SUPPORTERS, PARTNERS, AND COMMUNITY
Each year,
we take a moment to pause, reflect, and truly feel the impact of what we’ve built together - and 2024 stands out as a testament to what is possible when a community believes deeply in its young people. This year, more than 3,000 students across 47 Title I high schools stepped into JKL programs ready to move their bodies, strengthen their minds, and open their hearts. And every day, they reminded us why this work matters.
Through our four pillars - fitness, nutrition, community service, and wellness - we created spaces where students learned to care for themselves and one another. In after-school gyms and on outdoor trails, they discovered strength they didn’t know they had. In our nutrition sessions, they learned how fueling their bodies affects their confidence, their energy, and their ability to show up in the world. During community service projects, they saw the difference one act of kindness can make. And through wellness and gratitude practices, they uncovered tools for resilience that will carry them far beyond high school.
These moments - big and small - are shaping a generation of young people who know how to take care of their bodies, calm their minds, find their voices, and lift each other up. They are learning to lead with compassion, courage, and intention. They are learning that they matter.
This year also marked milestones that deepened our impact. From our students advocating in Washington, D.C., to the continued success of the Greenlights Grant Initiative, which helped unlock vital funding for school safety and mental health, 2024 proved that young people thrive when communities invest in their potential. Together, we’re not only empowering students inside our programswe’re helping schools across the country become safer, more supportive places for all kids.
At the heart of everything we do is gratitude - a daily practice shared in every JKL classroom. Gratitude has the power to shift perspective, build connection, and ground us in what truly matters. As we reflect on this past year, gratitude is exactly what we feel for the people who make our mission possible: our incredible instructors, our staff, our leadership, our school partners, our generous donors, our corporate partners, our board, and every individual who believes in the work of the just keep livin Foundation.
Because of you, students are finding hope, belonging, purpose, and joy. Because of you, they are learning how to move forward with confidence and resilience. Because of you, they are becoming leaders in their schools, in their families, and in their communities.
As we look toward 2025, we’re excited to continue growing, expanding, and reaching even more students with the tools that help them thrive - physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Thank you for standing with us, for empowering our youth, and for helping us build a brighter future together.
In the meantime, and all times, just keep livin
CAMILA AND MATTHEW M c CONAUGHEY
MISSION
The just keep livin Foundation was founded by Camila and Matthew McConaughey with the mission to empower high school students by providing them with the tools to lead active lives and make healthy choices for a better future.
OUR FOUR PILLARS
“The thing I love about JKL is that I can express myself without being judged by my peers.”
A’LASIA
HANNA
ABOUT
The just keep livin Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students through after-school programs in 47 Title 1 high schools across the country. Our mission is to help young people make positive life choices that strengthen both their physical and mental well-being.
Through a focus on fitness, nutrition, wellness, teamwork, gratitude and community service, we provide a safe and supportive environment where students can thrive. With guidance from fitness coaches and health experts, participants build healthy habits, gain confidence, and develop resilience.
The impact goes beyond physical health – students improve their grades, attendance, and behavior while forming lasting friendships and overcoming fears. At JKL, we believe in giving our students the tools to be self-reliant and the confidence to create a brighter future. Healthy choices today lead to a better tomorrow.
Student Spotlight!
Kelly Navarro
My name is Kelly Navarro, and I’m an 11th-grader at L.G. Pinkston High School in Dallas. I found just keep livin (JKL) almost by accident - what started as a distraction during a tough season quickly became the place I looked forward to every week. In JKL, I felt seen, supported, and challenged to grow in ways I never expected. At home, emotions weren’t something we talked about, and I used to believe my feelings didn’t matter. When high school pressure began to build, JKL gave me a safe space to speak up, be honest, and learn tools that help me manage stress, make healthier choices, and build stronger relationships. Even on days when I feel misunderstood, I know my JKL family is in my corner - and that support means everything.
Movement became my entry point to feeling better, inside and out. Whether we’re exercising together after school or pacing ourselves through a circuit, I’ve discovered how small, consistent habits build confidence. The more I showed up for myself physically - breathing deeper, standing a little taller, trying one more rep - the more I believed I could handle whatever else the day brought. I didn’t
expect to love the nutrition lessons as much as I do, but learning how to balance a plate, read labels, and fuel for energy changed the way I treat my body. It isn’t about perfection; it’s about paying attention. Caring for myself means I can show up ready for school, activities, and the people I love.
Some of my favorite moments happen when we serve others. At an Easter event, I volunteered to be the bunny and take photos with kids. Some were shy, some were loud, and a few were scared of the costume - but seeing their smiles reminded me how powerful small moments of joy can be. That day taught me that service isn’t complicated; it’s choosing to show up with a kind heart and noticing the people right in front of you. Gratitude has also changed me. I used to focus on what I didn’t have; now I notice the little things that matter most. I brought that practice home - my family and I share what we’re grateful for each day - and those short conversations have brought us closer together.
Before JKL, I let other people decide who I was. I didn’t feel confident, and I worried too much about what others thought. Through this program, I’ve found my voice. I learned that my thoughts and feelings matter - and that I deserve to love who I am. The friendships I’ve made here are some of the best in my life. We come from different backgrounds, but we show up for each other - on field trips, during tough weeks, and in the everyday momentsand that’s where my confidence really grew.
JKL is helping me imagine a future that feels true to me. I plan to go to college, study law, and become a lawyer so I can stand with people when they need it most. This program showed me that everyone deserves support and a chance to change their life for the better - and I want to be part of that change. I’m grateful to Camila and Matthew McConaughey for creating a program that has changed so many lives, including mine. JKL didn’t just help me get through high school; it helped me become the kind of person I want to be - stronger in body, clearer in mind, kinder to others, and more hopeful about what comes next.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS
At the heart of our after-school program are four key components: NUTRITION, FITNESS, WELLNESS, AND COMMUNITY SERVICE.
1. NUTRITION
The Challenge: Across the United States, approximately 21.2% of adolescents aged 12-19 are affected by obesity, a condition closely linked to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Studies show that most teens are not following healthy dietary patterns – poor diet quality during adolescence is among the worst across all age groups.
The Prescription: By introducing our students to a balanced diet and teaching nutrition in an interactive, hands-on way, we equip them with practical knowledge to make healthier choices that are both budget-friendly and accessible. Many of our students take these lessons beyond the classroom – sharing what they’ve learned with their families and friends, creating a ripple effect of positive change in their communities.
92% of JKL students make healthier nutritional choices
RECIPES
LEARNING
How to safely use weights and exercise equipment
GOAL SETTING
Setting and achieving realistic fitness goals
2. FITNESS
TEAM BUILDING
Group sports and activities that foster connection and teamwork
INSTRUCTION
Guided workouts like yoga, circuits, and 5K training
The Challenge: Nearly 76% of U.S. high school students fail to meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, increasing their risk for obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and mental health challenges like anxiety and depression.
The Prescription: JKL combats this trend by providing fun, structured fitness sessions – sports, circuits, and team challenges – helping students build confidence, stay active, and make exercise a lifelong habit.
96% of JKL students get more exercise
3. WELLNESS
The Challenge: About 40% of U.S. high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and 20% seriously considered suicide – highlighting a national mental health crisis during adolescence.
The Prescription: JKL combats this crisis through weekly well-being sessions blending mindfulness, gratitude circles, stress-management techniques, and peer support – empowering students with tools to improve mental resilience, reduce isolation, and foster a positive community.
GRATITUDE CIRCLE
Students share what they’re grateful for
GUEST SPEAKERS
Inspiring leaders and professionals share stories and advice to motivate students
JOURNALING
A safe space for self-reflection, goal-setting, and managing stress through writing
CONNECTION
Building meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging through activities and support
100% of JKL students make healthier nutritional choices
4. COMMUNITY SERVICE
The Challenge: Many students lack opportunities to engage in meaningful service that not only benefits their communities but also strengthens their own personal growth and well-being.
The Prescription: Integrating community service as a core pillar fosters gratitude, empathy, and leadership –helping students grow personally while contributing to a cycle of giving that strengthens both themselves and the community. Our students are encouraged to adopt a “pay it forward” mindset by giving back to their communities while receiving support through JKL programming.
94%
7,200+ of JKL students participate in more community service events hours of service performed each year BEAUTIFICATION
Create welcoming spaces with respected local partners CLEANUPS
Campus and community cleanups in public spaces CARE PACKAGES
Spreading kindness by assembling essentials for those in need
HOLIDAYS
Packing holiday food boxes with regional food banks
OUR CURRICULUM
Our just keep livin Foundation curriculum, created in partnership with Scholastic, is designed to empower high school students by promoting healthy choices and personal development. Our program focuses on four key pillars: nutrition, fitness, wellness and community service. Through our programs, students engage in physical activities to improve their health and well-being, learn about balanced nutrition and healthy eating habits, participate in community service projects to foster a sense of giving back, and practice gratitude to build a positive mindset.
The curriculum aims to build life skills, increase confidence, and provide a supportive environment that encourages students to succeed academically and personally.
MONTHLY QUOTES
Each month, the just keep livin Foundation shares a signature quote crafted directly by our founder, Matthew McConaughey. These messages offer students a dose of wisdom, creative insight, and heartfelt inspiration – encouraging them to pause, reflect, and stay grounded in gratitude and growth. Matthew’s words are written with intention, reminding our students that no matter where they are on their journey, they have the power to learn, lead, and just keep livin.
COMMUNITIES SERVED
46 PROGRAMS IN 20 CITIES ACROSS THE UNITED STATES
ALABAMA PROGRAMS (1)
Lee High School - Huntsville City Schools
CALIFORNIA PROGRAMS
(13)
Animo City of Champions - Los Angeles
Animo Inglewood Charter High School - Los Angeles
Animo South Los Angeles Charter High School
- Los Angeles
Fairfax High School - Los Angeles
Fremont High School - Los Angeles
Hamilton High School - Los Angeles
Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) - Los Angeles
Huntington Park High School - Los Angeles
Morse High School - San Diego
South East High School - Los Angeles
Russell Westbrook Why Not Charter High School
- Los Angeles
Venice High School - Los Angeles
West Adams High School - Los Angeles
GEORGIA PROGRAMS
(1)
East Laurens High School - Dublin
ILLINOIS PROGRAMS
Northtown Academy - Chicago
(2)
Ralph Ellison High School - Chicago
LOUISIANA PROGRAMS
(4)
Collegiate Baton Rouge - Baton Rouge
Eleanor McMain Secondary School
- New Orleans
Lord Beaconsfield Landry High School
- New Orleans
Warren Easton Charter High School
- New Orleans
NEW YORK PROGRAMS (2)
Brooklyn School for Social Justice - Brooklyn High School for Innovation in Advertising & Media - Brooklyn
NORTH CAROLINA PROGRAMS (1)
West Charlotte High School - Charlotte
OHIO PROGRAMS
(2)
Glenville High School - Cleveland
John Adams High School - Cleveland
TENNESSEE PROGRAMS
(4)
Hillwood High School - Nashville
KIPP Collegiate High School - Nashville
Maplewood High School - Nashville
Stratford High School - Nashville
TEXAS PROGRAMS (14)
Akins High School - Austin
Boys and Girls Club - Austin
Carver High School - Houston
Cesar Chavez High School - Houston
Crockett High School - Austin
East Austin College Prep - Austin
Eastern Hills - Fort Worth
Juan Navarro High School - Austin
Longview High School - Longview
North Crowley High School - Crowley
Pinkston High School - Dallas
Sam Houston High School - Arlington
Sunset High School - Dallas
Uvalde High School - Uvalde
WASHINGTON D.C. PROGRAMS (3)
Anacostia High School - Washington, DC
Ballou High School - Washington, DC
Roosevelt High School - Washington, DC
PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS
The just keep livin Foundation is fueled not only by strong programs, but by the remarkable partners who stand beside our students every step of the way. These individuals, organizations, and corporate teams do far more than fund our work - they open doors. They create opportunities for our youth to grow personally and professionally, and they make experiences possible that many students never imagined they would have.
Because of their generosity, our students take their first airplane rides, visit new cities, attend professional sporting events, explore career paths, and volunteer in their communities for the very first time. These moments expand their world, build confidence, and show them what’s possible beyond the limits of their circumstances.
Our partners give their time, resources, and expertise with open hearts. They share their networks, invite students into new spaces, and help us ensure that every JKL participant feels supported, inspired, and seen. JKL would not be what it is without these extraordinary collaborators who believe in our mission and invest deeply in our youth.
We are profoundly grateful for their commitment. Together, we are shaping stronger futures, one experience - and one student - at a time.
Dr.
Golf
(David & Debbie Preisler)
William Knox Holt Foundation Jim Toth
PROGRAM BUDGET
TOTAL $35,000
PROGRAM BUDGET BREAKDOWN
PERSONNEL
Fitness/Wellness Coach/Supervision
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
TEACHER TRAINING
/BONUS/OUTSIDE SERVICES
Yoga teachers, fitness instructors, bonuses, etc.
SUPPLIES/MATERIALS
Equipment, maintenance, etc.
T-shirts, journals, wristbands
Supplies for recipes - local farmers markets, groceries, healthy food options, etc.
FIELD TRIPS/PROGRAM
EVENTS/SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
End of semester events - buses, food, drinks, etc. Races & extra activities - registration, etc.
PUBLICITY/PROMOTION
Banners, posters, printing, etc.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
At least 2 projects per semesterbuses, food, drinks, etc.
STUDENT DEMOGRAPHICS
CHART LEGEND
9TH GRADE
10TH GRADE
11TH GRADE
12TH GRADE
GENDER PER GRADE LEVEL:
• 9th Grade: 39% Female; 32% Male
• 10th Grade: 63% Female; 34% Male
• 11th Grade: 51% Female; 41% Male; 2% Non-binary
• 12 th Grade: 54% Female; 39% Male; 2% Non-binary
PARTICIPANT BY GRADE LEVEL:
• 9th Grade: 20%
• 10th Grade: 27%
• 11th Grade: 26%
• 12 th Grade: 27%
TOP 10 ETHNICITY:
• Hispanic: 58%
• African American/Black: 33%
• Caucasian/White: 6%
• Asian: 2%
• Other/Multiracial/2+ Races/American Indian: 1%
CHART LEGEND
HISPANIC
AFRICAN AMERICAN/BLACK
CAUCASIAN/WHITE
ASIAN
OTHER/MULTIRACIAL/2+ RACES/AMERICAN INDIAN
2024-2025
25,000+
TOTAL YOUTH SERVED SINCE INCEPTION
17 PROGRAM SPONSORS
47 LOCATIONS
103 JKL INSTRUCTORS
185+ FIELD TRIPS
• OF JKL STUDENTS STAYED IN SCHOOL
• OF 12TH GRADE JKL STUDENTS GRADUATED (*MANY OF THE SCHOOLS WE SERVE HAVE A 50% DROP OUT RATE)
• IMPROVED THEIR BEHAVIOR
• NOTE THAT JKL HAS HELPED THEM CREATE NEW, POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS AND REDUCE STRESS AND ANXIETY IN THEIR EVERYDAY LIFE
97%
• INCREASED SHOWING DAILY GRATITUDE
94%
• IMPROVED OR MAINTAINED THEIR GRADES
• MADE HEALTHIER CHOICES 100%
• PARTICIPATED IN MORE COMMUNITY SERVICE EVENTS
96%
• GOT MORE EXERCISE
92%
• IMPROVED THEIR ATTENDANCE
Abi,
a senior at Juan Navarro Early College High School in Austin, Texas, is a proud member of JKL whose journey reflects perseverance, quiet determination, and the life - changing impact of community.
Raised in a single -income household with his two brothers, Abi returned to Austin at the age of five and grew up navigating financial hardship and limited access to opportunities. These challenges often left him feeling isolated, unsure of where he fit in or how to move forward.
Everything began to shift when he discovered basketball in middle school. What started as an interest quickly became a source of structure, motivation, and belonging - something he could count on to keep him grounded academically and emotionally.
Abi’s life took a meaningful turn during his sophomore year when he joined just keep livin (JKL). Through mentorship, fitness, understanding healthy nutrition, and a supportive environment, Abi began building confidence and healthy habits that reached far beyond the program. One moment he holds close was preparing a healthy, budget-friendly home - cooked meal for his family using lessons from JKL. That simple act created connection in a home where conversations sometimes felt out of reach and strengthened bonds that had long been strained.
“JKL didn’t just give me activities - it gave me support when I needed it most and reminded me that I’m not alone.”
— Abi, JKL Student
In his senior year, Abi faced yet another setback: he was unable to return to basketball due to incomplete physical therapy after ACL surgerytreatment he had to pause because of financial barriers. But during a JKL guest speaker event, he experienced an unexpected full- circle moment: he reconnected with members of his former medical team. That chance encounter reopened the door for him to receive the therapy he needed and continue healing, reinforcing the power of perseverance, advocacy, and community support.
JKL also became a lifeline during moments of profound grief. After losing two peers to gun violence, Abi leaned on the program’s compassionate environment to process his emotions, build coping skills, and support classmates who were hurting. In those moments, JKL became more than an after-school program - it became a family. A place where students felt safe, seen, and supported through the hardest of circumstances.
Today, Abi steps forward with resilience, hope, and a belief in his own potential. His story is a testament to the heart of just keep livin: showing up for young people, helping them rise through adversity, and reminding them that their circumstances do not define their future.
SERVICES
GRANT WRITING SUPPORT
Assisted 30 school districts at no cost
Enabled submission of 35 grant applications
Paired five districts with expert grant writing teams for full or partial application support
Provided pro-bono services through partnerships with universities like Arizona State and NYU
GRANTSMANSHIP TRAINING
Trained 2,000+ administrators through webinars and resources
Hosted nine webinars covering topics such as:
• Federal Grant Writing 101
• Building Budgets & Logic Models
• DOJ, SAMHSA, and DOE-specific grants
UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS
Collaborated with five universities to expand grant writing capacity for local districts
• Arizona State University
• George Washington University
• Oklahoma State University
• New York University
• University of North Dakota
ADVOCACY
Worked with bipartisan legislators to introduce the CARE for Student Mental Health Act Helped secure $74 million supplemental funding for DOE mental health programs
KEY OUTCOMES
MISSOURI CASE STUDY
GGI invested $50,000 to support Stronger Connections Grant applications
Secured $1.1 million+ in school safety funding for high-need districts
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION GRANTS
Supported four districts in applying for School-Based Mental Health Services Grants (up to $3 million each)
Assisted with 21st Century Learning Community Centers grants for academic enrichment
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE GRANTS
Provided writing support for 20+ districts applying for STOP School Violence and COPS programs (up to $1M and $500K per award)
GGI remains committed to expanding its reach, equipping schools with resources to create safer environments and improve student mental health.
By leveraging partnerships and advocacy, we aim to continue breaking down barriers to funding and delivering life-changing support for students across the country.
Academy Sports + Outdoors JKL Holiday Give back
On Saturday, December 7th, 50 of our JKL students and their families gathered for a heartwarming Winter Giveaway celebration, made possible through our partnership with Academy Sports + Outdoors in Austin. The morning was filled with festive cheer, breakfast, prize giveaways, and holiday excitement! Each student was thrilled to receive a brand-new bike and helmet, courtesy of Academy Sports’ generous donation. We are incredibly grateful for their support in making this event so special for our community!
American Airlines Community Service
In November, American Airlines and Citi partnered with JKL for an end-ofyear volunteer initiative supporting Crockett High School, with additional impact reaching Akins High School in Austin, TX. A dedicated team of 65 employee volunteers completed a large-scale campus beautification project, contributing fresh paint to railings, doors, and walls; clearing and revitalizing garden areas; removing unused tree stakes; and conducting a full campus cleanup.
Their efforts created a more welcoming, vibrant environment for students across both schools. We are deeply grateful for our continued partnership with American Airlines and the meaningful difference their team helps make in our JKL communities.
Mack, Jack & McConaughey Gala Raises Over
Mack, Jack & McConaughey Annual Gala
• Each spring, the Mack, Jack & McConaughey (MJ&M) gala brings together generosity, entertainment, and purpose in one unforgettable celebration. The joint fundraising effort by Academy Award-winning actor and philanthropist Matthew McConaughey, ACM Awardwinning recording artist Jack Ingram, and coaching legend Mack Brown, MJ&M is a two-day event dedicated to empowering youth and strengthening communities.
• Filled with music, golf, and fashion experiences, MJ&M raises critical funds for five incredible nonprofit partners: the just keep livin Foundation, Cure Duchenne, Dell Children’s Medical Center, HeartGift, and the Rise School of Austin. Each organization plays a vital role in improving the lives of children and families, and MJ&M amplifies that impact by uniting supporters from across the country.
• The 2024 gala was headlined by the incredible Luke Combs, whose performance brought the audience to its feet and set the tone for an inspiring evening. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our donors, sponsors, and community, MJ&M raised over $16 million, strengthening our collective ability to create safer, healthier, and more hopeful futures for young people.
Branch to Hope Mental Health Wellness Day
Pickleball Expansion Across
JKL Programs
Pickleball continued to thrive across our JKL programs this year thanks to impactful partnerships and engaging activations. Highlights included the annual NOLA Pickleball Fest in collaboration with the Brees Dream Foundation, a series of Pickleball Cares field days and enrichment experiences, and a generous contribution from Just Courts, which donated two permanent pickleball courts to support our New Orleans and Dallas programs. These collective efforts have expanded access to the sport, strengthened community engagement, and provided students with new opportunities to stay active and connected.
During the Spring 2024 semester, we partnered with The Defensive Line, the Faith Fight Finish Foundation, Hayden’s Corner, and Branch to Hope to host a Mental Health Wellness Day in Dallas, Texas, serving more than 50 students from JKL and the Prescott Leadership Academy of Youth (PLAY) program. The event centered on holistic well-being through a series of hands- on and reflective activities - including journaling, deep breathing exercises, fishing, building birdhouses for a local community center, and participating in a gratitude circle. Together, these experiences created meaningful space for connection, creativity, and emotional growth.
CorePower Yoga
We proudly expanded our partnership with CorePower Yoga (CPY) in Spring 2024, building on the successful launch of in-studio hot yoga classes offered to JKL students and staff in Texas and California. Through this collaboration, students gained access to transformative wellness experiences both online and through in-studio field trips, supporting stress relief, mindfulness, and physical well-being.
As the partnership grew, it reached an exciting milestone: CorePower Yoga awarded full scholarships to three JKL alumni and three JKL teachers to participate in CPY’s renowned Teacher Training program. This investment reflects a shared commitment to empowering members of the JKL community with tools to deepen their practice, build confidence, and eventually share the benefits of yoga with others.
The six scholarship recipients will begin their training journey this summer— marking a meaningful step forward in their personal growth, professional development, and long-term wellness.
We are incredibly proud of the following scholarship recipients:
Kenya Wade, JKL Instructor – Brooklyn School for Social Justice
Elizabeth Ross, JKL Instructor – Longview High School
Joanna Carrillo, JKL Instructor – Ánimo South LA Charter High School
Gerardo Gomez, JKL Alum (Class of 2023)
Gaby Carter, JKL Instructor – LB Landry High School & JKL Alum
Juan Guerrero, JKL Alum (Class of 2015)
Kevin Love Fund x JKL Mental Health Screening & Workshop
On September 10th, fifty JKL students from Ánimo Inglewood and Ánimo South Los Angeles visited the Sony Pictures lot for a special screening of The Spider Within: A Spider-Verse Story and an intimate conversation with NBA player Kevin Love and film director Jarelle Dampier. Both Kevin and Jarelle shared openly about challenging moments in their lives and their experiences navigating anxiety, offering students powerful examples of vulnerability, resilience, and self-awareness.
Following the screening, Teaching Artist Cat Marcel from the Kevin Love Fund guided students through a hands-on activity from the Fund’s free, evidence-based mental health curriculum. Students were encouraged to write or draw about a difficult personal experience and reflect on how they worked through it - creating a meaningful space for expression, processing, and connection.
We are deeply proud of and grateful for our continued partnership with the Kevin Love Fund, whose commitment to youth mental wellness continues to create life-changing opportunities for our JKL community.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park Field Trip
This year, JKL students from John Adams High School had the opportunity to explore one of Cleveland’s hidden gems - Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Although Cleveland is well known for its metro parks, many students were surprised to discover a national park so close to home. In collaboration with the National Park Foundation, students embarked on a nature walk guided by Park Rangers, who introduced them to the park’s rich history, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife.
Throughout the hike, students engaged in hands- on learning experiences, including observing native plant life, examining insects, and even holding small lizards. After the trail walk, students participated in an insightful panel discussion with several National Park staff members who shared their roles and highlighted the many components that keep the park thriving.
JKL Program Director Jenny Rizzo, who was visiting Cleveland, joined the group for the day—adding to the excitement of the experience. Students also heard from guest speaker Yvonne Monroe, a Cleveland native, East High School alumna, and registered nurse. Yvonne encouraged students to stay curious about their future paths, reminding them that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. She emphasized the value of asking questions, seeking out resources, pursuing internships, and connecting with mentors who can help guide their journey.
This memorable field trip provided students with meaningful exposure to nature, career pathways, and personal growth - illustrating the power of exploration and community partnerships in expanding students’ horizons.
Super Skate Posse Skateboarding Experience
In October 2024, students from our JKL West Charlotte program were introduced to the exciting world of skateboarding through a special partnership with the Super Skate Posse. This national organization brings skateboarding activations to underserved communities and equips participating youth with everything they need to get started. Each student received a skateboard, shoes, and a helmet, creating a safe and supportive environment to learn, explore, and build confidence.
This memorable experience not only encouraged physical activity and creativity but also provided students with a new avenue for self-expression and community connection.
2nd Annual Winter Wellness
We hosted our 2nd annual Winter Wellness Event, bringing together students from Ánimo Inglewood, Venice, and Hamilton High School from Los Angeles, CA for an evening focused on community, mindfulness, and well-being. Students arrived to a vibrant atmosphere with music, games, crafts, and hot chocolate before beginning a calming group meditation led by Suze Yalof Schwartz, founder of Unplug Meditation.
The highlight of the evening was an engaging panel featuring Dr. Jenny Taitz, acclaimed author and clinical psychologist; Dr. Robin Berman, JKL Advisory Board Member and Associate Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA; and Erin Lotz, clinical psychotherapist. They shared practical tools for managing stress and opened an honest dialogue around mental health and resilience.
After the discussion, students enjoyed dinner together before closing the night with a meaningful Gratitude Circle, reflecting on lessons learned and expressing appreciation.
We are deeply grateful to our guest speakers for empowering our students with skills to navigate life’s challenges. This event continues to grow into a cherished wellness tradition for our community.
2024 INCOME & EXPENSES SUMMARY
$10,196,000 WHAT WE SPENT
$6,474,000 PORTFOLIO INCOME: $465,000 PROGRAM SERVICES - $5,603,000 ADMIN AND MANAGEMENT - $517,000 FUNDRAISING - $354,000
UVALDE TWO YEARS LATER
THE UVALDE HEART SCHOLARSHIP
The Uvalde Heart Scholarship is awarded annually to a senior high school student from Uvalde, Texas, to attend Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, in memory of Maite Rodriguez, a 10-year-old student at Robb Elementary who tragically lost her life in the 2022 mass shooting. Maite dreamed of attending Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, and this scholarship honors her vision by supporting students who embody her hopes and dreams: a devotion to academic excellence and a loving, caring, and charismatic spirit. This scholarship is more than financial support – it is a symbol of hope, healing, and the enduring power of dreams.
2023-2024
SCHOLARSHIP
RECIPIENT: SEBASTIAN AVILA
Uvalde High School, Class of 2023
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi - Pre-Electrical Engineering
Major This scholarship is more than financial support – it is a symbol of hope, healing, and the enduring power of dreams.
of 2028
I am elated and extremely grateful to be a recipient of this scholarship! This scholarship helps me achieve my degree in nursing and I am so very lucky to have your support. College is not something everyone is promised, I am forever grateful that I am fortunate enough to be able to attend. My graduation is set for 2028!
Outside of school, I have always loved to surround myself with my loved ones and friends. It was typical of my family to gather after Sunday mass and enjoy a meal together. I can vividly remember our house filled with music, laughter and the smell of my mother’s famous cooking. Our favorite activity to do on a warm summer evening was head out to the Frio River in Concan, Texas. I’ve made the best memories out there with all of my loved ones over the years.
My mother was the person who inspired me to become a nurse. she would always tell me “I’m going to need someone to take care of me nana!” I always promised I would bring her all her favorite snacks and care for her the same way she nurtured me through all the years. I was driven to accomplish this goal by the family I was born into, and now there is a different kind of fire set within me to accomplish it for the family I wish to create myself. I am grateful to work towards the life my parents worked so hard for me to be able to build.
Once again, thank you so much for allowing my dreams to become a little less like dreams, and a little more of my reality.
Lyliana Garcia Nursing Class
UVALDE HEART SCHOLARSHIP
JKL LEADERSHIP
We are deeply grateful for the unwavering commitment of our Board of Directors and Advisory Board. These dedicated leaders champion our mission, open doors to new opportunities, and invest generously in the future of the students we serve. Their vision and advocacy help us create transformative programs and lasting impact. To each of our board members – thank you for inspiring change and helping us truly make a positive impact.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Matthew McConaughey Founder and CEO
Camila McConaughey Co-Founder
Robin Berman, M.D.
Rick George
Blaine Lourd
Shannon Mabrey Rotenberg
Jim Toth
Maria Gutierrez Watson
Markeith O. West
ADVISORY BOARD
Rachel Beller, M.S., RDN
J. Lloyd “Bud” Jacobs
Jim Kiick
Nicole Perez-Krueger
Michelle Kydd Lee
MEET OUR TEAM
Our mission is simple: prevent, so we don’t have to cure later in life. We meet students at a pivotal moment and empower them to make healthy choices – physically, mentally, emotionally – laying the foundation for a brighter, stronger future.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Shannon Mabrey Rotenberg
PROGR AM DIRECTOR
Jenny Rizzo
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAM STRATEGY AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
Leon Clayborne
SENIOR SCHOLARSHIP ADMINISTRATOR
Diana Montenegro
DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT
Danielle Riley
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Your generosity helps us continue providing life-changing programs for underserved youth. Here’s how you can make an impact:
Donate Online
It’s quick and easy! Make a tax-deductible donation online at JKLivinfoundation.org.
Your contribution helps us deliver after-school fitness and wellness programs in Title 1 high schools nationwide. Every dollar brings us closer to empowering more students to build healthier, brighter futures.
Match Your Gift
Double your impact! Check with your employer’s HR department to see if they match charitable donations.
Event Sponsorships
Partner with us by sponsoring one of our special events throughout the year – whether it’s our annual field days, teacher training, student field trips, camping adventures, first-time experiences, and more.
In-Kind Donations
Support our programs by donating goods or services – such as fitness equipment, healthy snacks, or event resources.
Corporate Partnerships
Align you brand with JKL through custom sponsorships, employee engagement programs, or cause-marketing campaigns.
Volunteer Your Time
Join us in making a difference! Opportunities include guest speaking at JKL programs, mentoring students, participating in community service events, or simply spending time with our outstanding students.
JKLivinfoundation.org j.k.
JKLivinfoundation
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
“Give thanks. Appreciate what you DO have. The more we give thanks, the more we receive to be thankful for. Gratitude is the gift that always gives back.”
—MATTHEW M c CONAUGHEY