ABOUT US
Black Women of Evanston is a dynamic community organization founded in 2016 by the visionary Annette Jeter Jean-Jacques. Upon her move to Evanston, IL, Annette recognized the importance of establishing connections with like-minded individuals in her new community. Fueled by her dedication to creating a nurturing and empowering network for Black women, she took the initiative to launch a Facebook group aimed at uniting local residents who shared her passions and values.
Since its inception, the group has experienced remarkable growth, boasting over 1,100 individuals and evolving into a vibrant community that serves as a beacon of empowerment, connection, and advocacy. Black Women of Evanston has become a cornerstone of support and solidarity for its members, providing a platform for collaboration, celebration, and meaningful engagement. As a hub for sharing resources, uplifting one another, and amplifying voices, BWoE continues to thrive and make a lasting impact on the lives of Black women in Evanston and beyond.
2017
2018
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Selfcare - Group fitness workout session at Swallow Cliff
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Fall Meet and Greet
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Afternoon Tea at the Drake Hotel
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BWoE Ladies Night
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Sunday Brunch Summer House Chicago
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Started as a Facebook group
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1st Event - Enjoyed dinner at a local restaurant
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Children of BWoE - Brown Babies of Evanston - Family meet and greet
2016
2023
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Community Service: Connections for the Homeless - Winter Warmth
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Cooked for the residents at Margarita Inn
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Mental Health Workshops (Checking on my Sista)
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Think Big Vision Board Party
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1st Annual Evanston En Blanc Event
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Community Service: Diaper Packaging for Bundled
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Valentine's Day Party for the Unhoused community
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Mental Health Walk
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Self-care Product Drive for Unhoused/Immigrants
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Checking on my Sista Series
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BWoE Ski Trip Weekend
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Spring Fitness Challenge
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Aid/CPR/AED certification classes
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BWoE Book Blub
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BWoE Bike Girl Magic
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BWoE Community Cookout
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Evanston en Blanc
2024
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Volunteered with Connections for the Gratitude for Groceries event
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Incorporated as NFP
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BWoE Family Snow Tubing - Franklin, IL
2022
2021
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Community Service : BWoE Friendsgiving and Service (Foster - The Giving Store)
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BWoE 1st Annual Photoshoot
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Participation in Juneteenth Parade
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Zoom Workshop Series:
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2nd Annual Gift Exchange (social distance)
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Social Distance Beach Day
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Virtual Online Cooking Demo
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Virtual Skin Care Routine
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Virtual Holiday Tablescape
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Virtual Holiday Charcuterie Board Lesson
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Virtual Holiday Makeup Tips
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Virtual Holiday Appetizers
2020
2019
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Northside and North suburb Meet and Greet - Five and Dime
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Family Bonfire and Smores
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Holiday Cocktails and 1st Annual Holiday Gift Exchange
HISTORY
BWoE is proud to provide a space where Black women can feel seen, heard, and supported as they navigate their mental health journeys. This vital service is being offered at no charge to the community.
Our workshops, aptly named "Checking on My Sista," are conducted bi-monthly by a licensed therapist who specializes in addressing the unique mental health needs of Black women.
During these workshops, participants have the chance to pour into themselves, share personal experiences, and gain access to valuable resources. These workshops serve as safe and nurturing spaces where Black women can come together, be authentically themselves, and engage in open discussions about mental health and well-being.
"Checking on My Sista" offers participants a valuable opportunity to prioritize self-care, explore their emotions, and connect. By fostering a culture of openness, understanding, and support, we aim to empower Black women to prioritize their mental well-being and seek the tools and knowledge necessary to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Black Women of Evanston has become a cornerstone of support and solidarity for its members, providing a platform for collaboration, celebration, and meaningful engagement. As a hub for sharing resources, uplifting one another, and amplifying voices, BWoE continues to thrive and make a lasting impact on the lives of Black women in Evanston and beyond.
