North Carolina State Chapter

North Carolina State Chapter Headquarters in Leland

President: Janyce Jackson Jones

Contact Information: janycejacksonjones@zaminobla.org

The North Carolina Chapter began as a grassroots effort among Black lesbians seeking a stronger support system in both metropolitan and rural areas. By partnering with ZAMI NOBLA’s national leadership, these women formalized a chapter that spans Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, Greensboro, and Fayetteville, offering in-person and virtual events to reach remote communities.

A core focus is statewide advocacy that shapes policy and public perception around aging in the LGBTQ+ community, with particular emphasis on the needs of Black lesbian women. Monthly cultural and social events—such as brunches, potlucks, and cultural outings—foster intergenerational connection, while health and wellness workshops conducted with ZAMI NOBLA address topics like holistic aging, mental health, and chronic disease management. The chapter also compiles resource directories of LGBTQ+-friendly businesses, housing options, and social services to help members navigate daily necessities.

Signature programs include Sister Circles, small group gatherings for open dialogue on aging, identity, and community, and a Community Outreach Initiative pairing isolated members with volunteers for check-ins and essential support.

Strategic community partnerships with LGBTQ+ organizations, HBCUs, and grassroots groups broaden the chapter’s reach and ensure meaningful resource-sharing. Collaborations with Black-owned and LGBTQ+-affirming healthcare providers guarantee respectful care for older lesbians, while alliances with social justice networks help address intersectional issues—advocating for policy changes and fostering an environment where older Black lesbians thrive.

Gather and Grow Potluck, Charlotte, NC, May 17, 2025

Janyce Jackson Jones
Board Chair

Janyce L. Jackson Jones is a founding member of ZAMI NOBLA (National Organization of Black Lesbians on Aging) North Carolina State Chapter and currently serves as President. She discovered her passion for art upon retiring to coastal North Carolina after 21 years of dedicated service to her church and social justice causes in Newark, New Jersey. Prior to retirement, Reverend Janyce served as the Co-Pastor of Newark’s Unity Fellowship Church, and helped to found Liberation in Truth UFC, also in Newark, serving for eight years as its Pastor and Executive Director of that church’s Liberation in Truth Social Justice Center. Reverend Janyce lives with her spouse, Valerie Jones, and their dog Buster. She volunteers at the local senior center and serves on the boards of the Frank Harr Foundation, SAGE Wilmington, and the local branch of the NAACP.

Sheila M. Crain
Treasurer

Sheila M. Crain is the treasurer,  and an active member of the North Carolina State Chapter Event Planning Team. She worked for over 30 years as a Custom Broker Agent submitting entries and declarations, classify goods using HTS and working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). 

Marilyn McClain
Member-At-Large

Marilyn McClain is a physical therapist, wellness advocate, and member of the
ZAMI NOBLA North Carolina Chapter Board. With more than 24 years of
experience as a physical therapist, she has dedicated her career to helping
others experience greater health, mobility, and well-being.

Marilyn is also the founder of Love Notes Sanctuary, a space rooted in healing,
connection, movement, and personal transformation. Her work reflects her belief
in the importance of creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and
empowered to live fully and authentically.

As a member of the ZAMI NOBLA NC Chapter Board, Marilyn is honored to
support the organization's commitment to building community, preserving our
stories, and nurturing the health and well-being of Black lesbians across
generations.