back

July Newsletter

JKL 2026 National Teacher Training!

This past June, something special happened in Los Angeles. Over 100 JKL instructors from across the country came together for our annual National Teacher Training!

This year’s theme, Back to the Basics, was an intentional reminder of why we do what we do. Amid the growth and expanding footprint of JKL, we took a step back to reconnect with the heart of our mission and the students we show up for every single day. Over two and a half powerful days, that spirit was felt in every session and every shared moment.

Throughout the training, JKL’s four core pillars – fitness, nutrition, community service, and wellness – served as our compass. A hands-on nutrition demonstration taught instructors how to make healthy, cost-efficient protein-packed granola bars. Wellness took center stage with a powerful session led by Ross Szabo, Wellness Director from the Geffen Academy at UCLA, along with a restorative sound bath focused on meditation and breathwork. Instructors got moving with an energizing Capoeira session, and a breathtaking hike at Kenneth Hahn State Park to Stoneview Nature Center that had 360-degree views of Los Angeles that left everyone speechless. We were also excited to introduce two new partnerships that will play a significant role in the 2026-2027 program year – MDRC, who will work alongside us to strengthen JKL’s data infrastructure and long-term evaluation capacity, and Find Your Grind, whose platform will expand workforce development and career readiness opportunities for JKL students nationwide.

Each day closed with a group gratitude circle. A simple but powerful tradition that keeps us grounded in what matters most. What made this year’s training truly special, though, was the people. Old faces reuniting like no time had passed. New faces welcomed with open arms. Over 100 like-minded individuals from different cities and schools, all gathered for the same purpose, the same mission, and the same values. That’s the JKL family, and moments like these remind us exactly why we do this work.

Get ready for what’s to come in the 2026-2027 program year!

Student Spotlight: Daisy Armendariz – 12th Grade, Sam Houston High School – 3rd Year JKL Student

Daisy has been a part of the JKL program since the beginning of her sophomore year and has been a valued member ever since. While she tends to be quiet in the classroom, JKL has given her a space where her personality truly shines. Whether participating in activities, working with her peers, or taking on new challenges, Daisy consistently brings enthusiasm and a positive attitude to the program.

At the start of this school year, Daisy was unsure about her plans after high school and whether college was the right path for her. Through JKL’s goal-setting activities and ongoing support, she began exploring her options and building confidence in her future. Over time, she challenged herself to apply to five different colleges and carefully considered each opportunity.

We are excited to share that Daisy has chosen to attend the University of North Texas after graduation. Her journey is a wonderful example of how setting goals, staying open to possibilities, and believing in yourself can lead to meaningful opportunities. We are incredible proud of Daisy and look forward to seeing all that she accomplishes in this next chapter!

USC Campus Tour with Mentor for Change

On June 20, 2026, four of our Los Angeles JKL students – Agustin Estrada, Jacob Alderete, Amelie Linderman, and Fabian Estrada – had an experience they won’t soon forget. Thanks to our friends at Mentor for Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to unlocking the potential in every youth through career-based mentoring, college-access support, and social-emotional development, students were invited to take an exclusive campus tour at the University of Southern California.

It was a genuine, eye-opening look at what college could look like for them. Students received an in-depth overview of USC’s history, but more importantly, a thorough breakdown of the financial aid and application process.

From grants and scholarships specifically designed for Pell Grant-eligible students, to resources on food, housing, and financial support – our students walked away with real, tangible tools that make attending a university like USC not just a dream, but a realistic and attainable goal.

We are deeply grateful to Mentor for Change for creating this opportunity and for their continued commitment to unlocking the potential of Los Angeles’ youth. Too often, students from underserved communities ware led to believe that schools like USC are simply out of reach. Experiences like this one exist to challenge the narrative – because the support is out there, the grants exist, and our students deserve to know that their dream school is closer than they think.

Camila’s Corner: American Flag Cake

Summer is here and that means it’s time to celebrate America!

To get into the patriotic spirit of summer, we wanted to share with you the America Flag Cake. To keep the cake (at least a little bit) healthier, we suggest using an organic cake mix (or making one from scratch). Especially for the blue food coloring, try to use an organic liquid or gel food coloring. You can also make this cake gluten-free (like Camila does) and use an almond flour-based gluten-free cake mix!

Happy Fourth of July!

Full recipe HERE!

JKL Product of the Month: Just Keep Golfin Polo

Breathable comfort with a sleek fit – you can swing easy and look sharp from the first tee to the 19th hole. Made of 5 oz. recycled poly and spandex, it has a self-fabric collar and features a 3-button placket. Moisture wicking and anti-microbial; it will pair great with shorts or jeans.

Embroidered with the just keep livin logo on the front left crest and just keep golfin on the back yoke. Available in heather gray/white or heather royal/white stripes. Runs true to size. A large measures about 23.5” pit to pit.

Click HERE to purchase!