JFR Discussion Board
The Jackson Family Initiative
JACKSON FAMILY REUNION “OUR ROOTS RUN DEEP”
September 30, 2024
This is a great day, Jackson Family, to be a Jackson Descendant! I am thankful that God is still in the Blessing Business. On the heels of a wonderful 2024 Jackson Family Reunion I know everyone enjoyed, great minds are coming together with plans for the future of the Jackson Family. I am excited to be chosen as the Family Coordinator for an upcoming project that will enhance our ability to have our Family Gathering/Picnic on the Home Place of our ancestors, In Union Springs, Alabama, (Town Creek/Benny Jackson Farm). Below are the plans for the future and how you can assist in making this a reality.
THE FAMILY MEETING 9-26-2024
The special committee (which consists of several family members listed at the conclusion of this document) met on Thursday, September 26, 2024, to discuss providing a facility/building/structure for the family to enjoy on the Jackson Home Place so we do not have to try to find a place to congregate each time we meet as a family. We attempted this project almost 40 years ago, but the idea did not materialize. This committee has the same desire and is determined to finally get this done. Needless to say, I’m glad about it.
We had Cousins James Ray, Jr. and Danny Jackson, Jr. bring forth ideas for the building. It was evident that they both did their research. After much discussion, it was decided that the best option was to construct a 40 X 60 ft. pavilion with an enclosed bathroom and kitchen area. This will be an open area mostly for congregating. Cousin Danny Jr. has so graciously offered his expertise and resources by preparing the building site dirt work for the foundation for the installation of the pavilion. He will also provide the plumbing and necessities at cost to the family. That’s right. We are grateful for his donation and his willingness to volunteer his services. As a family, we will purchase the kit, hire someone to erect the building, and lay the cement for the foundation. Other family members will share their skills and talents to assist in making this happen. If later we want to enclose the structure, we can do so however this will be great for a new beginning. This project is estimated to cost approximately $35,000.00.
HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE IN THE FUNDING?
That is a good question and I am prepared to answer as much as possible. Seriously there could be a family member that volunteers to fund the total amount; however, there are ways we all can contribute in this endeavor. We discussed options where family members could donate certain amounts based on participation. For example, 35 individuals donate $1000.00 each or 70 donate $500.00 or 140 donate $250.00, etc. Family I know this sound like a lot of money, and it is to some I know. With everyone participating it can happen quickly - that is if you believe in the idea. We have to be the motivators and go getters to get these funds. Cousin Danny is saving us thousands of dollars with his contribution and oversight. Remember, many of our family members are in the fourth quarter of life and quite a few are in the third quarter so we must find ways to accommodate them (us). This will be a great tribute to those gone before us and not forgotten. Family, I’m begging with sincerity, let’s get it done and without ill feelings because we are One. “We Are Jacksons”.
Cousin Jerica Keeton Hamilton will be documenting all contributions and minutes regarding to this project. Lastly, time is of the essence; think about it, then “Let’s Do It”!!!
Those wanting to donate, we will address the many ways you can with our Family Treasurer, Arthur Jackson, Sr.
James Andrew “Skeet” Keeton
Kinkeeper and Chairperson of the Family Coordinating Committee
Committee Members:
Tommie Ellis – Reunion President Arthur “Jammie” Jackson, Jr. – Reunion Vice President
Jerica Keeton Hamilton – Reunion Secretary Arthur Jackson, Sr. – Reunion Treasurer
Dorothy Stephens Charlie Jackson, Jr.
Danny Jackson, Sr. Danny Jackson, Jr.
James Ray, Jr. Linda Crowther
Respectfully yours,
The Jackson Family Reunion Committee