The Cincinnati Chapter

The Cincinnati Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. was born from community activism and a commitment to expanding opportunities for African American children. In 1952, future charter members—including Marian Spencer, who later became Cincinnati’s Vice Mayor—joined the NAACP’s successful fight to desegregate Coney Island and Sunlite Pool. Inspired by this work, Mary Evelyn LaNier and Mary Woods gathered local mothers dedicated to advancing their children’s educational, civic, social, and leadership development. The provisional chapter was formalized on March 14, 1953, by National President Dr. Alberta Banner Turner. On December 6, 1953, the Cincinnati Chapter was officially installed as the 51st chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., with 33 mother members and 60 children.