Jack and Jill of America, Inc., San Diego Chapter History

In January of 1955, the late Mrs. Voradel Carey brought a group of San Diego mothers together to learn about Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. Mrs. Carey, a modest, respected community leader, was encouraged by the mother’s interest. She quickly organized a tea attended by Dr. Geraldine Woods, President of the Los Angeles Chapter. Through Dr. Woods, mothers learned about the national organization’s focus on promoting the spiritual, social, physical and cultural welfare of children.

Sponsored by the Los Angeles Chapter, the San Diego Chapter was installed in August of 1955 at the landmark U.S. Grant Hotel. Then National Secretary, Dr. Ruth Howard of San Francisco served as Installing Officer.

Today, Chapter mothers are involved with local nonprofits and participate in San Diego’s historic Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade.

The San Diego Chapter includes nearly 30 active families including 28 children and 14 teens, and a wonderful group of active Associate Jewels. Combined with our children and our Jacks, the Chapter represents more than 100 current and future leaders whose primary residence in San Diego County south of Highway 52.

Significant Chapter Milestones

50th Anniversary Gala

In celebration of the San Diego Chapter’s 50th Anniversary, in 2005 the Chapter hosted a Gala Celebration: “Out of Africa: Honoring Our Heritage.” Held at the Sheraton Marina San Diego Hotel, the Gala was attended by many members, Jacks, and friends from throughout the San Diego community.

The Associates Chapter is Chartered

In February of 2014, the Associates Chapter, affectionately known as ‘Pink Pearls’ was chartered in a lovely ceremony performed by National Editor Regina Page. The ceremony was held in the home of then San Diego Chapter President Angela Hilliard.

60th Anniversary Luncheon

In early 2016, the Chapter hosted a beautiful luncheon to commemorate the Chapter’s 60th Anniversary. It was attended by several former Chapter presidents, current mother members, and the adult children of former members. Then President Leonie Porcher-Sanders presented Mrs. Ardelle Matthews, 1966 -1968 Chapter President, with a beautiful framed painting created by a mother member. Guests proudly represented the six decades of the Chapter’s rich history in San Diego.

The San Diego Chapter Donates $1000 to Positive Movement Foundation
The Chapter was very proud to donate 1,000 to the Positive Movement Foundation which is a nonprofit organization that serves San Diego youth.

The San Diego Chapter Teens 2020 Donate record amount to The Monarch School
The teen group were able to utilize SnapRaise to raise a record amount in fundraising giving over $2800.00 to The Monarch School during COVID! Their efforts made them the top fundraiser for the Far West Region.

The San Diego Chapter Hosts 2022 Area Work Day
An amazing Area Workday Cluster was hosted by the Sensational San Diego Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc! Over 350 moms from the Fabulous Far West Region attended this lovely event to collaborate and fellowship on behalf of our children.

San Diego Chapter Hosts the 2024 Far West Region Children’s Cluster 
It was both an educational and a fun Cluster for all ages. There was specific enriching experiences catered specifically to all five age groups for the children of the Far West Region. The cluster was very well attended at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.