THE SCHOLAR: Vol. VIII "Celebrating 5 Years of Scholarship, Community, & Service (H.S. Edition)"

SCHOLAR

CEO’SNOTE

“You don’t need a lot to give… Just the willingness to share time, talents and Godly treasures with others.”

Hello, Scholars!

Welcome back to another edition of THE SCHOLAR.

This edition holds a special place in my heart.

DJF celebrates 5 amazing years of service in scholarship, community and legacy.

When we decided to establish DJF, who would have thought that we would be able to give over $9,000 in scholarships to more than 15 deserving students? Who would have that THE SCHOLAR would have over 7 editions to motivate and encourage future students like you to reach their fullest potentials?

The only thing I knew was that, “You don’t need a lot to give… Just the willingness to share time, talents and Godly treasures with others.”

I’m grateful to have been able to assist as the CEO of an amazing nonprofit that wants to leave an indelible mark on the world.

May this volume inspire you to always make a difference in the lives of others.

Here’s to another 5 years,

ZemoriaA.Johnson

Chief Executive Officer, DJF

DJFTURNS5...

Celebrating Scholarship, Community & Legacy

Honoring our Mission:

The DeBoles-Johnson Foundation, Inc., named in honor of both founding families, provides financial sup scholars ded improving th through edu their respect communitie service.

The Foundat exists to cre implement e programs to and inspire s abilities to c and ensure a future gener

Zemoria Johnson, CEO, PharmD.

DJF turns five! APRIL 18, 2024

DJF’S 2019 - 2023

On April 18, 2019, the DeBoles-Johnson Foundation was established.

Summer 2019, DJF’s Scholarship Committee unanimously voted to award Faith Thomas, with the firstscholarship award.

Scholarship A

Currently, Faith is studying at Tallahassee Community College to become a fire fighter.

After hearing about DJF, community members contributed and supported our cause, with many becoming Legacy Givers (donating $1,000 or more to support future scholarship awardees).

To date, DJF has awarded 15 students scholarships-totaling over $9,000.

Founding Family Members: Dr. Zemoria Johnson (Chief Executive Officer); David Johnson (Chief Financial Officer); Paula DeBolesJohnson (Secretary); Zenani D. Johnson (Member).

Class of 2019

Faith Thomas, Inagural Awardee

1st Place: $1,000

Class of 2020

Conqualla Scott 1st Place: $1,000

Jalin Gist 2nd Place: $500

Khaylah Hall 2nd Place: $500

Xavier Hammond

Eliza Jane Perry Book Scholar: $250

Class of 2021

Jaicee Gavin 1st Place: $1,000

Luisana Ortiz 2nd Place: $500

James Tinner

Eliza Jane Perry Book Scholar: $250

Class of 2022

Jayla Hostick

1st Place: $1,000

Tialeya Cowart

2nd Place: $750

Tanasha Jackson

Eliza Jane Perry Book Scholar: $250

Imani Walker

Curtis M. Crowther Book Scholar: $250

Class of 2023

Kaylin JeanLouis 1st Place: $1,000

Amaya Waymon 2nd Place: $750

Treyvious Copeland

Curtis M. Crowther Book Scholar: $250

Scan to support future scholars today!

CURTISM. CROWTHER

Book Scholarship Endowement

Created in 2022, the Curtis M. Crowther Book Scholarship Endowment was established to honor his life and legacy.

A student at the University of Florida’s College of Medicine, he was set to graduate with a doctorate in medicine in Spring 2022. His compassion and dedication to his faith, family, field w forgott

OCTOBER 29, 1995 – DECEMBER 15, 2019

THE SCHOLAR: PASTVOLUMES

THE SCHOLAR is a biannual publication intended to help and inspire collegebound students to achieve both academic & professional career success.

Volume 1 focuses on the topics of financial literacy, effective study habits, and offers advice for incoming freshmen.

Volume 2 focuses on the topics of successful matriculation from high school to college, the impact of each scholar's S.M.I.L.E. and presence, and introduces DJF's newest online resource, College Central.

Volume 3 topics include selfcare during COVID, what to expect freshman year in college, and success preparation. The DJF Class of 2021 scholarship recipients are also featured.

4 - MIND. BODY. SCHOLARSHIP.: HIGH SCHOOL EDITION

In this volume, highlighted topics include, why students should pursue a career in S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math). The recipe needed to practice self-care while balancing a hectic college life; and, the limitless opportunities ROTC offers.

5 - BLUEPRINT TO SUCCESS, PT. 2: COLLEGE EDITION

In this volume, topics covered include social media "do's and don'ts," and the importance of international traveling for African American students.

7 - BLUEPRINT TO SUCCESS, PT. 3 COLLEGE EDITION

In this Volume, topics covered include a story of perseverance from a university graduate who experienced the foster care system. Also, how to be intentional with time, and the keys needed to make all 'A's' and submit winning scholarship applications.

The DJF Class of 2023 scholarship recipients are also featured.

6 - SCHOLASTIC LEADERSHIP WITH SERVICE: HIGH SCHOOL EDITION

Inspiring featured programs include: TCC's Sister-to-Sister Mentoring Program, Kaylin's Caring Konnection, & The Girl Flo. The approaching summer season calls for another edition of DJF's Scholarship Hub with recommended reads to prepare for a successful collegiate experience.

College Central:

DJF's One-Stop Resource For All Things College! Online tool for aspiring college students. Provided links include information on financial literacy, volunteering, SAT/ACT preparation, & the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FASFA). Link to College Central!

“WE MAKE A LIVING BY WHAT WE GET, BUT WE MAKE A LIFE BY WHAT WE GIVE.”

CHURCHILL

WINSTON

CLASSROOM CONNECTION

At Sealey Elementary

To further extend our reach, DJF Board Members elected to support Leon County Schools as a 2023-24 Classroom Connection Sponsor. DJF has had the privilege of serving Ms. Kelly’s Kindergarten Class through reading and meeting additional monetary classroom needs. Also, helped sponsor the entire Kindergarten Classes’ Field Trip!

WE BUILD OUR LEGACY PIECE BY PIECE, AND MAYBE THE WHOLE WORLD WILL REMEMBER YOU OR MAYBE JUST A COUPLE OF PEOPLE, BUT YOU DO WHAT YOU CAN TO MAKE SURE YOU'RE STILL AROUND AFTER YOU'RE GONE.

DAVID LOWERY

2023 PHILANTHRO PISTSOFTHE YEAR

On Nov. 15, 2023, the Florida Big Bend Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) selected the DJF Board Members as the AFP Big Bend Chapter's Philanthropists of the Year.

National Philanthropy Day stands as an annual event that brings together individuals, organizations, and community leaders to recognize and celebrate the incredible impact of philanthropy.

The event holds special significance as it highlights the exceptional work of philanthropic leaders who have consistently gone above and beyond to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

DJF Board Members

DJF Board Members, Donors, & Community Supporters

Get Excited About Your HEALTH: A Teen’s Guide to Practicing Wellness

BY: DR. CANDICEE CHILDS, MD, MHA, NASM-CNC, NASM-CPT

Hey there, teens! Welcome to this exciting guide to help you learn the power and importance of taking care of YOU! Your body can do so many incredible things, even without you always knowing it, to keep you going from day to day. Healthy eating and practicing wellness are vital to a better life and it does not have to be boring!

The healthy habits you practice now can lead to living a longer, more satisfying life. Sure, it is easy to grab a bag of chips or stay up all night scrolling on your phone while you lose precious sleep. But fear not! In this blog, we will discuss the simple, yet impactful changes to your lifestyle that can help you feel energized, focused, and ready to take on the world!

You can use the mnemonic HEALTH to help you remember these neat tips and tricks towards healthy eating and practicing wellness.

“Try to be consistent in building good, positive habits and incorporate them into your daily choices. “

- Dr. Childs

habits daily. Try to be consistent in building good, positive habits and incorporate them into your daily choices. For instance, a good habit to start is exercising at least 30 minutes a day. You can find ways to move your body every day by working out, walking, or getting involved with extracurriculars or sports.

2. Eat REAL Food

Essentially, it's about eating a balanced diet that provides your body with the nutrients it needs to function at its best. This includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Want a snack? Try some yogurt, cheese sticks, fruit, veggies, or nuts! Occasionally, you can have your favorite slice of pizza or enjoy your favorite dessert. However, I suggest eating what you enjoy every once in a while and focusing on eating healthy most days of the week. Enjoy your favorite foods in moderation!

3. Aim For Eight

Sleep is very IMPORTANT! It is the downtime you need to let your body rest and process all the things you are learning from day to day. In addition to healthy eating, getting an adequate amount of sleep is essential for your well-being. Aim for 8-10 hours of quality sleep each night. Try to sleep every night at the same time (put your phone or game consoles away) and don’t sleep in too long on the weekends. Good sleep hygiene will help you feel refreshed and have a better mood!

4. Listen to Your Body

One of the most important aspects of practicing wellness is learning to listen to your body. Pay attention to how different foods, relationships, and experiences make you feel. Do you feel sluggish and tired after indulging in a greasy burger? Do you feel drained dealing with certain relationships? Are you feeling down and am not sure how to feel better? Your body will often give you cues about what it needs, so be sure to tune in and pay attention. Eat healthier foods, set boundaries in relationships, and seek out help from a counselor or doctor to help you get the care you need for your mental health.

5. Take Time for Yourself

Enjoy that video game, go to the movies, visit a close friend, read your favorite book, and participate in positive activities that make you feel joyful. I enjoy taking time out of my day to pray or watch my favorite movie! Life does not always have to be about the serious stuff like school or work! Be sure to take a moment daily to do something that helps you unwind and relax. Take care of your spiritual health as well as your physical and mental health.

6. Harness Your Balance

Although as a teen you may not have as many responsibilities as an adult, you're probably still under a lot of pressure to handle many things that deal with school, college prep, sports, part-time jobs, helping your family, etc. It can certainly feel very overwhelming. Try to set priorities, aim to accomplish a few things but not too many at once, pay attention to your feelings, and set goals that are realistic for you to meet. If you need help dealing with stress, talk to a parent, teacher, or counselor to ask for ways to help you.

In conclusion, as you live your life, remember the mnemonic HEALTH to help you on your journey towards healthier eating and practicing wellness. It does not have to be perfect, but it is all about daily progress towards your personal goals. Forming good habits by making small, consistent changes over time can lead to significant improvements in your overall health and well-being. So, fuel your body with nutritious foods, listen to its signals, and prioritize taking care of YOU. Your future self will be grateful and will thank you for it!

About the Author

Dr Candicee Childs is an emerging beacon of inspiration in the fields of medicine and literature, currently honing her skills as a resident doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School in Boston, MA with a focus on child and adolescent psychiatry. Her work, including the Amazon bestseller Christian memoir "Lemons, Lemonade, and the Lemonade Stand," reflects her passion for living life with purpose and making a positive impact on those around her. Dr. Childs is not only a medical professional and author, but she is also a public speaker, model, fitness enthusiast, and mentor. She has given several speeches for many occasions and events including TEDxSavannah in 2023 where she discussed embracing empathy while also protecting your own mental wellness Dr Childs' multifaceted career is driven by a mission to uplift and empower others, whether it be through her impactful speeches, insightful books, or great patient care Her hometown is the beautiful city of Savannah, Ga. She has three degrees: a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry with a minor in Spanish from Valdosta State University, a Master of Health Administration degree from Georgia Southern University, and a Doctor of Medicine degree from Augusta University - Medical College of Georgia. She also has two certifications in nutrition and personal training from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. In her spare time, she enjoys working with youth, visiting art museums, reading, attending church, roller skating and spending time with family and friends. Over the years she has been awarded several accolades including Groves High School Class Salutatorian, Savannah Chatham County Public School System Superintendent Award recipient, 2015 VSU Blazer Leader of the Year, two-time Master Georgia 4-Her, VSU Distinguished Woman of Excellence, MCG Gold Humanism Honor Society recipient, over 20+ scholarships and a recent nomination for the VSU Alumni Association Graduate of the Last Decade (G.O.L.D) and the Distinguished Alumni Awards.

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Mykayla Graham - Booker High School (Sarasota, FL)

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THE DEBOLES-JOHNSON FOUNDATION, INC., EXTENDS ITS GREATEST GRATITUDE TO EVERY CONTRIBUTOR, DONOR AND SUPPORTER OVER THE LAST 5 YEARS. WE COULD NOT HAVE GOTTEN THIS FAR WITHOUT EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU!