Archives: Spotlight

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!

Samantha & Jorge , JKL Students
Animo Inglewood, Los Angeles

Samantha & Jorge are stellar students who represent our Animo Inglewood JKL program.

They recently had the opportunity to speak at our annual board meeting. Both Samantha & Jorge articulated a passion for the JKL program and the benefit of utilizing all the resources JKL brings to their campus. The organic, welcoming and safe environment they both spoke of helped them establish great friendships and gave them a safe place to fully be themselves.

The JKL l trips and first-time experiences were highlights, but the bond and respect created with their JKL instructors was the true highlight. Samantha and Jorge are both Seniors this year and are looking to end their high school years with a bang and keep the JKL mission alive well into their college years. 

Jada, JKL Student
L.B. Landry High School, New Orleans, LA

JKL student, Jada from our L.B. Landry High School program, is passionate and brightens any room she walks in!

Jada is going into her fourth year in the jkl program. She has had a chance to participate in many activities, from mountain biking and kayaking, to learning how to double-Dutch and incorporating healthy foods into her daily routine. Although Jada doesn’t consider herself an athlete, her most recent JKL first-time experience with Pickleball has changed that. “I’m not really into sports, but pickleball was fun, and I can get into it.”

Her favorite element of the program is community service, and her most memorable experience was feeding and singing for the local homeless community. She explains, “in JKL, not only is your body getting better, but your soul is getting better from meeting new people and serving the community.” After high school, Jada wants to pursue a degree in theatrical arts at Coppin State University in Baltimore. Jada has a bright future ahead of her and we can’t wait to see her shine!  

Saydi, JKL Student
Uvalde High School, Uvalde, TX

Uvalde High School student Saydi is a leader in the making who benefits from the jkl program, but at first, was skeptical. “I thought the program would be corny until I saw them always cooking and learned that Ms. Silva was leading jkl,” expresses Saydi.

Once she officially joined, she has since embraced the nutritional element of the program. Saydi has become better at following recipes and incorporating more veggies into her dishes. Saydi loves taking food home for her parents to enjoy. Community service is another element of the program Saydi has embraced. “It’s so much fun doing things for my community; I love having the chance to do face painting in the park and putting smiles on the little kids’ faces,” says Saydi.

Uvalde High School has only had one semester of jkl and Saydi is looking forward to a full year of programming all while getting ready for college applications! After high school, Saydi would like to pursue a degree in Marine Biology at Texas A&M Corpus Cristi. The jkl instructor, Ms. Silva says, “It is the most rewarding part of my job to see the amazing transformation of empowerment run through Saydi’s self-esteem and all aspects of her personality.”