June Newsletter
Program Highlights
Los Angeles Field Day Fun with LA Galaxy!
Our just keep livin Los Angeles students enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon of energy, excitement, and connection at our Field Day, hosted in partnership with LA Galaxy! Held at the beautiful Dignity Health Sports Park, the event brought together students from various JKL programs across the city for a day focused on movement, wellness, and community.
Students rotated through five stations, one of which featured dynamic warm-ups and calisthenics led by Brendan Cosso from World Calisthenics Org. Other stations included fast-paced pickleball matches led by Pickleball Cares, spirited soccer games and kicking drills led by LA Galaxy Star Squad, and the always-entertaining water balloon toss, a favorite that brought tons of laughter and refreshing fun under the California sun.
Beyond the physical activities, the event provided a powerful opportunity for students to step outside their usual environments, meet new peers, and practice teamwork and sportsmanship. A huge thank-you to LA Galaxy for their incredible support and commitment to uplifting youth in our community. Their partnership helped create a truly vibrant, empowering, and joy-filled experience that our students will carry with them for a long time!
Honoring Our Educators
During Teacher Appreciation Week, the just keep livin Foundation’s Collegiate Baton Rouge program, along with several other JKL programs across the country, came together to honor the incredible educators and school staff who go above and beyond every day. These celebrations included wellness activities, heartfelt community support, and personalized tokens of appreciation to recognize their unwavering dedication and impact.
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to our amazing JKL instructors. Your passion, mentorship, and commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces for our students are the foundation of everything we do. You are the heart of these programs, and we appreciate you not just this week, but every single day!
Student Spotlight
Jayden, a member of the Stratford JKL program since 10th grade, is making his mark. Jayden has grown into a thoughtful and active student who is an excellent peer leader. After crossing the stage this fall, he’s headed to Nashville State to study business with the ultimate dream of opening his own sports bar-style restaurant. Through the JKL program, Jayden didn’t just gain fitness skills or healthy recipes—he found his community. He highlights fitness as his favorite pillar of the program, saying he loves staying active and learning exercises and habits he plans to carry forward. Monthly walks, rock climbing, and even upcoming horseback riding trips gave him a chance to explore new experiences and grow outside his comfort zone.
“If I ever had a son, I would want it to be Jayden. Sweet disposition; intelligent; polite; great attitude; always eager to help others”- Mr. Keith, JKL Instructor
Before JKL, Jayden described himself as an introvert. “This program helped me grow my social life,” he explained. The Gratitude Circle, a staple of the JKL experience, became a place where he felt safe and supported by his peers and teachers. “Mr. Keith helped me with trying new things and being more outgoing.”
Jayden’s experience is a significant part of his high school journey, filling his life with purpose, friendships, and confidence. We are proud of Jayden and know that his work ethic and passion will take him far!
WISE Scholarship Program: Meet Fabian
This month, we would like you to meet Fabian, a standout sophomore whose energy and dedication are already making waves on and off campus. From the gym to the animal shelter, Fabian brings passion, discipline, and heart to everything he does.
Fitness is a major part of Fabian’s life. Whether it’s boxing, lifting weights, staying active, or learning about health and wellness, he’s all in. He never misses an opportunity to try something new and stay active. For him, working out is about feeling strong, staying focused, and pushing yourself to be better. His dedication to fitness has even inspired him to think long-term: Fabian is considering opening his own business someday, possibly one that combines his passion for health and a desire to help others.
But Fabian’s drive doesn’t stop at the gym. He’s also deeply committed to giving back to the community. Almost every week, he volunteers at a local animal shelter where he walks dogs, cleans their kennels, and spends quality time with animals who are waiting for their forever homes. “Just sitting with them or giving them a little extra attention is a lot of fun,” says Fabian.
Fabian’s strong sense of purpose, paired with his kindness and work ethic, set a powerful example for his peers. Whether he’s helping animals in need or setting personal goals for his future, Fabian is proving that you’re never too young to make an impact.
Keep an eye on Fabian—he’s just getting started!
Camila’s Corner: Burger Bites
Warning: These burger bites disappear fast. Grill ‘em, stack ‘em, snack ‘em—repeat all summer long! Full recipe here!
JKL Swag of the Month: Flyin’ High Frisbee!
Soak up the sun and let it fly! The JKL Frisbee will be your ultimate summer sidekick! Click here to purchase!
