Archives: Spotlight

JKL student Hannah is in her third year as a member and leader of our James Lawson H.S. program and is thriving! The JKL program has become Hannah’s family hub, where she feels safe and supported. She has made many meaningful friendships and has enjoyed countless first-time experiences. “Being able to fly on an airplane for the first time and visit D.C. and speak on behalf of the JKL program is a significant highlight of my JKL journey so far,” Hannah said. As many of our students expressed, the gratitude circle has been a pillar for them to be more grateful and understand the value of empathy, and that is what it has done for Hannah:

 “Over the last 3 years, Hannah has been a light in the program. She goes above and beyond for her community and brings a smile to everyone’s face” – JKL James Lawson Instructor. 

Hannah has one more year left of high school. She is interested in obtaining a Cosmetology degree and having a creative outlet with a photography business. It’s always a breath of fresh air when we see our JKL students set goals and implement the necessary steps to accomplish them. We wish Hannah well and support her in all her efforts. 

Obi is not just a JKL member but also the President of the Lee High School Black Student Union, a passionate artist, and a multi-event track athlete. While some might say that Obi is very busy, he sees it as enjoying life, competing at a high standard, leading with love, and activating community service and gratitude on campus. “The Gratitude circle is my favorite part of JKL. Many people do many things that they never take the time to appreciate. The gratitude circle gives us that time,” Obi says. After high school, Obi hopes to focus on becoming a creative art director and owning a media company where he can create art full-time. 

“Obi is a student who has impacted Lee High School and JKL. He is driven, a leader, gifted and a great asset to our group. Obi is an excellent representative of JKL.”

-Ms. Smartt, JKL Instructor.

This month, we want to shout out to two of our senior just keep livin students who are shining bright in their programs! This past month, Ashley and Gurnaaz from our Eastern Hills and North Crowley H.S. programs had the chance to share their stories at our long-time partner, the Rangers Foundation donor event! Both students shared that they enjoyed having a safe space after school, creating new positive friendships, and learning many life skills. Ashley highlighted her leader, “Coach Knight,” who has supported her in many vulnerable moments and provided guidance to help her have a positive mindset when faced with adversity. Gurnaaz shared about her first fishing experience, catching her first fish, and implementing healthy recipes from JKL for her family to enjoy. Both Gurnaaz and Ashley have very different backgrounds and experiences. Still, they have one thing in common: utilizing the JKL program and incorporating the pillars of community service, nutrition, wellness, and fitness into their daily lives. To see these two students thrive and shine within our JKL programs is a true pleasure!

This summer, we had the pleasure of hosting a few of our recent JKL graduates for a summer internship before heading to college. Up next, we have Jorge, who has also been a great addition to the team this summer!

1. What was the highlight of your internship at the just keep livin Foundation?

My first day was the highlight of my internship at the just keep livin Foundation. Sam and I made gift bags for an upcoming teacher training. Getting all those bags together was a little hectic, but we got to work as a team and figure out ways to split the work and get it done. It was a reminder of our time at JKL and the community it helps foster and build for the students who are part of it. 

2. What college are you attending in the fall, and what are you looking forward to?

I will attend the University of California, Riverside, to pursue a Biology degree. Science has always been a passion of mine, and this is an opportunity to turn that passion into a strong career path in STEM. I’m looking forward to a large campus experience where I can meet new people, create relationships, and expand my education and knowledge.

3. What is one of your all-time favorite JKL memories? 

If I needed to name an all-time favorite JKL memory, I’d say it was our recent summer Catalina trip. I’d never been on a boat before or to Catalina Island and didn’t know what to expect, but knowing I’d go with JKL made it all the better. We got to enjoy the island’s water activities, support the local businesses, and take in the beautiful sites in and around the island. It was pure relaxation and fun!

This summer, we had the pleasure of hosting a few of our recent JKL graduates for a summer internship before heading to college. First, we have Samantha, who has been a great addition to the team!

1. What was the highlight of your internship at the just keep livin Foundation?

Interning at the just keep livin Foundation was an enriching experience for which I am truly grateful. The highlight of my internship was working behind the scenes, which revealed the immense love and effort poured into all the programs across the states by the jkl staff

2. What college are you attending in the fall, and what are you looking forward to?

This fall, I will attend Cal State Poly Pomona and major in Molecular & Cellular Biology. I look forward to starting a new chapter in my life! Starting University is an opportunity for a fresh start. It’s the scariest thing I think I’ll ever do because, for the first time, I’ll be managing my academic path and life on my terms, but that’s also what excites me most ironically. I’ve learned and grown so much during my time in JKL, like learning how to take the time to say thanks and be grateful for everything I have in my life, even during tough times. 

 3. What is one of your all-time favorite jkl memories? 

That’s a tricky question because I have so many memories, but I can name a few off the top of my head. More recently, I went on a trip with two of my friends, Jorge and Jose, and my teachers, Mr. Marquez and Ms. Montenegro, to Washington, D.C. The whole experience was incredible because I had never traveled across the country before, let alone lobbied at the U.S. Capitol. I was completely overwhelmed in the best way possible. I hold those memories close to my heart not just because of their significance but because of all the moments we shared along the way—the nerdy ones, the funny ones, and most of all, the new ones. JKL is something I couldn’t recommend more for students. High school can be scary, stressful, and, for some, almost unbearable, but I’ve personally found being a part of JKL to be the highlight of my high school experience. 

JKL Instructor Karen Long received our “Make it Happen” Staff of the Year Award at our
National Teacher Training this year! Ms. Long is proactive, resourceful, and passionate about
giving first-time opportunities to our JKL students. Ms. Long completed her first year as a solo
JKL instructor at Ralph Ellison H.S. in Chicago, Illinois. She had many program highlights from
students improving their behavior and grades in school to seeing her students with special needs
thrive. She had so many students thank her for their first-time experiences, including yoga, golf
lessons, ice skating, and nutrition knowledge. “Being able to show my students a different world
outside their neighborhood has been a fantastic experience, thanks to JKL. I look forward to
hitting the ground running next year and bringing even more opportunities to my students.” This
summer, Ms. Long will be enjoying a well-deserved trip exploring Vietnam. We can’t wait to see
the JKL Ralph Ellison program in action next school year!

Daejon, an Indiana native, found his community through the Pinkston jkl program the 2nd day he arrived in Dallas. Participating in the jkl gratitude circle not only helped him grow but also fostered deep friendships with other jkl students from around the Texas area. The sense of belonging he experienced was profound, and he cherishes the memories of giving back to the community and attending field day events. Daejon Jackson truly “Defines JKL”. From the day he joined 3 years ago until now, it’s been like planting a seed in fertile soil, and it has been a joy watching him grow. He’s a true ambassador for the Just Keep Livin Program, and we wish him the best- Mr McGee (Pinkston jkl Instructor). After High school graduation, Daejon plans to obtain his drone license, start a business for himself, and enroll in school to ultimately become a pilot.  

Lance, Carver High School

Lance is a 12th-grade student enrolled in the JKL program at our Carver High School. He is currently in his second semester of JKL and has formed a family of both new and old friends. According to MS Caldwell, “Lance is a great student in our JKL program who provides much positive energy for our gratitude circles and his passion for the arts.” Lance is also a visual artist who enjoys creating works for his fellow JKL members. Since joining the program, fitness has become an integral part of his lifestyle, and he finds it fun to engage in weekly exercises with his friends in JKL. After high school, Lance plans to attend college and earn a degree in graphic design. He is excited to showcase his skills and passion for drawing and video editing. When you meet Lance, you’ll immediately notice that he’s a leader with a lot of gratitude and art to offer the world.

Shakiya, JKL Student
Ralph Ellison High School

The Ralph Ellison jkl program is off to a great start and has already gained a few ambassadors who believe in the mission. Freshmen student Shakiya is one of those ambassadors who is enjoying her time in jkl: “I love what jkl stands for; it’s more than just fitness; you learn new things like life skills and meet new people.

The group has made me want to think about what I want for myself in the future”. Since joining the program, Shakiya has found her love for helping people through community service, learning how to ice skate for the first time, and sharing the gratitude circle with her family. “Shakiya has perfect JKL attendance so far this year, actively participates in all activities, and contributes meaningful reflections and thoughts during discussions and gratitude circles.

Watching her excel in the JKL program this year is something that I am truly grateful for – Karen Long (jkl instructor)”. With 3 ½ years left in high school, Shakiya looks forward to seeing how jkl will enhance her experience. After High School, she would like to go into the medical field to become a pediatrician one day. We do not doubt that Shakiya will accomplish all her goals and dreams and continue to bring such a positive energy to the jkl program. 

Shyanne, JKL Student
High School for Innovation and Advertising in Media

When the JKL program launched this past fall, Shyanne was among the first to sign up. After a few months of learning about gratitude, nutrition, and community service in a safe environment, Cheyenne was on board.

“Through JKL, it has allowed me to get closer to my peers and advisors and has also helped me be calmer and take my wellness seriously.” The gratitude circle is significant to Shyanne and her weekly dedication to attending the program and expressing herself. Although Shyanne is a senior, she already has her after-high school plan.

Shyanne would like to study pre-veterinary medicine at Delaware State University. “Shyanne is a dynamic young lady who always rises to any occasion. She loves to be involved in all school activities. Shyanne brings an electrifying energy to our jkl program” – jkl Instructor. Students like Shyanne bring such a bright light and positive energy to our programs; we can’t wait to see what the next semester will bring her way!

Alyhria Carey, JKL Student
East Laurens High School, GA

East Laurens student Alyhria Carey has found her tribe in the just keep livin program. She tributes the JKL program for having such a significant and positive impact on her life. Alyhria was a timid student from 9th to 10th grade until joining the program.

Once she was fully committed, her grades improved, her social life enhanced, she established new friendships and was selected for the homecoming court!

“My favorite part of JKL is the community service because you get to see the smiles on the people’s faces you are helping, and you get to create more bonds.” Alyhria has great energy and is looking to continue to utilize the JKL program experiences and resources. After high school, Alyhria would like to enlist in the National Guard and become a registered nurse at Savannah State College. We look forward to seeing Alyhria shine this semester and beyond!