NEWSLETTER
January Newsletter
Celebrating 2025 & Welcoming a Bright 2026
Cheers to 2026! As 2025 came to a close, we were reminded once again of how blessed we are to be part of a community rooted in compassion and shared purpose. We truly appreciate your continued support of our mission to empower high school students to lead active lives and make healthy choices for a better future.
As you know, our JKL students experience many meaningful “firsts” through our program, and this year was no exception. A few memorable experiences this year included a camping adventure to Joshua Tree National Park, a Mental Health Summit in partnership with the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a college campus tour at the University of Texas for our students from Uvalde, a Field Day with the L.A. Galaxy, a Pickleball Tournament with the Brees Dream Foundation and a Back-to-School shopping experience at Academy Sports + Outdoors.
Our Greenlights Grant Initiative (GGI) was also hugely impactful. In just two years, our efforts have helped generate a total of $16.5 million in funding for school safety and mental health grants.
This year, we’re proud to share that 99% of JKL participants graduated high school, 100% stayed in school, 95% exercised more, 94% made healthier nutritional choices, 94% participated in more community service, 90% showed more daily gratitude, 86% felt more confident, and 99% improved their behavior.
The power of gratitude is something we put a lot of focus on in our programs, and it’s important for you to know that we are grateful for YOU, and that the kids you’re impacting are grateful too!
Program Highlights
The Lost Bus Movie Screening in Los Angeles
On December 9th, 2025, the just keep livin Foundation brought together about 100 students from 10 different high schools across Los Angeles for a special movie outing at an AMC Theater in Marina Del Rey. Before the event even began, each school’s JKL program participated in a community service activation. Students wrote heartfelt letters of encouragement to a fellow JKL student who is currently battling cancer, as well as to a JKL instructor facing the same fight. The letters were filled with hope, support, and uplifting messages and will be delivered to remind them that the entire JKL family is standing behind them.
After completing the community service component, students headed to the theater for an afternoon designed to celebrate and uplift them. Thanks to the incredible generosity of WME talent agency, the group enjoyed a private screening of Matthew McConaughey’s The Lost Bus, along with complimentary popcorn, drinks, and candy for every attendee.
The lobby was alive with holiday cheer as students tried on festive headbands, fun sunglasses, and Santa hats, instantly putting everyone in the holiday spirit. They also gathered for a quick photo op to capture the fun. Another highlight of the day came from a generous donation by Converse, which allowed each student to pick out a brand-new pair of shoes, an unexpected surprise that they were thrilled about. Excitement continued with a raffle giveaway, where lucky winners took home additional prizes.
After the screening, the group came together for a gratitude circle, closing the day with reflection and connection, a core JKL tradition. Amelie, a student from Venice High School, expressed what many were feeling: “I’m extremely grateful for WME for all of the things that were provided. Most schools don’t get opportunities like this, and the movie was absolutely fantastic.” All in all, the event captured the true spirit of JKL, giving back, lifting one another up, and creating moments students will cherish long after the credits rolled.
Student Spotlight: Jemaryon
Jemaryon is the definition of a student who makes the most of every opportunity. At East Laurens High School in Georgia, he has created a truly enriching high school experience by actively engaging in campus leadership and community programs. In addition to being a dedicated JKL participant, Jemaryon serves as Student Council President, is a member of Teen Court, participates in the Dublin Youth City Council, and leads his school band as a Drum Major.
Through JKL, Jemaryon has learned the importance of prioritizing self-care and embracing gratitude. “The gratitude component of JKL is my favorite because it helps me appreciate the little things. Self-care through gratitude and physical movement has really helped me in the program,” he shares.
Students like Jemaryon bring energy, hope, and peer leadership to JKL programs. In his final semester, he looks forward to deepening connections and continuing to inspire others. “Jemaryon is a bright light in our school who works with all the committees for the school and the community,” says Ms. Hester. With plans to attend Florida A&M University (FAMU), Jemaryon is ready to take on the world – and we have no doubt he will achieve his dreams.
Camila’s Corner: Gluten Free Sweet Potato Sliders
Ring in the New Year with these Sweet Potato Sliders. An easy, gluten-free bite that feels festive and fun. Big flavor, minimal effort, and guaranteed to kick off the party right.
Click here for the full recipe!
WISE Scholarship Program Update: WISE Holiday Dinner
The WISE Scholarship Program recently hosted a special dinner celebrating our six WISE scholars and their families. Joined by members of the Steele Family Foundation and the WISE team, the evening was filled with accomplishments, reflection, and fun. Scholars reviewed their program requirements, reflected on their progress over the past year, and even enjoyed a creative activity making balloon animals!
This gathering provided a meaningful opportunity for parents to connect and celebrate their students’ hard work. We are excited to see this incredible cohort continue to grow and achieve their goals as they complete the winter semester—bringing them one step closer to earning a full scholarship to the college of their choice!
JKL Swag of the Month: Kool Beanz Alpine
Look KOOL on the slopes or just “noggin” around with our ALPINE cuff knit beanie.
100% acrylic with the just keep livin logo embroidered in gray on the front cuff.
Click here to purchase!