Programming

Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter Programs

As Program Director of the Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter, I strive to ensure that the Programmatic goals are achieved each program year. Programming is the heart and core of our organization and with each activity mothers add another star to the report card of life to ensure that we are grooming future leaders. As a chapter we collectively endeavor to create a safe space for our children to explore their curiosities and interests. We hold steadfast to the idea that we, as mothers, will learn so much as we study our children while we nurture and cultivate their desire to learn. Long live Jack and Jill! 

Program Director -
Ryanna Blackburn
We are organized in five children's groups, based on grade levels, and plan activities that support appropriate learning and entertainment for each group. Our activities are aim to meet the following additional initiatives as set by the national organization: cultural, social, recreational, legislative, and community service.

​Our age groups are broken into 5 groups based on school grade:

  • Group I: Pre-School – Kindergarten
  • Group II: Grades 1 – 3
  • Group III: Grades 4 – 5
  • Group IV: Grades 6 – 8 (Middle School)
  • Group V: Teens: Grades 9 – 12 (High School)

In addition to our age group programming and activities, the Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter plans for all-family activities that strengthen our growth as a village.  They include the following:

Jack & Jill Day (September)

A day to bring all of the membership together after the summer break. Began in 1948 under the direction of Dorothy Wright, our first National President.

​Carole Robertson Day (September)

In honor of Carole, a member of our teen group in Birmingham, AL. She was killed in the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing on September 15, 1963. We honor her with an activity that would highlight the goals of human rights, civil rights, racial harmony that she did not live to enjoy.

National Black Family Day (May)

This day began in May of 1987 when The Honorable William Gray III, Congressman from Pennsylvania, entered a tribute to Jack and Jill of America into the Congressional Record as the organization embarked upon a Black Family Day of Celebration. The focus is on family and the cultural heritage of families for African Americans.​