LETTER FROM THE
CEO & BOARD CHAIR
Barbra Kavanaugh Interim CEO
Blake Osner Board Chair
As we reflect on our 30th year, it's evident that the 'JASMYN way' has paved the way for the bright future that lies ahead. The 'JASMYN way' is about investing in our ple, whether it's the youth we serve, our employees, unteers, or community partners. Our mission is to power LGBTQIA+ young people to reach their full ential. This mission is not just a goal, but a guiding nciple that shapes every interaction the organization . Our unwavering commitment to positive change and wth is what defines the 'JASMYN way.'
s past year, we mightily embraced change and our lution as our founding CEO, Cindy Watson, set her retirement date for January 1, 2024, and we began our planned leadership change. Our planning for this pivotal moment was intentional and purposeful, filled with the emotions of saying goodbye to a driving force while continuing the concept of change for the better at our organization.
While this leadership shift was happening behind the our programs continued to thrive under the hip of a team dedicated to the sustainability and on of this safe place. Our Mental Health and g Support teams gained new Directors. Our Services team expanded its community outreach. N was able to continue a program designed to ums for future positions at the organization. As en and Family Initiatives moved into Mental Health s, we continued to provide vital community g for teens and families.
his writing, our national search for JASMYN's next nent CEO is underway. We are certain that our nancial foundation, reputation for quality and ssionate service, impeccable Board talent, and ed staff will attract exactly the right person to e the 30-year legacy we celebrate this year.
you for being part of our continuing journey N could only have developed into its current state being and ability to serve so many LGBTQIA+ y g people with your support and ongoing advocacy. We are grateful to our employees, volunteers, community partners, and supporters and all who comprise this amazing organization
2023 COMMUNITY REACH
JASMYN supports the empowerment of LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults through leadership, advocacy, resources, and a safe and affirming community.
TEEN & FAMILY TEEN & FAMILY PROGRAMMING PROGRAMMING
LGBTQIA+ teens’ and young adults’ identities, aspirations and contributions are valued and affirmed. VISION
HEALTH SERVICES
Trained in trauma-informed care, JASMYN’s Health Services team emphasizes cultural humility and representation. Collaborating with community partners, we provide comprehensive health education and work to reduce disparities, ensuring LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults feel safe, supported, and empowered to manage their health.
SERVICES INCLUDE:
HIV Testing & Linkage
PrEP Services
STI Clinic
Care Coordination
Youth Leadership Support
MENTAL
HEALTH
To address the higher rates of anxiety and depression among LGBTQIA+ youth, JASMYN offers affirming mental health services, including therapy and social support groups. With queer-identified counselors who understand their unique challenges, young people quickly build trust and begin healing. JASMYN connects them with compassionate providers and peers, ensuring they feel supported and part of a caring community.
SERVICES INCLUDE:
Onsite Mental Health Drop-in
Tele-Counseling
Queer-Identified Counselors
Referral to Partner Agencies
HOUSING SERVICES
JASMYN provides vital housing resources and support services for everyone in a space that is uniquely sensitive and responsive to LGBTQIA+ young adults (1829), youth of color, and those facing life challenges. Our programs offer low-barrier day shelter services including a food pantry, computer lab and more. We also provide temporary financial assistance to ensure our community has the support it needs to navigate housing challenges.
SERVICES INCLUDE:
Rapid Rehousing Program Rental Assistance
ACCESS Daily Drop-In & Food Pantry Shower & Laundry Suites Care Coordination
TEEN & FAMILY PROGRAMMING
JASMYN creates safe spaces where queer teens can connect, form friendships, and find mentorship. Our teen space reflects their personalities and offers visibility through queer and trans role models on staff.
SERVICES INCLUDES:
GSA Support Drop-In Programs
Alternative Prom Leadership Training
Family Support
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Our engagement efforts ensure that JASMYN remains a visible and vital resource for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. In 2023, we continued to foster community engagement through our signature events and year-round outreach efforts. The 17th Annual Coming Out Day Breakfast brought together allies and advocates to celebrate LGBTQIA+ identities and support our mission. The 12th Annual Strides for Pride event also saw incredible participation, raising awareness and funds for our programs through a joyful and unifying celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Beyond these key events, our team remained active in the community, participating in numerous tabling events and outreach activities. These efforts allowed us to connect with individuals, provide resources, and raise awareness about JASMYN’s work throughout the year.
REVENUE: TOTAL REVENUE: $2,500,701 $2,500,701
Michelle Tappouni, Shane Williams, Barbara Drake, Cindy Watson,
Chair Vice Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
Chasity Bell
CLaura Lane,
Chair
Barbara Barrett
Dr. Joe Barton
Susan Cochran
Dr. PeDro Cohen
Dr. Jim Crooks
Cookie Davis
Barbara Drake
Chante Engram
Leslie Ford
LCharles Garrison
Susan Greene
Garnett Harrison, Esq.
Lolita Hill
Robert Hudson
Kelly James
Spero Krevatas
Michael Meyers
Brian Wolfburg
Jimmy Midyette, Esq.
Michael Miller
Ben Neal
Dottie Nutant
Gerry Orton
Sue Osborne
David Rinzler
Frieda Saraga
Dr. Paul Schilling
Chet Wilkinson
Dr. Richmond Wynn
DONOR DONOR SSPOTLIGHT POTLIGHT
Donors like the Patel family understand it takes all of us to make sure the youth in our community feel seen and supported. Their commitment to JASMYN is fueled by the deep belief that every young person deserves love, acceptance, and safety. As parents themselves, Becky and Rakesh Patel are passionate about helping all young people, but particularly LGBTQIA+ youth. They know the unique challenges our JASMYN youth face and are committed to ensuring that no child feels alone or unsupported.
Their involvement extends far beyond their generous financial donations; the Patels actively participate in community events like Strides for Pride and the Pride Parade, as well as rally their friends and neighbors, organizing drives to collect essential items for JASMYN’s pantry. The Patels view JASMYN as a critical resource for LGBTQIA+ youth in Northeast Florida, offering not only services but a sense of belonging. By supporting JASMYN, they aim to build a more inclusive future and set an example of kindness and equality for their children, Jaden and Malana. They understand the “JASMYN way ” and that we are all investing in and empowering the future leaders of our community.
They, along with their rescue dog Buttercup, hope their story inspires others to join them in creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
To explore how you can support JASMYN's mission, please reach out to us at development@jasmyn.org. development@jasmyn.org.
To explore how you can support JASMYN's mission, please reach out to us at
“JASMYN taught me how to be more myself. They brought me “JASMYN taught me how to be more myself. They brought me out of a dark place and brought me around a lot of out of a dark place and brought me around a lot of individuals who were filled with love and light. They helped individuals who were filled with love and light. They helped me build friendships with other like-minded individuals and I me build friendships with other like-minded individuals and I got to work with staff that loved what they did and really got to work with staff that loved what they did and really wanted to see me succeed. If it weren’t for JASMYN, I don’t wanted to see me succeed. If it weren’t for JASMYN, I don’t know where I would be.” know where I would be.”
Zy’Aire Kelly Zy’Aire Kelly JASMYN Alumni JASMYN
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Help us continue to provide a Safe Place in Jacksonville for LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults.
