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College Recreation

JUST ASSUMING KIDS DON'T OUTREACH CENTER (JAKD)

Shaping the Future of Youth

What We Strive

Teenagers
Community Service

At JUST ASSUMING KIDS DON'T OUTREACH CENTER (JAKD), we firmly believe that children have an immense amount of potential and are capable of shaping the future. Our organization is dedicated to empowering youth and families by promoting civic engagement, strengthening communities, and fostering a love for learning through our various community outreach initiatives. One of our key initiatives is the provision of a free community closet, which offers a wide range of new and gently used clothing items for youth and families to shop through. We understand that looking good can help you feel good, and we want our youth to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. Our ultimate goal is to address social, economic, and educational disparities by providing innovative solutions and fostering sustainable change in our communities.

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OUR FIRST INITIATIVE 

      GG's Closet

Our first initiative focuses on providing free, high quality gently used clothing to school-age children in need. Whether they are facing financial challenges or simply in need of a fresh start, we are here to ensure they have the clothing they need to feel confident and comfortable at school. Our goal is to make sure every child has the opportunity to focus on their education without the worry of the right clothes. Because lets be honest when you look good, you feel good, you do good! 

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Picture taken 11/01/2024

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Our Mission 

JUST ASSUMING KIDS DON'T (JAKD)

JAKD is dedicated to empowering youth and families through community outreach initiatives. Our range of enrichment programs aim to enhance learning, encourage civic engagement, and build stronger communities by addressing their unique needs. We are committed to providing innovative solutions and fostering sustainable change to address social, economic, and educational disparities.

Our Vision

Just Assuming Kids Don't Outreach Center (JAKD)  believe that each child deserves a chance to succeed and we are committed to providing them with the support they need to thrive.

Join us in our mission to empower the next generation.

What's to come?
Before & After Care Program

We are excited to announce that our before and after school programs will be launching soon, offering a warm welcome to all children interested in joining. Our centers will be conveniently located inside Imani Baptist Temple, providing easy drop-off and pick-up for parents. Our primary goal is to create a safe, stimulating, and faith-filled environment where children can thrive.

The programs will feature carefully designed, supervised activities aimed at fostering positive relationships between children, staff, and families. We believe in building a more personal connection with each child, ensuring that every participant feels valued and supported. By strengthening these bonds, we will also reinforce their foundation for learning.

Recognizing the unique needs of each community, our center will offer a tailored program that is faith-centered and designed to meet the specific needs of the children, families, schools, and community it serves. Details will be available soon, and spaces will be limited, so we encourage you to secure your spot soon!

Why Become a Donor

"Partnering with JAKD means making a real difference in the lives of young people who will become next generation of future leaders. By joining forces with JAKD, our partners have a unique opportunity to positively impact the lives of Fort Wayne's most vulnerable kids, while also increasing visibility for their brands, reaching targeted demographics, and demonstrating a commitment to communities in need. Join us in creating a brighter future for our city."

Support Our Cause
Leave a one-time donation
$

Thank you for helping us make a difference!

2920 Indiana Ave

Fort Wayne, IN 46807

Team

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

We are excited to introduce our diverse and highly educated board, a group of professionals with a wide range of expertise, including entrepreneurship, business, education, and more. With a blend of innovative thinkers and advanced qualifications, each member is dedicated to driving positive change and fostering growth in our community. Their unique perspectives and collaborative approach will help shape the future of our organization

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Deidra Williams is an entrepreneur with a diverse background in business, healthcare, and nonprofit work. As the founder she is dedicated to creating positive community impact. She also owns and operates JAKD PARTY RENTAL, where she leverages her expertise in management and customer relations.

With independent studies in business, credit management, and nonprofit operations, Deidra is passionate about empowering others and making a difference. A wife, mother, and grandmother, she balances family life with her professional endeavors, always driven by a commitment to service and community

Founder & Executive Director

Deidra Williams

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Audrea R. Bell is a native of Ft. Wayne, IN. Ms. Bell is an alumni of South Side High School and Indiana University- Bloomington. She received her Masters of Education Degree, Educational Leadership, from Indiana University in 2014 with a minor certification in Special Education. Ms. Bell has served in the field of education for over eighteen years holding both educator and assistant principal positions. She currently serves the community by holding a position as an Education Liaison for the Indiana Dept of Child Services.

Board-Chair

Audrea Bell

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My name is Alece’ Porter, and I have been a resident of Fort Wayne, IN for most of my life. I am married to my husband of 13 years. I will be completing my Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis in May 2025 and am working toward becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. Currently, I am employed in the field of ABA, providing support to children with autism spectrum disorder. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy traveling, attending concerts, reading, and continuously expanding my knowledge. I am excited about the opportunity to serve on the board of a great organization and wish much success professionally.

Vice-Chair

Alece Porter

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Jamya Bryant, a native of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a highly skilled accounting professional and the Founder of "The Bliss Books Group." She combines a modern approach with a strong commitment to excellence in her field. Jamya’s passion for numbers and meticulous attention to detail were shaped through her education at Indiana University, where she also participated in the Indiana University Groups Scholar Program. She is focused on the future, with aspirations to establish her own accounting firm to provide expert financial guidance to businesses. Outside of her professional pursuits, Jamya is an avid traveler, a dedicated reader, and enjoys engaging in creative, artistic activities. Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in both her career and community, she strives for continuous professional growth and success.

Treasurer

Jamya J.

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Gabrielle Miles, a proud native of Fort Wayne, is a business and marketing professional committed to community service. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in Marketing from Saint Mary's College, Notre Dame, in 2023.

Currently, Gabrielle serves as the Head of Marketing for GEN-D, where she leads strategic marketing initiatives, and is the owner of Miles of Measurable Results, a social media marketing and website development company.

With her extensive experience in marketing and business management, Gabrielle brings valuable expertise to the board of JAKD, a nonprofit focused on empowering youth in the community. She is excited to leverage her skills to collaborate with fellow board members and help drive growth and success for the organization

Secretary

Gabrielle Miles

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“I'm LaMar Hudson, I am proud to serve as a board member for JAKD. With 3 years of experience in the financial industry, I bring expertise in financial management and strategic planning to support our mission of empowering the youth.

 

Throughout my career, I've helped individuals and organizations navigate complex financial landscapes to achieve their goals. I'm passionate about leveraging my skills to drive positive change and advance our impact within the community.

 

Beyond my professional role, I'm deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. I actively volunteer my time and expertise to various charitable causes, reflecting my dedication to making a difference.

 

As a board member, I offer strategic insights and a collaborative spirit to guide our organization towards success. I look forward to continuing to serve and contribute to our mission at JAKD!”

Board Member At- Large

Lamar Hudson

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I am a woman who wears many hats with grace. I am a loving wife, mother of three, and I come with a big entrepreneurial spirit! I have a contagious zest for life, and approach every challenge with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. 

 

I love that my infectious energy inspires those around me, igniting their own passions and dreams.

 

 I strive to lead by example, demonstrating the power of resilience and unwavering belief in oneself. However, my true calling lies in my dedication to helping my community. Empathy flows through my veins, and I tirelessly work to uplift and empower all walks of life. 

 

 My boundless passion and unwavering determination fuel my endeavors, and my hope is to be a guiding light for those seeking to unleash their full potential and create meaningful change.

Director of Fundraising and Donor Relations

Kenya Clancy- Lewis

PHONE

866)271-0413

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JAKD is a 501(c)3 (nonprofit) organization and donations are tax deductible.

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