December Newsletter
Giving Tuesday – just keep givin
Join us this Giving Tuesday and help us turn ‘just keep livin’ into ‘just keep givin’. Each dollar empowers students to live healthier, happier lives.
With 43 programs across the country (and growing!) serving more than 3,000 students annually, your gift provides the support our students rely on every day.
Program Highlights
First-Time Experiences With Our IAMHS JKL Program:
JKL students from Innovation in Advertising & Media High School in Brookyln enjoyed a fun-filled fishing trip – an exciting first-time experience for many! While the fish managed to stay out of reach, the day was still a huge success. Students spent the afternoon laughing, learning, and soaking up the simple joy of being outdoors together. Sometimes it’s not about what you catch, but the memories you create – and this group reeled in plenty of those!
Student Spotlight
Meet Kenariah Veal from Collegiate Baton Rouge:
Transfer student Kenariah is halfway through her senior year and experiencing the Collegiate Baton Rouge (Louisiana) JKL program for the first time this semester. From day one, she felt an immediate connection with the program’s wellness, mental health, and community service offerings. Kenariah is already making her mark as a leader within the program and has been a great resource and encouragement for other students on campus to join.
Her leadership in JKL has inspired many students to get involved and prioritize their mental health. “I can honestly say this program has changed me, I’ve lost weight, I don’t drink soda anymore, and I really enjoy journaling, which helps my mental health“, she shared. Students like Kenariah, who transfer to a new school, can struggle to find their tribe. We are so glad our JKL instructor, Ms. Schenall, invited her to a JKL session, and she never turned back. Ms. Schenall shared, “Kenariah is a student who isn’t embarrassed or shy about her past struggles with mental health. Since joining the JKL program, she has now been inspiring students in and out of the program. She’s quickly become a leader in JKL, utilizing her relationships across campus to encourage others to join the JKL program,”.
After high school, Kenariah plans to join the Army to become an ammunition specialist. We’re so proud of her confidence, leadership, and vision for the future – and we’re cheering her on as she takes the next step in her journey!
WISE Scholarship Program
(insert pictures – WISE Gala 2025 1-3)
WISE Scholarship Program Influencers Dinner Highlight
This fall, our Senior Scholarship Administrator, one of our outstanding JKL WISE participants, Dalila, and our Program Manager, Danielle, attended the WISE Scholarship Program Influencers Dinner. The event brought together leaders, changemakers, and advocates dedicated to expanding educational and mentoring opportunities.
The night celebrated the power of collaboration and featured a special message from Matthew McConaughey, emphasizing the importance of investing in young people. One of the evening’s standout moments was Dalila’s presentation, where she shared how being a WISE Scholar has shaped her journey. She highlighted her volunteer work at the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Marine Mammal Care Center, showcasing the dedication and service that make her an exceptional representative of JKL and the WISE Scholarship Program.
Camila’s Corner: Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
The perfect holiday appetizer: warm, creamy goat cheese tucked inside sweet dates and wrapped in crispy bacon. Simple to make, impossible to resist!
Click here for the full recipe!
JKL Swag of the Month: Workin for a Livin
The original but better. As a nod to Melba Toast (Wooderson’s car in Dazed and Confused), we brought back the short sleeve mechanic shirt. This 65/35 poly/cotton button down shirt has a sewn on embroidered patch and JKL screen printed on the right bicep. Whether you are working on your ride or just hanging out, this is a classic that never goes out of style.
Click here to purchase!