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Jwanzaa began serving youth in
Prince George’s County,
Maryland
in 1996. Jwanzaa’s
programs grew out of the desire of a six concerned citizens,
including Mr. Clarence Godfrey, Sr.
These few men desired to answer the growing needs of
males growing up in homes where fathers were absent.
To ensure its programs aligned with the best practices of
the time, the founders adopted the principals of mentoring set
forth in The Abel Foundation guide, "How to Develop a Mentoring
Program.” The
founders also entered into partnerships with local programs such
as the Kiamsha Youth Development Program from Hunter Memorial
AME in Suitland,
Maryland.
Their collective vision, desire and persistence resulted
in the incorporation of Jwanzaa Youth Partnership.
From its inception, Jwanzaa garnered support
from the Bonnie Johns Children’s fund and agencies within
Prince George's
County Government.
Over the years the Department of Juvenile Justice, the
Prince George’s County Health Department, The Department of
Family Services and the United Way supported the programs and
activities offered by the Jwanzaa Youth Partnership.
Presently Jwanzaa is comprised of a Board of
Directors, an Executive Leadership Team, and a Youth Leadership
Council.
Jwanzaa is supported financially by charitable contributions
from Board Members, the Leadership Team, corporate sponsors,
state and local government agencies.
Moreover, our program is supported by a cadre
of skilled and dedicated volunteers.
Today, Jwanzaa serves ALL families in
Prince George's County with children
between the ages of 7 and 17; both male and female.
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