As the new year approaches, anticipation fills the air for Jacqueline Snell and her inspiring non-profit organization, Jazzy Jam for Empowerment. With a steadfast dedication to nurturing social-emotional growth and enhancing community bonds, Snell is poised to launch a series of initiatives to uplift youth, particularly Black students who often encounter systemic hurdles. Her mission is urgent and vital: to prevent these students from becoming ensnared in the school-to-prison pipeline and to cultivate safe spaces where everyone feels valued and understood.
Founded on the principles of support and empowerment, Jazzy Jam for Empowerment has already made significant strides in the community. Last year, Snell organized “A Day of Solace” at the McKinley School of Arts, an event designed to address the emotional needs of grieving students during the holiday season. This initiative brought together a dedicated team of trained local therapists who volunteered their time to counsel students, offering a safe environment for them to express their feelings and learn coping strategies.
Continuing her commitment to youth empowerment, Snell partnered with the Pasadena Unified School District to host a Friendsgiving event at John Muir High School on November 22, 2024. This gathering kicked off the holiday season with social-emotional learning, gratitude, and community building.
“Our mission is to sponsor, support, empower, engage, and raise awareness of relevant social issues and mental health wellness initiatives,” Snell stated. “The Friendsgiving event was a heartfelt success, bringing together over 150 students, teachers, and staff for a meaningful experience.”
The Friendsgiving celebration offered more than just a delicious meal; it gave students a sense of belonging through shared experiences. Engaging in wellness and self-care activities, participants learned valuable social-emotional skills and the importance of gratitude, fostering stronger relationships, and contributing to a positive school environment.
“Seeing the students enjoy an amazing meal, engage in social-emotional learning, and embrace gratitude filled me with pride,” Snell reflected. “Watching the kids express their appreciation and share hugs showed that the event achieved its goal of fostering connection and kindness.”
The success of the Friendsgiving event was made possible by the generous support of Impeccable Catering, which donated a full feast. Local law enforcement, including Beverly Bogaard and Officer Jasmine Thomas from the Pasadena Police Department, as well as former Councilwoman Jacque Robinson, participated in the event, exemplifying their commitment to community collaboration.
“We are grateful for the support and encouragement from our community partners,” Snell expressed. “Their involvement added an extra layer of care and reinforced the values of gratitude, support, and unity.”
As the new year unfolds, Snell and her team are energized by the momentum from the Friendsgiving event. Jazzy Jam for Empowerment plans to expand its reach and impact, focusing on creating opportunities for students to excel in various aspects of their lives. By creating an environment of collaboration and support, Snell aims to equip every young person with the tools they need to navigate their future successfully.
Upcoming initiatives will emphasize the importance of social-emotional learning, integrating these skills into daily interactions to better prepare students for the complexities of their lives. Snell believes nurturing emotional intelligence is crucial for building resilience and empathy, enabling young people to thrive in an ever-changing world.
As 2025 approaches, Jazzy Jam for Empowerment is committed to continuing its transformative work. The Friendsgiving celebration showcased the power of collaboration and positive change when schools, community organizations, and local leaders unite to support young people's well-being.
With fresh initiatives on the horizon, Snell and her team are excited about the possibilities ahead. Jazzy Jam for Empowerment, centered on gratitude, connection, and empowerment, is set to significantly impact youth in 2025.
For more information about Jazzy Jam for Empowerment and its upcoming initiatives, please visit www.jazzyjamforempowerment.org.
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