Beatrice Clark Shelby, Executive Director

P.O. Box 1356
Marvell, AR 72366

Phone: (870) 829-3274
Fax: (870) 829-2282
Email

County Served: Phillips

Incorporated: 1978

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Jeanette Collins Jackson's first contact with BGACDC was in 1984 as a parent in its Home Start Program. She was a single African-American mother with two sons and three daughters. She did not drive an automobile, and was unemployed. Jeanette was struggling, but still made a commitment to volunteer with BGACDC's childcare program.

Recognizing her eagerness to better her situation and her willingness to learn new skills, BGACDC hired Jeanette in 1994. She has worked in various capacities over the past seven years, including Maternal Infant Health Outreach Worker, cook, and assistant to the Family Day Care Home Coordinator.

The work not only provided Jeanette with employment, but also with self-confidence and new skills. She learned to drive and type, and is now computer literate. In 2002, Jeanette became a homeowner thanks to help from BGACDC.

BGACDC has encouraged and watched Jeanette graduate from the welfare rolls and become a productive citizen. Ms. Shelby, executive director, said, "Mrs. Jackson possesses three recognizable traits that separate her from some that remain on public assistance today - the willingness to work, to do more than her share when necessary, and a strong desire to help others."

Jeanette explained her plans for the future: "I want to continue serving my fellow man by providing much-needed services in the Marvell area."