As we celebrate Black History Month, USTA NorCal is proud to spotlight the Oakland Bay Area Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. For nearly 70 years, this organization has been dedicated to empowering African-American youth through leadership development, education and community service. Through initiatives like the USTA NorCal tennis clinic, the chapter continues to create meaningful opportunities for children to grow, connect and thrive. In this Q&A feature, we explore the chapter’s history, its impact on the community, and how tennis aligns with its mission of fostering future leaders.
Q: Can you share a brief history of the Jack and Jill Oakland Bay Area Chapter and its impact on the community?
A: Jack and Jill of America, Inc. was founded in 1938 with the vision of fostering a national network of families dedicated to developing African-American children. The Oakland Bay Area Chapter (OBAC) was established in 1955 by 25 visionary mothers with a commitment to community and youth development. Over the years, OBAC has grown to include 94 families in Oakland and the East Bay region, upholding Jack and Jill’s mission of cultural enrichment, educational development, health education, civic engagement, and community service. The chapter’s commitment to leadership and community service has had a profound impact on the region, with its members contributing to the advancement of children’s education, social welfare, and advocacy efforts.
Q: How does your chapter support Jack and Jill’s mission of developing future African-American leaders?
A: The Oakland Bay Area Chapter supports our national Jack and Jill's mission by focusing on creating opportunities for youth to develop leadership skills through mentorship, cultural awareness, and community service. We provide children with exposure to key topics such as advocacy, education and civic engagement through structured programs, leadership roles and community projects. By fostering an environment that emphasizes personal growth and social responsibility, we are equipping the next generation of African-American leaders to excel in all aspects of life.
Q: How does tennis align with Jack and Jill’s focus on youth development and wellness?Tennis aligns with Jack and Jill’s focus on youth development and wellness by encouraging physical fitness, discipline and perseverance. Tennis fosters teamwork, concentration, and resilience, all of which are important components of overall development. Additionally, the sport promotes wellness by teaching children about the importance of regular exercise, maintaining an active lifestyle and the benefits of both mental and physical health.
Q: Back in April 2024, USTA NorCal hosted a tennis clinic in celebration of Jack and Jill Health and Wellness Initiative Month. What impact did that event have on the children and families who participated?
A: The tennis clinic co-hosted by our chapter and USTA NorCal had a significant impact on both the children and their families by introducing them to a new sport while emphasizing the importance of physical fitness. It provided a fun and supportive environment where participants could learn the basics of tennis, connect with other families and gain valuable exposure to an activity that promotes health and well-being. The event also highlighted the chapter’s commitment to health and wellness and helped foster a sense of community among members.
See photos from the clinic here.
Q: Were there any standout moments from the clinic that highlighted the value of introducing kids to tennis?
A: One standout moment from the clinic was seeing how quickly the children embraced the sport, many of them showing a natural talent for the game. Their excitement was contagious, as they not only learned tennis fundamentals but also worked together in teams, demonstrating the spirit of sportsmanship and collaboration. It was inspiring to witness how tennis can foster not only physical skill but also a sense of community and belonging, especially for children who may not have had exposure to the sport before.
Q: How does your chapter celebrate Black History Month, and why is it important to your members?
A: Our chapter celebrates Black History Month with a series of activities that highlight the achievements, contributions and culture of African Americans throughout history. We focus on educating our children about the importance of their heritage while also fostering pride in their identity. For our members, Black History Month is a time to reflect on our shared legacy and the ongoing work to ensure that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and tools to continue making positive contributions to society.
Q: How do events like the tennis clinic help strengthen community connections and representation in sports?
A: Events like the tennis clinic serve as a platform for children to connect with each other and with positive role models in the sports world, breaking down barriers to access and representation in tennis. By introducing kids from diverse backgrounds to tennis, we are not only promoting physical fitness but also empowering them to see themselves in sports where African-American representation may be limited. These events strengthen community bonds by bringing families together and showcasing the importance of diversity and inclusion in all fields.
Q: What advice would you give to young Black children exploring new sports like tennis?
A: My advice would be to approach tennis, or any new sport, with an open mind and a positive attitude. Don’t be afraid to try something new, even if it feels challenging at first. Remember that sports are not only about winning—they’re about learning, growing, and having fun. Stay committed, be patient with yourself, and trust in the process. You might discover a passion for tennis that opens up new opportunities and helps you build important life skills such as discipline, resilience, and teamwork.
Q: How can community members get involved with Jack and Jill and support your mission?
A: Community members can get involved with Jack and Jill by volunteering, attending events, or making contributions to support our programs. We welcome those who share our commitment to developing the next generation of African-American leaders. Supporting our initiatives, whether through time, talent or donations, helps ensure that we can continue providing valuable opportunities for youth development, community service, and cultural enrichment.
Q: Are there any upcoming programs or initiatives you’re excited about?
A: We are thrilled about several key initiatives on the horizon. A major highlight is our chapter's 70th Anniversary celebration on March 1st, marking a significant milestone that will honor our rich history and the many achievements of our members. Following that, we are excited for our annual Flip Flop Fundraiser on March 22nd and the Northern California Regional Children’s Cluster on March 29th, both of which further our commitment to community engagement and youth development. In addition to these events, we will continue to strengthen our partnerships with local church health ministries to provide health education and blood pressure screenings, as well as collaborate with the Alameda County Food Bank to support our community. Our annual Blood Drive in April is another key initiative, where we not only donate blood but also advocate for sickle cell disease awareness, a genetic condition that disproportionately affects people of African descent. We are also proud to support the March of Dimes, given our shared mission to improve health outcomes for women and infants, both in the U.S. and globally. Our chapter will maintain its focus on empowering our children and families through monthly educational programs and health and wellness events. A key priority going forward is the expansion of our youth leadership programs, offering more opportunities for children to assume leadership roles and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Finally, we are excited to forge new partnerships that will expose our children to a variety of sports, including tennis, ensuring they have access to activities that promote personal growth and physical well-being.
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