THE HISTORY OF THE GREATER GRAND RAPIDS CHAPTER

Greater Grand Rapids Chapter History

The Greater Grand Rapids Interest Group (GGRIG), which would be come to known as the West Michigan African American Mother’s Society (WMAAMS), was founded and organized in January 2008 by Delvenia Beason and Barbara Welch. The two firmly believed that a local organization should be in place for all African American children to provide enriching experiences through active participation in civic, social, educational, cultural and personal development to support the successful attainment of their goals, ambitions and aspirations.

At 41 members, the group received Provisional Group status in December 2008 and in January 2009 held its inaugural event, “Founder’s Day” which incidentally had an even greater relevance due to the successful election of the country’s first African American President and the subsequent Inaugural celebrations, which surrounded the occasion.

During the two and a half years as a Provisional Group, WMAAMS, sponsored by the Greater Lansing Chapter, went through the joys and pains of launching a new organization as well as learning the ways and culture of Jack and Jill. The group persevered under the theme of “Yes We Can!” and on July 30th 2010; the GGRIG was officially voted in as the Greater Grand Rapids Provisional Chapter at the 39th National Convention in Chicago, IL. On November 14th 2010, 16 members were installed as the Greater Grand Rapids Chapter of Jack and Jill of America. Past President Alice Peoples, Regional Director Kimberly Wills and Regional Programming Director Melanie Lynn attended the installation. Charter Members are as follows:

Marissa Baty

Delvenia Beason

Tracey Brame

Alida Bryant

Keli Christopher                         

Cristina Comer

Valencia Cooper                             

Stefanie Hearing                                                                                             

Tiesha Hogue

Laura Hopson

Yvonne Jackson

Eva Lauchie

Kimberley Sim