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September Newsletter

Kicking Off The 2026-2027 Program Year!

We are thrilled to kick off JKL’s 18th year of programming and begin another exciting chapter of empowering young people to lead active, healthy lives! As our programs prepare for their first sessions in September, many sites have already begun recruiting and welcoming new students into the JKL family.

This year, JKL will serve students through 52 programs across 23 cities in 10 states, creating opportunities for growth, connection, and personal development in communities across th country. We look forward to witnessing the incredible accomplishments of our students, instructors, and school partners as they embrace new challenges and experiences throughout the year.

As we continue our mission of making a lasting impact, we have an exciting lineup of engagingactivities, creative opportunities, and memorable experiences planned for the months ahead. We can’t wait to see what this year’s JKL community will achieve together!

JKL x Los Angeles Rams at Sofi Stadium

On August 22, 55 JKL students and their family members attended the Los Angeles Rams preseason game against the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium. Thanks to our incredible partners at the Rams organization, many of our students had the opportunity to experience their very first NFL game!

From taking in the sights of the world-class stadium to cheering alongside thousands of fans, the day was filled with excitement and unforgettable memories. Students also had the chance to connect with peers from other JKL programs, strengthening friendships and building community beyond their own school sites.

To make the experience even better, the Rams capped off the day with a shutout victory! It was a memorable outing and a fantastic way to kick off another great year of JKL programming.

Summer Interns Spotlight: Angel & Bryan Back to the Roots

This summer, we had the privilege of welcoming two outstanding interns, Angel Perez (left) and Bryan Marroquin (right), to the JKL team. Throughout their internships, they not only worked hard but also brought incredible passion, dedication, and a genuine desire to give back to the communities that helped shape them!

Both Angel and Bryan are proud JKL alumni. Angel participated in the JKL program at Venice High School and graduated with the Class of 2023, while Bryan was a JKL student at Animo South Los Angeles Charter School and graduated in 2021. Each shared how much the program positively impacted their lives and inspired them to return and support the next generation of JKL students.

Angel’s passion for fitness and boxing was evident in everything he did, demonstrating strong work ethic, discipline, and commitment throughout the summer. This fall, he will begin his first semester at the University of California, Davis, and we are excited to see all that he accomplishes in this next chapter!

Bryan brought creativity, enthusiasm, and talent to every project, especially through his work in media and content creation. His passion for music and creative storytelling shined through his unique perspective and artistic vision. This year, Bryan will come full circle as he returns to Animo South Los Angeles Charter School as a JKL instructor. From JKL student to JKL intern to JKL instructor, his journey is a powerful example of the lasting impact of the program.

It has been an absolute pleasure having these two rockstars on our team this summer! We are incredibly proud of Angel and Bryan and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.

Camila’s Corner: Gluten-Free Baked Corn Wrap

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a wrap that starts with real corn, whole kernels baked right into the batter so every bite feels warm, sweet, and textured.

This gluten free wraps leans on simple nourishing ingredients: eggs for lift, cheese for creamy melt, and corn for that unmistakable summer brightness!

Full recipe HERE!

JKL Product of the Month: Got Your Back-Pack

Meet your new everyday essential! This sleek, neoprene backpack brings together style, comfort, and serious functionality—whether you’re heading to class, commuting to work, traveling, or just out and about. Accommodates up to a 16” laptop with a spacious main compartment.

Includes 2 side pockets, a trolley sleeve, key leash, zip front pocket and interior pouches for organizing smaller items.

Click HERE to purchase!