Jacqueline Snell, creator of Jazzy Jam for Empowerment (JJE), is a champion for the underdog, drawing from her own childhood experiences. JJE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting youth and addressing social issues, mental health, and wellness initiatives.
Recently, Snell hosted the third annual Jazzy Jam Glam Prom Dress and Suit Giveaway in Pasadena, CA, with the support of various sponsors and organizations. The event aimed to alleviate the financial burden for parents and caregivers while providing an unforgettable experience and conducting non-invasive wellness checks for youth.
Expanding the Initiative
This year, Snell expanded the initiative to include young men, ensuring that all students could celebrate this milestone with dignity and joy. The event brought together a diverse group of organizations, including sponsors such as Sierra Subaru of Monrovia, Becca’s Closet, Windsor Fashion, and Sephora. With the collaborative effort, over 150 dresses and suits were generously given away to students from the local community, with inquiries pouring in from as far as Houston, TX. Attendees came from various parts of Southern California, highlighting the event’s impact and reach.
Supporting Students
A standout feature of the Jazzy Jam Glam Prom Dress and Suit Giveaway was that each student had a personal shopper who guided them through the shopping process, helping them find the perfect outfit. The shoppers also escorted the students to the accessory and shoe tables to complete their ensembles. Sierra Subaru of Monrovia, known for its dedication to more than just building cars, expressed its excitement in supporting Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD youth by providing prom dresses and suits through this collaborative effort.
Heartwarming Impact
The impact of the event was profound, as seen through the stories of the students it touched. Dominique Carpenter, a student at CIS Academy, tearfully expressed her gratitude for not having to burden her grandmother with the task of finding a dress. She emphasized how the event brought happiness to both herself and her grandmother. Snell emphasized that Jazzy Jam would continue to find unique ways to interact with students in a non-clinical manner, providing them with a safe space and support throughout the year.
Community Support
The Jazzy Jam event received unexpected support through monetary donations from Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (Pasadena Chapter) and the office of Congresswoman Judy Chu. Pasadena City Councilman Tyron Hampton, who played a crucial role in connecting Sierra Subaru of Monrovia with a reliable source for purchasing suits, attended the event and was overjoyed by the turnout.
Collaboration with Local Organizations
Jazzy Jam’s impact is amplified through its partnerships with local organizations. By working together, these organizations can combine their resources and expertise to provide a comprehensive support system for students. Through these collaborations, Jazzy Jam ensures that the message of social-emotional care and mental health services reaches a wider audience within the school district and the community.
Subaru’s Commitment
Sierra Subaru of Monrovia has always recognized the significance of community connections and expressed their commitment to positively impact the lives of young individuals beyond the road. The Subaru team donated 22 new suits and hosted a drive in their showroom to support the cause. This commitment further reflected Subaru Monrovia’s dedication to making a positive impact in the community. Snell appreciated Subaru’s involvement, as it aligned with her mission of promoting student well-being beyond the classroom.
Empowering Youth
The Jazzy Jam Glam Prom Dress and Suit Giveaway succeeded in its mission to alleviate the financial strain on students and families by providing free attire to those in need. Beyond the provision of clothing, the initiative aimed to instill confidence, foster a sense of belonging, and empower youth to embrace their individuality. At the end of the event, students received gift bags containing uplifting messages and self-care items to keep them motivated as they exited.
Jazzy Jam, under the leadership of Jacqueline Snell, is making a significant impact on the lives of students by promoting social-emotional care, mental health services, and overall wellness. Through community events that meet tangible immediate needs, Jazzy Jam is able to raise awareness within the school district and the wider community. By collaborating with local organizations, Jazzy Jam creates a support system that not only addresses immediate concerns but also fosters an environment of holistic well-being.
By providing prom dresses and suits to students who may otherwise be unable to afford them, Jazzy Jam
• Alleviated the financial burden on families
• Helped build student’s confidence
• Fostered a sense of belonging
• Empowered youth to embrace their individuality
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This and other Jazzy Jam initiatives led by Jacqueline Snell serve as a gateway to engage students in conversations about their well-being and the importance of seeking support.
With their dedication to empowering youth, Jazzy Jam is helping to create a brighter and healthier future for students.
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