in the Speak up, Speak out Division, so it was tough. Jack Andrew Wharton will be representing our Chapter at the Tennessee Supercluster hosted by the Greater Chattanooga Chapter in Chattanooga TN, on Saturday April 13, 2024.
Our winner for the 2024 Ann Owen Gordon Oratorical Contest Division II (ages 16-19) "MagnifyingIn an exciting venture, the Memphis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., journeyed to Nashville, Tennessee for a "Day at the Capitol" to witness the legislative process in action. During the visits, we enthusiastically encourage our Jacks and Jills to embrace their own power of advocacy and actively participate in being the change they want to see. Our Jacks and Jills did a phenomenal job participating in the Mock Senate, taking the lead on answering questions and introducing our local legislators. The chapter attendees also took the opportunity to capture memorable moments by taking pictures with State Representatives Justin J. Pearson and Justin Jones, showcasing the engagement and collaboration between our community and legislative leaders. We thank our Legislative Chair Monee Dahmer for her leadership and all the Mothers and Jacks & Jills who attended to represent our Chapter and our State. Our youngest budding legislators to ever attend DATC Jills Sevyn Hendricks and Lily Pourciau were recognized by the state JJ Chair and given a special gift token for their attendance and leadership. Special thanks to First Lady Mom Jamila Smith-Young and Jill Zoe for taking a detour from a planned trip with Pop Mayor Pop Paul Young to attend and support our Chapter and Children. Black Power Evolving by the Hour." is Andrew Wharton and our winner for the Speak Up, Speak Out (ages 10-12) is "Leading Today to Achieve Tomorrow" is Arthur Wharton. Congrats to all our teens who participated. There was a tie in the Speak up, Speak out Division, so it was tough. Jack Andrew Wharton will be representing our Chapter at the Tennessee Supercluster hosted by the Greater Chattanooga Chapter in Chattanooga TN, on Saturday April 13, 2024. MARCH 2024
MARCH 2024
MARCH 2024 A time was had with JJOA families from all over the country. From the fantastic food in the French quarter to the excursion to Whitney Plantation and French Quarter Tour, the HBCU homecoming experience, teen party, fathers casino night, reading and games corner for our younger ones, defining experience tours for all age-groups and a fabulous Mardi Gras "Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler" big easy experience and dinner party, there was indeed something for everyone in attendance to enjoy. A 4 days and 3 nights of what makes JJ so special. Definitely an but for Jack and Jill experience to look forward to.
MARCH 2024 The Memphis Chapter could not have written a better story than the 2024 Beautillion that took place on Saturday. We thank the Shelby County Chapter of the Links Inc. for planning and hosting. We are proud of our Jacks who participated - Braden Jackson, Andrew Wharton, CJ Green and Joshua White. We also had our Jill Baili Price perform so gracefully and also our very own RNC Tracy serenade us all night with her lovely voice. It was truly a night to remember.