For the past seven years, families with the Seattle chapter of Jack and Jill of America have volunteered with Vision House on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a federal holiday often recognized as a “day on, not a day off.” The holiday was first observed in 1986, although the day of service has been coordinated nationally by AmeriCorps since 1994.

"Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” ― Martin Luther King, Jr.

Jack and Jill of America, Inc., is a national organization of mothers dedicated to nurturing future African-American leaders.

The organization offers community service opportunities for children as young as two and up to adulthood. This year, Jack and Jill volunteer kids, along with many of their parents, assisted Vision House with sorting items for families, addressing mail, and making blankets and gifts for families.

Jack and Jill volunteers helped us hand address envelopes and personalize thank you cards to our donors. They also made blankets and decorated mason jars. Warm blankets are always in high demand, especially for those we serve through the Diversion Center. And the mason jars were filled with water and flowers and delivered to residents as we encourage them on their journey towards permanent housing. 

The older kids also helped us sort through household goods in Vision House garages.

"When families move in, our apartments are completely furnished. Many families arrive with very little, and when they eventually move out, they’re able to take everything with them. Additionally, when residents are current on their rent, they can select a few pantry items to supplement their needs at home. Staying at Vision House isn’t free. Families do pay some rent. This enables them to rebuild their rental history and credit" --Debbie Gannon, Vision House Communications Specialist.

The Seattle chapter’s involvement with Vision House reaches back more than a decade. Over the years, youth in the organization have built Christmas wreaths, made Valentine’s Day cards for residents, sanitized toys in Children’s Village Child Care, and cleaned and raked the playground. They have also sold Double Good Popcorn and hosted a formal dance, which raised funds for our work to break the cycle of family homelessness.

“We’re grateful for the kindness and generosity of Jack and Jill families,” said Debbie. “Their commitment to Vision House and the families we serve is an exemplar of faithfulness, service, and leadership.”