Jazzy Jam for Empowerment (JJE), in partnership with Pasadena Unified School District, hosted a Friendsgiving event at John Muir High School to kick off the holiday season. The event aimed to help teenagers learn how to socialize with peers and teachers over a catered lunch while engaging in wellness and self-care exercises, as well as gratitude activities.
“Our mission is to sponsor, support, empower, engage, and raise awareness of relevant social issues and mental health wellness initiatives,” said Jacqueline Snell, the founder of Jazzy Jam for Empowerment. “The Friendsgiving event was a heartfelt success, bringing together over 150 students, including teachers and staff, to share a meaningful experience.”
The event provided students with much more than just a delicious meal. They gained:
- A sense of community and connection through the shared experience.
- Knowledge about social-emotional skills and the importance of gratitude.
Incorporating social-emotional skills and gratitude into educational settings fosters a supportive environment, enhances student engagement, and promotes a positive school culture.
The students also expressed their appreciation to their teachers and peers, fostering stronger relationships and creating a more positive school environment.
“Seeing the students enjoy an amazing meal, engage in social-emotional learning, and embrace the importance of gratitude likely filled you with pride,” said Snell. “Watching the kids express their appreciation to their teachers and peers, and even share hugs, showed that the event achieved its goal of fostering connection, kindness, and a sense of community.”
The Friendsgiving event was made possible through the generous support of Impeccable Catering, who donated a full Thanksgiving feast for the attendees. The event also received endorsement and participation from local law enforcement, including Beverly Bogaard and Officer Jasmine Thomas of the Pasadena Police Department, as well as former Councilwoman Jacque Robinson.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement provided by our community partners,” said Snell. “Their involvement added an extra layer of care and community connection to the Friendsgiving event, contributing to its success and reinforcing the values of gratitude, support, and unity.”
The Jazzy Jam for Empowerment team, along with the staff and leadership of John Muir High School, worked tirelessly to create a memorable and impactful event for the students.
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The Friendsgiving celebration served as a shining example of the power of collaboration and the positive impact that can be achieved when schools, community organizations, and local leaders come together to support the well-being and empowerment of young people.
For more information about Jazzy Jam for Empowerment and its initiatives, please visit www.jazzyjam.org.
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