Page 6 - Team Member Handbook Aug 2020.docx

ORGANIZATION’S HISTORY

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Jack and Jill Children’s Center, Inc. (formerly Jack and Jill Nursery), was founded by the Junior
League of Greater Fort Lauderdale, Inc. in 1942 to provide child care for children of working
mothers whose husbands were at war. As a profile of families changed to more single parent
households, more children in poverty, and fewer support systems for families, Jack and Jill
evolved into a community based organization with a community based Board of Directors.

For 60 years, Jack and Jill operated in its original location in Sailboat Bend. In May 2003, after a
two-year capital campaign, we moved into our current location. At the grand opening, the Board
of Directors dedicated Jack and Jill Children’s Center to Frances T. Payne, Executive Director
Emeritus, who has been the leader and driving force behind the Center since 1969.

From its earliest roots as a child care center, Jack and Jill has grown and now encompasses the
families and the community. Services include early education for infants, toddlers and
preschoolers in a state-of-the-art environment that not only provides a developmentally
appropriate program but one that fosters security, love, and a high sense of self-esteem. The
curriculum is play based, providing opportunities for children to learn social and cognitive skills
that prepare them for their entry into Kindergarten. Children receive a nutritious breakfast and
lunch plus an afternoon snack daily through a contract with the Florida Child Care Food
Program.

In addition, Jack and Jill provides services to strengthen and support the whole family including
a food pantry, clothing bank, emergency financial assistance, parenting education workshops
for families to gain new skills, on site speech, occupational, and physical therapy, and holiday
food and gifts for the families of enrolled children.

Jack and Jill Children’s Center is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of 25 elected and
4 appointed members. These outstanding individuals are community members dedicated to the
care of children and families served daily at the Center.