November Newsletter
Give Back in Honor of Matthew’s Birthday
This November, in celebration of Matthew McConaughey’s birthday, we invite our JKL community to give back in a meaningful way. In honor of his commitment to youth empowerment and JKL, we’ve curated a list of donation items that directly support our students, alumni, and program initiatives. Your generosity makes a lasting impact – and what better way to celebrate than by giving other the tools to live their best lives?
Program Highlights
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at L.G. Pinkston High School!
We’re thrilled to announce the grand opening of a brand-new pickleball court at L.G. Pinkston High School! This special project, made possible through a partnership with Just Courts, will serve our just keep livin Foundation students and program in Dallas.
We are deeply grateful to the incredible team at Just Courts for their generous donation and for helping create an exciting new space where our students can stay active, connect with one another, and discover the fun of pickleball.
A big shout-out to Anthony McGee for all of his hard work and support behind the scenes in helping make this community event a reality!
Student Spotlight
Anthonez first encountered the Stratford JKL program in 8th grade when he joined his older brother Santino, who was already part of JKL, on a field trip to see a Nashville SC match. There was an extra ticket available, and this was Anthonez’s first time attending a soccer game. He was captivated by the energy of the fans and the skill of the players, and this experience inspired him to join JKL on the first day of his freshman year the following fall.
Now, after three years in the Stratford JKL program, Anthonez has become one of its most dedicated student leaders. “I’m so thankful to have a program like this,” he says. “I truly appreciate the opportunities I have gained through my participation.” Some of his favorite experiences include the Annual 5-Mile Walk event, participating in community service activities, enjoying healthy snacks at each session, and hearing from guest speakers. The most recent speaker, Nurse Shannon, had a significant impact on him, helping him realize that he had taken his health for granted. She discussed indicators of high blood pressure, including the foods and ingredients that can raise or lower it. “Anthonez is extremely helpful, always sticking around to ensure everything is done before he leaves. He is hard-working, dedicated, and the kind of spirit you hope to find in a JKL student,” says Mr. Keith, JKL instructor. Students like Anthonez take full advantage of what JKL has to offer and exemplifies how beneficial a program like JKL can be.
WISE Scholarship Program Update
The JKL WISE Scholarship Program celebrated the beginning of a new school year with a fun-filled Ice Cream Social! Parents, students, and staff came together to enjoy sweet treats, play games, and connect as a community. It was the perfect way to celebrate the start of another amazing year of growth, learning, and opportunity.
Camila’s Corner
Dark Chocolate Apple Bark
This apple bark is fall’s sweetest surprise! With layers of crisp apples, salty pretzels, and rich dark chocolate, this easy, irresistible treat delivers the perfect mix of crunch, sweetness, and a little seasonal magic.
Click here for the full recipe!
JKL Swag of the Month:
The goldilocks of hoodies – this new version of the alright hoodie is made of oh-so-soft 80/10/10 cotton/poly/recycled poly from plastic bottles and is not too heavy and not too thin. Screenprinted with just keep livin and Pops on the front chest and the iconic alright alright alright down the sleeve in light blue. Additional features include a 3 panel lined hood, cotton spandex cuffs and waistband and pouch pocket for — you know — whatever you want to stash.
Click here to purchase!