Archives: Newsletters

Student Spotlight: Janaya & Jada, Venice H.S., Los Angeles

Twin sisters, Janaya and Jada have been faithful JKL students at Venice H.S. since freshman year.

Both have been very active in pursuing their unique goals through the JKL online programming this year. Janaya was able to develop her cooking skills, incorporate new ingredients and create recipes from scratch. Jada found support for her weight loss journey by joining our world calisthenics and strong nation workouts.

Despite the positive experiences they both had with online JKL programming, attending school via zoom had its challenges. Luckily, the JKL monthly Mental Health Monday sessions helped these sisters navigate the semester.

As they approach their last year of high school, they are focused on their academics as they are both hoping to attend a Historical Black College University. “Jada and Janaya are superb and exemplary JKL students who work hard in their academic growth and endeavors. Their leadership and dedication is a pleasure to watch” – Joy (JKL instructor).

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JKL End of Year Celebrations!

The JKL New Visions program in New York hosted an awesome End of Year Celebration!

Mrs. Beyers, JKL instructor created a heart-warming presentation highlighting all of the amazing things the program has been able to accomplish throughout the school year, despite the extra challenges. Students received some fun awards like “Top Chef” for going above and beyond during nutrition demonstrations.

The group even created a collective board where each student could write things that they admire or like about the other JKL students. This was a much deserved celebration for our incredible students!

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UCLA Psychology Connects: Perspectives on Happiness

Our founder, Matthew McConaughey joined the UCLA department of Psychology alongside Kevin Love for a very special salon on the perspectives of happiness, the importance of setting meaningful goals and the ways in which mindfulness and gratitude can be used as a resource.

We are so grateful to Michelle Craske, co-director of the UCLA Depression Grand Challenge, for leading the conversation. As Kevin Love said, “action is what defines us” and we are so grateful to Kevin for taking an active role in fighting the stigma around mental health! We are proud to work with the Kevin Love Fund with our JKL students and his Mental Health initiatives and honored to have been a part of this discussion.

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K’s for a Cause to benefit just keep livin

Through Ks for a Cause, Trevor Bauer of the Los Angeles Dodgers provides financial support and highlights various local nonprofit organizations focused on STEM and/or youth programming in the greater Los Angeles area.

For every strikeout (K) during the regular season, Bauer will donate $1,000. Each month, a different nonprofit organization is designated. We are thrilled that just keep livin was chosen as the May beneficiary, receiving a total of $45,000 in donations! We are truly so grateful to Trevor and the entire Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation for choosing JKL!

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Rachel Miriam X Camila McConaughey: Just Keep Breathin’ Collection

Rachel Miriam partnered with Camila McConaughey to create a special Just Keep Breathin’ Collection.

Through this adorable collection of personalized essentials for meditation, mindfulness and gratitude, Rachel is generously donating a portion of the proceeds to just keep livin!

Check Out the Collection!

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Congrats to the JKL Graduates!

 
 
 
Adia Larzeia
attending Prairie View A & M University

 
 
 
Brittany Valenzuela
attending UCLA

 
 
 
Erin Crittenden
attending Texas Christian University on full ride scholarship

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Camila’s Tips: Mini Pepper Dippers

Ingredients
1.5-2 lbs. ground turkey (not lean ground turkey)
3 tbsp olive oil divided
4 jalapeño or serrano chili peppers, chopped remove seed and ribs if you want less heat
1 large onion diced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 lb. baby sweet peppers They are usually sold in 1lb bags – washed and split in half lengthwise, removing seeds and stem.

Directions
STEP 1
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped jalapeño or serrano peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let cool for 10 minutes.

STEP 2
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

STEP 3
In a mixing bowl. Add turkey, cumin, chili powder, cilantro, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and option cayenne.

Top the turkey and spices with the cooled onion and pepper mixtures.Combine the turkey, spices and cooked pepper and onion mixture together.

STEP 4
In a large low edge casserole dish, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to bottom.

Using a small spoon, fill each mini pepper half with the turkey seasoned mixture and placed into the greased casserole dish.

Move the pepper around the dish to evenly spread the olive oil. This will prevent the peppers from sticking to the casserole dish when baking.

Once your peppers are stuffed, place into the over for 30-45 minutes or until browned on top.

Remove from oven and serve with your favorite salsa or salad, or both.

Enjoy! Beijos
– Camila

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Swag of the Month

JKL Plastic Stadium Cups: Made in the USA, BPA free and recyclable.
Great for the beach, camping or just hanging out in your backyard.

Get Yours Today!

Student Spotlight: Hanna, JKL Student

Freshman JKL student, Hanna, like many other students across the country, started her high school experience entirely virtual. When she realized the COVID-19 pandemic was staying longer than anticipated and online learning would be her new norm, Hanna decided to join the New Visions JKL afterschool program.

She had the benefit of hearing many positive reviews from her cousin, a JKL alumni. It was the JKL program that helped launch Hanna into a fun weight loss journey! Since joining the program Hanna has lost 21 pounds through fun, high-energy dance classes and sweaty HIIT workouts.

Mental Health Mondays have been a highlight for Hanna getting through stressful school days and coping with being an only child at home. Hanna expressed, “Mental Health Mondays have encouraged me to keep my head up during the times I felt alone and provided me with calming breathing techniques for when I start overthinking.” After Hanna completes high school, she would like to obtain an engineering degree focused on coding while also pursuing an acting career.”

Hanna is a student who is full of wisdom and energy… No matter what is going on, she sees the positive and brings light to everything she is involved in. Hanna has been such a great asset to our JKL program,” says Ms. Byers. We look forward to seeing Hanna and the New Visions JKL program continue to thrive!

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Mack, Jack & McConaughey Fundraiser

Although the event may have looked slightly different this year, the Mack, Jack & McConaughey fundraiser was a huge success!

The first evening kicked off with an incredible performance by Parker McCollum. The next day included a golf tournament and fashion brunch with a beautiful performance by Jessi Alexander where she sang a few of her #1 hits!

We are beyond grateful to Miranda Lambert, Jon Randall and Jack Ingram for their raw performance of The Marfa Tapes! Huge thanks to our sponsors and donors who continuously show up to support the amazing organizations who benefit from this event; CureDuchenne, Dell Children’s Medical Center, HeartGift, The Rise School and just keep livin Foundation. Our hearts are full of gratitude with the fantastic turnout!

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American Airlines Career Panel

A huge thank you to our amazing partners at American Airlines for hosting a career panel for our JKL students and staff in April!

We are so grateful to each of our guest speakers for taking the time to allow our students to interact with members of the AA team from a variety of positions to learn about the different career opportunities within the airlines industry and what it takes to be successful in the world of work in general.

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The Ultimate Self-Care Workshop

Our JKL program in West Charlotte partnered with McCrorey YMCA to deliver gift boxes to their JKL students filled with fitness equipment and self-care items!

The group met together via zoom to discuss how to take care of themselves physically, emotionally, and mentally! It was a day full of smiles, helpful tips, and happy students!

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What Are You Grateful For?

Hear from our just keep livin students…

“I am grateful for JKL, this workout, the roof over my head, my family, everything I have in my life because it’s there for a reason.”
– Chrystal, JKL Student

“I am thankful for my Mom because she has put me through high school and because it has been tough but I am graduating this year!”
– Jennifer, JKL Student

“I am grateful to be back in person with my kiddos.”
– Coach Nasarra, JKL Instructor

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Camila’s Tips: Camila’s Yuca Fries

Ingredients
1-2 whole yucas
Oil for frying (avocado or another high heat oil)
Sea Salt

Directions
1. Place a large pot on stove, fill with water up to 3 inches from the top and begin to bring water to a boil.
2. Remove ends of yucca. Cut yuca into 4” long pieces and remove the skin. (See video for tip on removing skin)
3. Place whole 4” peeled pieces into boiling water and cook until tender, approximately 25–30 minutes.
With a slotted spoon, remove the cooked yucca from water, let cool slightly and slice lengthwise to give you your “fries”. Sometimes you will find thicker stringy root that runs in the middle of the yuca, remove it when slicing, discard.
4. Bring your oil to frying temperate and gently place each fry into the oil.

*Beginners tip: to know if you oil is hot enough place a small piece of yucca into oil to see if it starts bubbling in oil. Or another way is using the base of the handle of a wooden spoon and placing that in the oil and bubbles will start to form around the wood.

5. After about a minute, gently turn the yuca fries in the oil to get golden brown.
6. Remove the fries and drain on a paper towel. While still hot, sprinkle fries with sea salt to taste.
7. Fries can be served with ketchup or as I like it, hot sauce!

*Alternately, the Yuca can also be boiled, drained, and then topped with a little butter or your favorite topping that you would use for a baked potato.

Me personally, I make a batch of the boiled yuca and keep in fridge for the week. It makes a great satisfying snack.

Enjoy! Beijos
– Camila

Full Recipe on Women of Today »

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Swag of the Month

Limited Edition JKL Texas Relief Fund Custom Guitar T-shirt and Hat

Get Yourself a T-shirt!

Get Yourself a Hat Too!

Student Spotlight: Jordan Moore: Manual Arts JKL Program, Los Angeles

Like many programs, due to COVID, JKL has had to pivot and offer our weekly programming online in a creative way!

For some students zoom fatigue has become a reality while others are making it a priority to utilize online resources. Jordan from Manual Arts High School is one of the JKL student’s taking advantage of our weekly resources and online programming. Jordan explains, “The JKL program has helped me become more confident in dealing with situations that I struggled with. Mental Health Mondays has really allowed me to use the tools that our taught to deal with my stress”.

During the pandemic, Jordan has acquired some newly found cooking skills and has decided to eat more vegetables while removing soda and candy from his diet. We are so proud of Jordan and we love watching him achieve his goals. Jordan is Senior and may not get to experience another in-person JKL session, but he is forever grateful for the nutrition knowledge, community service events and guest speakers that have given him such great perspectives on life.

“Jordan is a young man who will be successful in the future because of the confidence he has and his ability to always think in a positive way” says Mr. Simpson, JKL instructor. Next Fall, Jordan will be enrolled in a California based college studying graphic design!

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We’re Texas Virtual Benefit Concert

In response to the current devastation caused by the Texas Winter Storm, the just keep livin Foundation has set up a just keep livin Texas Relief Fund.

On March 21st, Camila and Matthew hosted the We’re Texas Virtual Benefit Concert for the just keep livin Texas Relief Fund to support the critical short-term, mid-term and long-term needs of those impacted by Texas Winter Storm Uri. The event will continue to stream on Matthew’s YouTube channel through April 20th 2021.

Here are some ways you can still donate to the just keep livin Texas Relief Fund:

1. Donate.
2. Text-to-Give: Text TEXAS to 20222 to donate $10 at any time throughout the remainder of 2021.
3. Purchase a Limited Edition JKL Texas Relief Fund Custom Guitar T-shirt. 100% of the profits will go to the just keep livin Texas Relief Fund.

View the “We’re Texas” Virtual Benefit Concert, streaming on Matthew’s YouTube channel until April 20th, 2021, and click the donate button to contribute.

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Anacostia hosts guest speaker Lawrence Sidbury Jr.

NFL Veteran, philanthropist, and founder of the Zero Limitations Foundation, Lawrence Sidbury Jr., spoke to 50 of our just keep livin students at Anacostia High School.

Mr. Sidbury shared about his time in the NFL and life after retirement from the league in 2018. He now owns his own trucking business and started the Zero Limitations Foundation. He reminded the kid to “Know No Limits” and follow their dreams. His mom is an Anacostia alumni and the students were truly so excited and grateful to hear from another dynamic speaker!

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What Are You Grateful For?

Hear from our just keep livin students…

“I am grateful for my decision to eat healthier and for meeting new friends in JKL.”
– Ashley, Sunset HS, Dallas

“I am grateful to start JKL this week I am excited to see where this journey will take me, and I can’t wait to be back on campus.”
– Destiny, Fairfax HS, Los Angeles

“I am grateful for JKL for always providing insightful and thought provoking sessions.”
– Cam, Venice HS, Los Angeles

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Camila’s Tips: Fruity Rolls

Serving clean snacks to your kids does not need to be hard!

I really try to avoid serving my kids processed foods whenever possible … This recipe a great snack that I make for them, that I can feel good about. These fruit rolls are so easy to do, and I put chia seeds in the recipe to add in some additional nutrition and protein. Have fun with this recipe! It works with a lot of different fruits, I just happen to love mango!

Ingredients
2 ¼ cup diced Mango (or preferred fruit)
1tsp chia seeds ( adds omega 3’s and fiber and a little protein)

Directions
In a blender or food processor make a smooth paste with the mango.

Add in the teaspoon of Chia Seeds Spread mixture thin and even onto a silpat or parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Place in a 175* oven for 2-3 hours. Watch it carefully and look for a slightly dry surface with just browning edges. Once cooled cut off edges to get an even rectangle and cut into long one inch wide strips and roll!

Enjoy! Beijos
– Camila

Full recipe on Women of Today »

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Swag of the Month

Limited Edition JKL Texas Relief Fund Custom Guitar T-shirt and Hat – Grab your limited edition t-shirt or hat! 100% of the profits will go towards the just keep livin Texas Relief Fund to help support those impacted by Texas Winter Storm Uri.

Get Yours Now!

Student Spotlight: Riley Branum, East Laurens High School, GA

 

Freshman JKL student, Riley Branum is a jocular and fearless leader who exudes positive energy and dedication.

Riley was fortunate enough to attend 1 of 2 high school campuses that offered JKL programming in hybrid format last fall! Once Riley learned about the elements of the JKL program, especially community service and gratitude, she was all in! Riley explained, “It’s nice to know we give back to our community, it is something I have been doing for long time and it’s very important to me”.

Upon entering high school, Riley had a lot of issues with anxiety and self-doubt. Riley has found a safe haven in the JKL program where she can share her creative passions and become a peer leader. “Riley loves deeply and cares for everyone. She is a great friend to others and is always there when needed. I am very proud of the young lady she is becoming”, said Ms. Hester.
The East Laurens JKL program just completed its first semester and has already made some successful strides. There was strong student engagement during a campus beautification project and a great mentoring collaboration with their local elementary school. First year programs with awesome students is a recipe for success!

We look forward to seeing Riley and the East Laurens JKL program thrive this semester.

 

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JKL Students Connect with Nashville Predators Hockey Players

 

Students from JKL programs at Antioch and Maplewood high schools in Nashville recently had the opportunity to connect with two professional hockey players from their hometown Predators, Colton Sissons and Nick Cousins.

The players shared their goals for 2021 with students, which included staying healthy and of course winning the Stanley Cup! They also shared encouraging advice such as the importance of not letting yourself get too high or too low, showing up with a smile, and not being afraid to think big.

They talked with students about nutrition (both players have stepped up their home cooking game during the pandemic), exercise (Cousins shared that it makes him feel accomplished and release stress), and mental health (both enjoy taking walks outside to clear their head). We ended the Q&A session with a virtual Gratitude Circle, in which Sissons said he was grateful to teachers, which was especially poignant since we had our JKL Nashville teachers present as well!

We’re so grateful to the Predators for making time for this special treat for our students, especially considering their first game of the season is just days away.

 

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JKL Students Inspired by Microsoft’s Women in Technology Career Panel

 

 

JKL students got the chance to participate in a private “Women in Technology” Career Panel put on especially for them courtesy of Microsoft.

Students really enjoyed this special opportunity to hear and connect with each panelist (executives from several different sectors of the company) as they shared their unique career journeys leading to Microsoft. Students had the chance to hear about the women’s backstories as well as participate in a Q&A session.

There were some key words of wisdom shared at the event such as, “The sky is not the limit, it is the view,” “You’ll miss 100 % of the shots that you don’t take,” and “Know your worth.” Sidney, JKL student from Carver High School said, “I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to hear from such powerful women in technology tonight. I wanted to thank you for such wonderful inspiration!” Microsoft even followed up the session by providing our students with free links to their Computer Science Education Week Workshops including sessions on coding and gaming.

We’re grateful we could provide our students with such a unique and practical opportunity thanks to Microsoft!

 

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JKL Student Wins Prestigious College Scholarship

 

 

Shia Wade, a JKL Senior at Venice High School, was recently awarded a full college scholarship to Hobart & William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York, from the Posse Foundation!

This respected organization finds students who might be missed by the traditional admissions criteria at highly selective schools but who can excel on campus. This year, over 2,300 of Posse Los Angeles’s finest youth leaders were nominated for Posse Scholarships and only a small group of students were chosen as Finalists.

We’re thrilled for Shia, who, as a Posse Foundation Scholar, will also receive pre-collegiate training – workshops that help Scholars develop as leaders before they matriculate at college. She plans on majoring in Writing. We’re so proud of Shia for sticking with the 4 month interview process!

 

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Camila’s Tips: Crispy Zucchini Fries

 

 

Thought guilt-free fries were a myth? Skip the greasy fingers but get all the satisfaction with these oil-free low carb crispy zucchini fries. These fries by Every Last Bite are a snacking dream! Crunchy on the outside and deliciously warm and soft in the middle, you would never guess these zucchini fries are healthy! Put away the sugary ketchup and serve these zucchini fries with a deliciously fresh garlic and herb dipping sauce which is rich in protein and calcium.

Ingredients:
FOR THE FRIES:
• 2 large zucchini
• 1 tbsp gluten free flour
• pinch of salt and pepper
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp skim milk (or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup gluten free bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp mixed herbs

FOR THE DIP:
• 1/3 cup nonfat Greek Yogurt
• 1/2 clove garlic
• 1 tbsp chopped chives
• 1 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Farenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash the zucchini and cut in slices approximately 1/2 an inch in thickness. Place the zucchini sticks in a Ziploc bag along with the flour, salt and pepper. Seal the bag and shake well until all sides of the zucchini sticks are lightly coated in flour. In a bowl whisk together the egg and milk. In another bowl mix together the breadcrumbs, parmesan, herbs and spices. Working in batches of 2sticks at a time, dip the zucchini in the egg and then dredge in the dry mixture so that all sides are well coated and then place on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining zucchini sticks. Bake the zucchini in the oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they are evenly crisp and golden. Stir together all of the ingredient for the dipping sauce and serve alongside the warm zucchini fries.

Enjoy! Beijos
– Camila

Full recipe on Women of Today »

 

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Swag of the Month: JKL Zip Up Hoodies

New JKL full zip hoodies! To zip or not to zip . . . either way this full zip sweatshirt is perfect when you needed that extra layer and a jacket is too much.

Get Yours Now!

 

Dear Friends,

It is once again the time of year when we reflect on the work the just keep livin Foundation has done, the impact we have made and the goals we have for the upcoming year. It goes without saying that 2020 was a year unlike any other, and like all of you, we have worked hard to adapt and pivot. We are proud of the ways we have continued to serve our students and teachers throughout the country during a time when they’ve needed us more than ever.

We do not do this work alone. Led by our Foundation Staff, Board of Directors and Advisory Board, and our incredible teachers, and supported by our corporate partners and individual donors, we were able to serve 3,000 high school students at 39 programs in 13 cities this year. As we come to the end of 2020, we wanted to thank you for your continued support of our mission of empowering high school students to lead active lives and make healthy choices for a better future.

When COVID-19 first led to school closures back in March, we began fundraising to address two urgent community needs: meals and access to technology. Working with organizations such as Green Dot Public Schools, LAUSD, Boys & Girls Club and No Kid Hungry, and thanks to generous donations from our supporters, we were able to raise $300,000 to provide 35,000 meals and 700 computers to students in need.

As the pandemic has continued, we have been able to develop effective communication strategies to stay connected with our students and to continue to provide them with the programming and support they need. We’ve held online yoga sessions, calisthenics workouts, healthy recipe demonstration videos, and hosted virtual guest speakers who have inspired and encouraged our students as well as provided them with the tools they need to nurture their mental health. Through it all, our students have continued to give back to their communities in safe ways, such as participating in virtual voter registration drives and writing notes of encouragement to essential workers.

We thank you for your dedication and passion for what we do to help make all of this possible. Cheers to a brighter and healthier 2021 for us all.

just keep livin,

Camila and Matthew McConaughey

 

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Student Spotlight: Perla, Fremont High School

 

Perla graduated from Fremont High School in 2017. In addition to being a member of just keep livin program, Perla also was a letterwinner in soccer, volleyball and track.

Currently she is attending University of Nebraska at Kearney. (UNK) where she is a Junior majoring in Sociology and playing soccer. Prior to transferring to UNK, Perla attended East Los Angeles College for two years where she helped the Huskies win eight games and tie 11 others over the 2018-2019 season for soccer.

Perla was twice named All-South Coast Conference North Division and the the SCC North Division in goals (18) in 2018.

 

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John Adams Gives Back During the Holidays

The JKL program at John Adams College and Career donated food to families in need for Thanksgiving.

Families received baskets with food to prepare for the holidays and could pick a ham or turkey to add to their basket. In addition, on that Wednesday, the program also purchased hot food for two families of JACCA students who needed help for Thanksgiving.

The two families received chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy, and a cookie tray for dessert. They did not know they were receiving anything and it was wonderful to see the smiles it brought and to hear how grateful they were that the JKL program thought of them during the holidays.

 

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Waboba Helps “Keep Life Fun” for JKL Students

 

 

JKL Students at Longview High School in Texas and East Laurens High School in Georgia recently received special deliveries that certainly helped them “keep life fun,” which is the mission of Waboba, a Swedish company committed to creating unique, fun products that change the way you play.

They gifted our students at these two schools (our only JKL programs that, due to local and school regulations, are allowed to meet in-person) with items including their famous “Moon Balls,” Moon Cracket Set, LED Flyers, and more.

Waboba’s mission is backed by a team of researchers that has determined that children and adults should play at least once a day to experience an improvement in mood and general well-being. Now that’s a philosophy we can get behind! Our students had a blast trying out their new gear, and working up a sweat at the same time! Thank you Waboba for your generous donation!

Athletes That Care Donates Backpacks to JKL Students

 

 

Students in our JKL program at Longview High School in Texas were thrilled to receive brand new backpacks thanks to a generous donation from the Athletes That Care group out of Diana, Texas.

Athletes That Care is a small service organization based at New Diana High School. It was formed a few years ago by some students with a very determined mother at their side to support their efforts. Mrs. Lori James (mother/leader) and her daughter LiAnn James, a junior at New Diana High, were kind enough to share their hard work and dedication with our JKL kids.

This organization was started with the goal of helping foster kids and underprivileged kids with basic needs and they are now they are reaching out to area schools seeking to support any kid in need. They’ve distributed over 1,000 new bags so far, and we are honored to partner with them!

 
 

 

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Camila’s Tips: Brazilian Rice

 

 

Ingredients:
5 cups rice (cooked according to package directions)
1 tbsp butter
1 cup carrots (diced)
1 cup golden raisins (chopped)
1 cup dried plums (or to taste) (chopped)
1 cup chopped green apple (diced)
Olive oil and salt (as needed)
1/2 onion, chopped
1 15oz can diced tomatoes(drained)
1 cup ham (chopped)
1 cup frozen peas (room temperature)
1 15oz can hearts of palm (drained and chopped)
1/2 cup green olives (sliced)
2 cups mozzarella (shredded)

Directions:
1. Cook rice according to package directions.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
3. Melt butter in a stockpot. Add carrots, raisins, plums and apple. Cook over medium heat until mixture is golden brown and begins to soften.
4. In a large sauté pan, place a little oil, and the onion and 3 generous pinches of salt. Cook until translucent. Add tomatoes, ham, peas, hearts of palm, and olives. Sauté for a few minutes and season to taste.
5. In a baking dish, place a layer of rice, then half the fruit mixture, then half of the ham mixture on top. Continue layering, finishing with the rice, and topping with cheese.
6. Bake until cheese melts and serve.

Enjoy! Beijos
– Camila

 

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Swag of the Month: JKL Beanie

A great home for your dome. Pairs well with the camo sweatshirt!

Get Yours Now!

 

Student Spotlight: Kamari, Ballou H.S | Washington D.C.

 

Remote learning has created a barrier for student participation in many classrooms and programs around the world. Luckily, we have been able to pivot and reach some resilient students who are eager to log back on to the computer after countless school day zoom meetings. Kamari, from our Ballou JKL program, is one of those students!

Since we have launched online programming this Fall, Kamari has had 100% participation. Sessions with Officer Ryan Tillman, Vote.org, Monthly Calisthenics workouts and a high energy interview with WWE superstar R-Truth were some of his favorite JKL sessions so far. During Covid, Kamari has missed being in person for JKL programming and band practice, but that didn’t stop him from getting creative.

Kamari started cooking healthier meals, participating in weekly drum pad practice sessions with friends via zoom and recently got inspired to start jogging with his mother after hearing about our JKL Fall Virtual 5k. Kamari is dedicated to keeping up his school work and JKL sessions for the year and is looking forward to laughing and having fun with friends soon! Once things settle, Kamari would like to take a trip to North Carolina to see his family. We appreciate Kamari’s engagement level and dedication to the JKL program and look forward to seeing him in person in the near future.

 

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Wishing a very Happy Birthday to our inspiring founder, Matthew McConaughey.

Make sure to grab your copy of his #1 New York Times and #1 USA Today best seller, Greenlights!

 

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WWE Superstar R-TRUTH Shares His Truth with JKL Students

 

 

just keep livin students and staff tuned in for a very special virtual visit from famed WWE Superstar, R-Truth.

Having been wrestling for over 20 years, R-Truth really opened up to JKL students, sharing his personal story – from his humble beginnings heading down a dangerous path that included jail time for selling drugs, to finding enduring success as a wrestler at the WWE, where he is the current 24/7 Champion in his record 42nd reign.

We had over 100 students and staff join the conversation, some of them even proudly showing off their own R-Truth action figures! They were treated to countless words of wisdom, such as “I had to be my own cheerleader,” “we can move mountains as individuals,” and “your voice is the most important thing you have.” From being a devoted father, to rapping, to his surprising hobby of flying kites, R-Truth seems to do it all.

He emphasized the importance of voting, gave students advice on how to pursue their dreams, and credited his faith and belief in himself for his longevity. When asked about the importance of setting goals, he said “Setting goals gives you ambition. It’s like the dynamite stick you light. You have to plan something before you can execute.” We want to sincerely thank R-Truth, as well as the WWE who sponsors our JKL program at Learning Works Charter, for giving our students this terrific opportunity!

 

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The Kevin Love Fund Donates Masks to jkl Students in Partnership With “Cover or Covid”

 

 

The Kevin Love Fund, through their community partner organization, Cover or Covid, generously provided 2500 masks to just keep livin students in Cleveland to help keep them safe amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

We were thrilled to receive these high-quality, comfortable masks to distribute to our students at John Adams and Glenville high schools along with their families. Our John Adams students in particular found that these masks came in handy when they volunteered their time packaging Halloween treat bags to distribute to children in need at the Earl B. Turner Community Center.

We love the circle of giving that this mask donation was able to facilitate! The Kevin Love Fund, which generously sponsors one of our just keep livin afterschool programs in Cleveland, has a mission to inspire people to live their healthiest lives while providing the tools to achieve physical and emotional well-being. They recently partnered with the local nonprofit, Cover of Covid, which works to ensure the availability of excellent quality, reusable cloth masks to those in need. We’re so grateful to have been selected as the beneficiary of this mask donation and we look forward to continuing to work with both organizations in the future!

 

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Ryan Tillman | Breaking Barriers United

 

 

We wanted to highlight one of our recent just keep livin guest speakers, Police Officer, Ryan Tillman @breaking_barriers_united!

Ryan is such an incredible motivational speaker and he inspired hope through his messaging that despite his own mindset about the police as a child, he now speaks out against police brutality and is actively helping to change and improve the system. His acknowledgment of imperfection and humility being the first steps to success really resonated with our students.

Ryan also touched base on Matthew’s monthly quote for October, “Don’t Leave Crumbs.” As Ryan grew up in life, he shared how he had several opportunities early on to be a leader yet despite those opportunities, he still made mistakes. He chose to learn from those mistakes because making the same mistake twice is what we call “crumbs.” Those are crumbs that you will leave behind and what starts to develop is a pattern. A pattern of your character which will go before you as you get older and you will be judged by your character! Through sharing his own personal story of adversity, he encouraged our youth to use the adversity they face in their own daily lives to make change for the better later in their life.

 

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Camila’s Tips: Cinnamon Baked Apples with Nuts + Coconut Sugar

 

 

Looking for a dessert option this that isn’t too sweet or full of refined sugar? We’ve got just the recipe for you — These Cinnamon Baked Apples with Nuts + Coconut Sugar definitely satisfy any sweet tooth, and require such little prep work that you’ll be making them all holiday long (and beyond!)

All you’ll need are some great quality organic apples (we used red, but you can also use Granny Smith), chopped walnuts or pecans, coconut sugar, organic butter, cinnamon and water. Throw them in the oven for 40-45 minutes and you’re all set! Be sure to serve quickly after cooling so your apples stay nice and plump!

Ingredients:
• 4 organic apples
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 2 tbsp organic butter
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using a paring knife or apple corer, remove the stem and seeds from the apples, making a deep hole where the filling will go.
2. Combine the coconut sugar, butter and cinnamon in a small bowl and mix well to combine. Add the nuts. Spoon the mixture evenly into each of the apples.
3. Add 1/4 cup of water to a baking dish and place apples on top.
4. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes.
Spoon the sauce drippings from the pan over the apples.

Enjoy! Beijos
– Camila

Full recipe on Women of Today »

 

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Swag of the Month: Bumper Stickers!

Bumper Stickers for Your Car! …Because your ride should look as cool as you do!

Bumper Sticker

Oval Sticker

 

Matthew McConaughey Helps Support Voter Registration

 

 
JKL Founder Matthew McConaughey participated in Facebook Watch’s Vote-A-Thon 2020 on Tuesday, Sept. 22, to support National Voter Registration Day.
The non-partisan educational event aimed to register 4 million voters in order to become the largest voting information campaign in American history. The reimagined telethon, featuring informational games, absentee ballot tutorials and helpful reminders ultimately sent Facebook users to its Voting Information Center with important resources ahead of the Nov. 3 presidential election. In case you missed it, you can check out the video here.
 

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2020 Election: JKL Students Get Involved

 

 
This year, we want to make sure that our just keep livin students know that their voices matter! Our goal is to equipped the JKL community with information and resources needed to help get everyone who is eligible to vote registered.
We have also encouraged our younger students to spread awareness for the importance of voting as well as pledge to vote when they are of age. This is such an important and exciting time for the first-time voters in our program and we are happy to provide assistance throughout the process.
Additionally, we had the pleasure of hosting guest speaker, Sydney Rose from Vote.org, who led a great presentation about easy-to-use online voter tools and how to access local voter information. We have a number of additional events and activities coming up with a focus on voting and we look forward to the impacting change that comes through education and accessibility to quality information.

Are You Registered to Vote?

 

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What Are You Grateful For?

 

“I’m grateful for all the obstacles in my life. They have strengthened me as I continue with my journey.”
– Lesely, Sam Houston High School, Texas

  – – – –  

“I’m grateful for social media because even though I can’t vote, at least I can encourage others to.”
– Malik, Anacostia High School, Washington D.C.

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“I’m grateful for being alive and having the confidence to show my face on camera, on Zoom because I remember there was a time where I had a shell and I couldn’t even do that, so I am just proud and grateful.”
– Mya, New Visions High School, New York

 

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Honoring Those Lost on 9/11

 

 
JKL Founder Matthew McConaughey joined other celebrities including Alec Baldwin and Kristen Bell for Cantor Fitzgerald & BGC Partners’ virtual Charity Day 2020, a one-day event that works to honor the lives of those lost on 9/11.
These philanthropic famous faces joined the trading firm’s clients and employees in a virtual meet and greet session to raise funds for charitable organizations. The Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, which has raised approximately $180 million globally since its inception, was created to commemorate the 658 Cantor employees and 61 Eurobrokers lost in the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks.
The founders pledged on day one that help would always be there, not just to assist those affected by 9/11, but to provide hope and support around the globe. In addition to this worthy organization, the event also raised $10 million for hundreds of other charities around the world, including the just keep livin Foundation.
 

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Pick Up Matthew McConaughey’s Memoir Later This Month!

 

 
Ever since I learned to write, I’ve been keeping a journal, writing down anything that turned me on, turned me off, made me laugh, made me cry, made me question, or kept me up at night,” McConaughey says in a video message to his social media followers.
“Two years ago, I worked up the courage to take all of those journals off into solitary confinement just to see what the hell I had, and I returned with a book.”
That book is called Greenlights, an unconventional memoir filled with raucous stories, outlaw wisdom, and lessons learned the hard way about living with greater satisfaction. When asked about the meaning of the title, McConaughey said, “it’s the story about how I have — and we all can — catch more of them in this life we’re livin’. Greenlights, which McConaughey calls, “a love letter to life,” is available from Penguin Random House on October 20th.
 

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Camila’s Tips: No Mayo Coleslaw

 

 
This recipe goes well with everything!!!! Eat it alone or enjoy it as a dish by itself!
The cabbage will last you a long time in the refrigerator before you shred it, and then it will last you few days after you make this recipe! With the times we are going through now, it is essential to make things that will last longer and require you to take fewer trips to the store! It is also a super inexpensive recipe to make, and a better-for-you version of coleslaw because it doesn’t have the mayo.
Ingredients:
• Green Cabbage
• 1 large red apple julienned or thin sliced (I used Granny Smith )
• 1/2 or 1/4 red red onion thinly sliced (the amount depends on the size of your cabbage )
• 3 tbsp coarsely chopped mint
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar≈ • 1-2 tsp white wine vinegar
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Finely shred the cabbage using a mandoline. If you don’t have one, use a sharp knife and shred as fine as you can! The thinner the cabbage, the better this will taste.
2. Combine all the other Ingredients and mix together in a large bowl. Taste it as you go to see if it needs any more acidity, moisture or salt!
3. Can be served right the way or it gets better next day!
Enjoy! Beijos
– Camila
 

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Swag of the Month: Camo Time!

You won’t blend in when you sport the just keep livin hoodie or cap. Perfect for those cooler days ahead.

Camo Sweatshirt

Camo Trucker Hat