The Westchester County and Rockland-Orange Chapters of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated recently hosted a dynamic National Security Forum, highlighting the leadership, civic engagement, and community impact of their youth members.
The event featured inspiring messages from our young leaders, Westchester County Teen President (A. Morgan), Legislative Chair (A. Coaxum), and Rockland Teen Legislative Chair (M. Euoardo) on youth empowerment and civic responsibility. Rockland County Legislator Dr. Dana Stilley spoke on the power and presence of Black women in leadership, while Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins, the county’s first Black executive, lauded Jack and Jill’s role in shaping generations of Black leaders.
Keynote speaker Asha Castleberry-Hernandez, U.S. Army Major, former White House representative, and national security expert, offered insights on government operations and civic engagement, sparking engaging dialogue with teens and community members.
The forum included breakout leadership sessions for children from PreK through 12th grade, covering topics such as safety, national security, and civic responsibility. Despite challenging weather, 47 youth participants earned leadership credits for their active involvement. The day concluded with a celebratory dinner sponsored by Red Rabbit.
With 98 attendees, the event underscored the dedication of Jack and Jill youth to leadership, service, and civic engagement, signaling a bright and determined future for Black leadership.