Jennifer Ellis-Jackson first heard about Hephzibah Children’s Association as a member of Western Cook County’s Jack & Jill of America, a national organization dedicated to nurturing future African-American leaders by supporting children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, and civic duty. Jennifer was asked to consider a volunteer leadership position at Hephzibah by Leslie Jones, long-time Hephzibah board member, when the two of them met at the community dog park. Since then, she has guided our board through two leadership transitions, contributing her invaluable experience and perspective to both search committees. “My first interaction with Hephzibah as a volunteer was filled with love, compassion and collaboration,” according to Jennifer. “Hephzibah employees, donors, and supporters feel a connection that resonates with how Hephzibah serves children and families.” Jennifer is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® (AKA), an international service organization founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. in 1908 and the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women.
“Each time I have an opportunity to interact with children in Hephzibah’s daycare and group home, I have a sense of pride. The daycare staff focuses on treating children with respect and dignity. The group home staff work in very complex environments, yet they are passionate, loving, and supportive which many children come to love during their stay.”
She currently serves as president of the Monarch Awards, and runs her own boutique marketing agency, Simple Mantra Marketing
