GMAC of Jack and Jill, Inc. Celebrate 102-Year-Old Annie Jewell Moore

In October 2019, the Greater Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter (GMAC) of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. teens launched a project to fulfill the dreams of older adults through the Second Wind Dreams organization. The organization strives to change perceptions of aging by helping seniors living in nursing home communities continue to dream.

In 2022, the teens meet Ms. Annie Jewell Moore, a 102-year-old resident of A.G. Rhodes, one of the first African Americans to study at the Fashion Academy in New York, graduating with honors. She was also one of the first African Americans to study at the L’Ecole Guerre-Lavigne, the fashion school at The Sorbonne in Paris. Ms. Moore owned a boutique in Detroit at the height of Motown. She served as a stylist for Vogue magazine in the ’60s. The Atlanta History Center will curate her fashion pieces, and GMAC teens will attend the opening exhibit.

GMAC’s Community Service Lead, Shannon Smith Hamilton, and Teen Community Service Chair, Shiloh Clayton, worked with GMAC teens. Jacks and Jills participated in the fashion show by wearing hip and beautiful outfits and brought clothing donations (i.e., pants, shirts, socks, etc.) to Solomon’s Temple in Ms. Moore’s honor. Korto Momolu from Project Runway surprised Ms. Moore with a personalized message. Ms. Moore was the guest of honor with family, friends and residents. Residents received a meal, and Ms. Moore received gifts.

To summarize this experience, it is best to share the words of our honoree: “I am at a loss for words. It was a beautiful and grand occasion that I will always remember. One of my greatest highlights was this beautiful surprise,” stated Ms. Moore.