Jemaryon is the definition of a student who makes the most of every opportunity. At East Laurens High School in Georgia, he has created a truly enriching high school experience by actively engaging in campus leadership and community programs. In addition to being a dedicated JKL participant, Jemaryon serves as Student Council President, is a member of Teen Court, participates in the Dublin Youth City Council, and leads his school band as a Drum Major.
Through JKL, Jemaryon has learned the importance of prioritizing self-care and embracing gratitude. “The gratitude component of JKL is my favorite because it helps me appreciate the little things. Self-care through gratitude and physical movement has really helped me in the program,” he shares.
Students like Jemaryon bring energy, hope, and peer leadership to JKL programs. In his final semester, he looks forward to deepening connections and continuing to inspire others. “Jemaryon is a bright light in our school who works with all the committees for the school and the community,” says Ms. Hester. With plans to attend Florida A&M University (FAMU), Jemaryon is ready to take on the world – and we have no doubt he will achieve his dreams.
Transfer student Kenariah is halfway through her senior year and experiencing the Collegiate Baton Rouge (Louisiana) JKL program for the first time this semester. From day one, she felt an immediate connection with the program’s wellness, mental health, and community service offerings. Kenariah is already making her mark as a leader within the program and has been a great resource and encouragement for other students on campus to join.
Her leadership in JKL has inspired many students to get involved and prioritize their mental health. “I can honestly say this program has changed me, I’ve lost weight, I don’t drink soda anymore, and I really enjoy journaling, which helps my mental health“, she shared. Students like Kenariah, who transfer to a new school, can struggle to find their tribe. We are so glad our JKL instructor, Ms. Schenall, invited her to a JKL session, and she never turned back. Ms. Schenall shared, “Kenariah is a student who isn’t embarrassed or shy about her past struggles with mental health. Since joining the JKL program, she has now been inspiring students in and out of the program. She’s quickly become a leader in JKL, utilizing her relationships across campus to encourage others to join the JKL program,”.
After high school, Kenariah plans to join the Army to become an ammunition specialist. We’re so proud of her confidence, leadership, and vision for the future – and we’re cheering her on as she takes the next step in her journey!
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.
Meet Angel, a ‘Just Keep Livin’ student from our Chavez High School program in Houston. We had the pleasure of meeting Angel at our Academy’s Back-to-School activation. What made Angel stand out was that we discovered he was using his Academy gift card to purchase items for his younger brothers. It was such a selfless act, showcasing Angel’s character. Over the past year, Angel has enjoyed the physical fitness element of JKL and learning how to be disciplined with running goals and the training that comes with it. However, community service events were something near and dear to his heart. “I like being able to give back to people in need. When I was young, my family was struggling, so I know how it feels to be in need. Community service made me feel like a better version of myself”. Angel, like many of JKL students, has found purpose in our program and looks forward to Junior year to explore more of the Houston area through JKL field trips, community service activations, and any 5k race he can participate in.
“When I first met Angel, he tended to keep to himself. I saw a change in his character and how he holds himself since he joined JKL. He has become more confident; he strives to be a better version of himself and is always willing to be a helping hand to others. “-JKL instructor Ms. Castillo.
However, as a junior, Angel is weighing his post-high school options of attending college to become a civil engineer or joining the Marines. Whatever the choice is, we are here to support Angel and see him shine!
Jamarion is an excellent JKL student and a great athlete, closing out his junior year experience this senior year! The welcoming family environment and peer support have had a lasting impact since his first year in the JKL program. Ever since his first field trip to the Main Event Dallas, a vibrant entertainment hub where people come together for food, fun, and friendly competition, he has made friends who would ultimately become his core friend group throughout high school. “My JKL instructors have been there to help me when I was going through a rough time. The support, community service, and new experiences have been a true highlight for me.” Jamarion, a teen father, takes pride in caring for his son, excelling academically, and participating in sports such as Football and Basketball, and the JKL program.
“Jamarion’s optimism through his adversity is admirable”- JKL Instructor
As Jamarion enters his senior year, he is looking forward to more community service activations and trips to explore more of Texas through JKL opportunities. After graduation, Jamarion is eyeing possible enrollment at The University of North Texas. We are excited to see him in action this year! Jamarion, we’re proud to support Henry on his journey and can’t wait to see where his talents and dedication take him next!
This summer, we had the pleasure of welcoming Chloe to the JKL team as a dedicated intern. Chloe brought a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and genuine passion for youth engagement. “I believe that no one gets to choose the cards they are dealt, so they shouldn’t be punished for them. I think that everyone should have the resources and opportunities they need to be successful, and that’s why I fell in love with JKL.”
Chloe consistently went above and beyond in her role as our summer intern. From handling backend data work, social media content, event coordination, to providing feedback at our National Teacher Training. Chloe’s professionalism and thoughtful presence left a lasting impact, and we’re proud to have been part of her journey. We wish her all the best as she begins her junior year at USC, where she is studying public policy with an emphasis on nonprofits, philanthropy, and social innovation.
Jayden, a member of the Stratford JKL program since 10th grade, is making his mark. Jayden has grown into a thoughtful and active student who is an excellent peer leader. After crossing the stage this fall, he’s headed to Nashville State to study business with the ultimate dream of opening his own sports bar-style restaurant. Through the JKL program, Jayden didn’t just gain fitness skills or healthy recipes—he found his community. He highlights fitness as his favorite pillar of the program, saying he loves staying active and learning exercises and habits he plans to carry forward. Monthly walks, rock climbing, and even upcoming horseback riding trips gave him a chance to explore new experiences and grow outside his comfort zone.
“If I ever had a son, I would want it to be Jayden. Sweet disposition; intelligent; polite; great attitude; always eager to help others”- Mr. Keith, JKL Instructor
Before JKL, Jayden described himself as an introvert. “This program helped me grow my social life,” he explained. The Gratitude Circle, a staple of the JKL experience, became a place where he felt safe and supported by his peers and teachers. “Mr. Keith helped me with trying new things and being more outgoing.”
Jayden’s experience is a significant part of his high school journey, filling his life with purpose, friendships, and confidence. We are proud of Jayden and know that his work ethic and passion will take him far!
Joshua, a standout senior, has been a shining example of leadership, gratitude, and personal growth. Known for his positive energy, Joshua has embraced the JKL program during his last year of high school, especially the wellness pillar, where yoga and meditation have become his way to reflect and center himself. Inspired by his father, he plans to pursue trade school and enter the automobile industry. Whether trying golf for the first time or making lifelong friendships in the program, Joshua’s journey has been marked by resilience and self-discovery.
“You can figure out who you are becoming and express yourself in the program without being judged. If I could have 10 Joshua’s, every day would be a greater day.”
-Ms. Caldwell, JKL Instructor
We’ll miss his warm spirit, but we know his future is incredibly bright—especially as he continues to spread the power of gratitude wherever he goes.
12th grade scholar Michael came to the Ralph Ellison JKL program to hang out with his friend, but little did he know this would be one of his best decisions as a senior. Community service was a mental switch for Michael, as he thought he was joining to get credit for his senior graduation. However, he enjoyed donating and organizing resources at the book bank, which later inspired Michael to give food to the homeless community on his way home from JKL. Before joining the JKL program, Michael had a good pulse in respecting the food that enters his body. Still, he grasped the importance of having a good balance of fruits and vegetables, which he learned through the program’s monthly nutrition lessons.
“Michael is extremely dedicated to the JKL program. He comes to all JKL meetings and events with a positive attitude, a kind heart, and an open mind for trying new things. Throughout his time in the JKL program, Michael has shown personal and academic growth. It has been our pleasure watching him flourish in the program,” – Ms. Long, JKL Instructor
Michael is glad he decided to check out JKL that one day to hang out with his friend. Now, he has made several new friends and has been exposed to multiple first-time experiences. He is looking to complete his senior year by ensuring everyone around him knows the importance of smiling and being grateful for the small things in life. After graduation, Michael wants to take on the trade world by learning a skill set within the welding career path. We know Michael will positively impact the world and be a proud JKL alum in all he does!
Meet Lendy, a great, warm-hearted student shining bright in the JKL program at Sunset High School. Over the past few years in the program, our fitness component has allowed her to be consistently active with workouts. “If you don’t have access to tools for working out, you have no motivation. In JKL, I can be amongst my peers and be encouraged to work out, so having access to fun workouts has been the best.” There have been many moments of gratitude for the resources Lendy has embraced. The value of giving back to her community and seeing local families happy by helping with food drives has resonated with Lendy. Taking advantage of community service allowed her to attend a Texas Ranger World Series game while making an impact by collecting recyclable items throughout the venue with her JKL peers.
“Lendy Morales is a Senior with a kind heart. She is willing to help fellow students and participates in events that support our community. She serves as a great example to other JKL participants”- JKL Instructor, Major Simpson.
It is our honor to support students like Lendy, who have remained committed to the JKL program since the beginning of her high school career!
The Uvalde High School JKL program is making a powerful impact both on campus and in the community, and one of its shining stars is junior Jaslyn. From the moment she joined, Jaslyn has taken advantage of all JKL offers, and it’s clear she’s thriving. Recently, she and her JKL peers played a key role in building the 9th Kaboom playground for the Uvalde community, an experience that left her feeling proud. “I felt so good giving back to my community and knowing that I had a hand in creating that playground is something I’ll always remember.”
For Jaslyn, the JKL program has transformed her high school journey in ways she never imagined. She thought joining the cheer team would be her most significant achievement and only memory from high school. But now, two and a half years later, as a high school junior, she is experiencing new things like zip lining hundreds of feet in the air, rock climbing, trying new fruits and veggies, and being selected to attend a youth leadership conference.
“Jaslyn is a remarkable person with a heart full of kindness,” says a fellow student. “She’s always ready to listen, lend a hand, or be a friend to anyone in need. Over the past few years, I’ve seen her grow beyond her comfort zone, constantly striving to improve and embracing every part of the program.”
With her eyes set on the future, Jaslyn is determined to become the first in her family to graduate from high school and attend college. She is a testament to hard work, community spirit, and the power of believing in yourself.
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.
