PROGRAMS

Mentorship

•

Future Leaders

•

Community

•

Mentorship • Future Leaders • Community •

  • Positive Youth Development Program

    This year-long initiative focuses on empowering young individuals, ages 8-18, through an intensive curriculum that emphasizes self-esteem, etiquette, job readiness, life skills, career paths, mental health, and addressing behavioral issues. Participants and their parents or guardians are required to attend an initial parent meeting, after which a development plan and goals are established. Data is collected at 6 months and 12 months to assess progress, and children who have met their goals and shown improvement may be re-enrolled for continued support.

    Sign up

  • Intensive Juvenile Care Program

    The program is an intensive 3-month to 12-month program. In addition to this central program, our initiatives extend to an Intensive Juvenile Care Program, which includes comprehensive case management for at-risk youth. We are actively engaged in developing a youth violence prevention curriculum and maintaining a dedicated focus on foster care and homeless teenagers. Furthermore, we address the crucial need for support and guidance for juveniles upon their release from the juvenile detention center. Our commitment is to provide holistic assistance to these young individuals, ensuring a smoother transition and fostering their positive reintegration into the community.

    sign up

  • Teen Parent Program

    This program is designed to empower teen parents with the necessary skills and support for a successful future. It includes parenting classes, educational opportunities, and career development guidance, ensuring that these young parents are well-equipped to provide for their children while pursuing their own goals. This is a 12 month program with the option to re-enroll until the age of 25.

    sign up

  • Community Involvement Program

    We are pleased to offer a Community Involvement Program, specifically crafted to cultivate community strength. Our organization highly values the priceless contributions made by dedicated volunteers who align with our mission. In this context, Jamal Smiles will take a central role in vetting and assembling a pool of volunteers. Furthermore, these volunteers will actively engage with other organizations addressing vital needs within the community.

    sign up

THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF JAMAL SMILES

  • Empowering Communities with Jamal's Power Hour: One of our flagship initiatives, Jamal’s Power Hour, exemplifies our dedication to creating positive change. During the scorching summer months, we engage with under served communities in Lafayette, offering not just lunch but also invaluable encouragement and support. By nourishing both their bodies and spirits, we aim to inspire the youth to dream big and reach for their goals.

    Recognized at NCORE Conference: Our commitment to transforming lives and communities has not gone unnoticed. The prestigious NCORE conference in New Orleans acknowledged the profound impact of Jamal Smiles, underscoring our dedication to creating opportunities and fostering success among young people.

    Events That Make a Difference: At Jamal Smiles, our work goes beyond the summertime. We host a variety of events, such as back-to-school banquets and Christmas Drives, all aimed at bringing joy and support to the children in our program. These initiatives reflect our tireless efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth, nurturing their growth and development.

    Redefining Beauty Standards and Breaking Barriers: Our commitment extends beyond mentorship and leadership to redefine societal norms. Through our journey, we are proud to contribute to breaking societal barriers and redefining beauty standards, promoting inclusivity and self-acceptance.

    Acknowledgments and Accolades: Jamal Smiles' unwavering dedication has garnered recognition from esteemed institutions. During Women’s History Month, we were honored to be named as a finalist for Remarkable Women, a testament to our commitment to empowering the next generation. Moreover, we are deeply grateful to have received recognition from the Beyoncé Knowles Bey Good Foundation for our impactful community work, which motivates us to strive for even greater success.

    A Proud Member of Family and Friends of Louisiana Incarcerated Children: We are not alone in our mission. As a member of Family and Friends of Louisiana Incarcerated Children, we collaborate with like-minded organizations to create a more promising future for the youth of Louisiana.


    At Jamal Smiles, our journey is marked by unwavering commitment, passion, and a deep desire to make a positive impact. Together, we strive to empower youth, break down barriers, and redefine the future. We invite you to join us on this remarkable journey of change and transformation.