The Game Plan
I—Increase Literacy in Early Childhood
Basic reading skills are vital for long-term success, and children who are behind in literary skills by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. Our goal is to encourage long-term success by highlighting the joy and necessity of reading and supporting teachers with grade-appropriate reading materials.
M—Mentor Young Men and Women
“Show me a successful individual and I’ll show you someone who had real positive influences in his or her life. I don’t care what you do for a living—if you do it well I’m sure someone was cheering you on or showing the way. A mentor.” — Denzel Washington
Mentoring has many benefits, such as offering professional development, improving communication skills, and developing formal and informal relationships. KJIF plans to build relationships with the youth in our community to encourage excellence, provide wisdom, and create a network of individuals who value mutual respect and growth.
P—Provide for Underserved Populations
Success is attainable; however, challenges are inevitable. At some point, everyone needs help. Sometimes it’s a word of encouragement or wisdom, sometimes it’s a second chance, and sometimes it’s financial assistance. KJIF understands that achieving success requires joint effort, and we consider it an honor to serve our community in a variety of ways.
A—Advocate for Student Athletes
The road to athletic greatness is not marked by perfection, but by the ability to constantly overcome adversity and failure. – Nike
Student athletes are more than grades and talent. They are leaders and encouragers and the citizens who will continue to build our communities for the next generation. Whether they choose to pursue athletic, academic, skilled, or ministerial paths forward, KJIF wants to make sure student athletes are treated justly and given the best chance for prosperous futures.
C—Create Opportunities for Community Growth
Small businesses are vital to a thriving economy. The smallest firms (less than 20 employees) are the leading cause of job creation in the country; unfortunately, they also have the leading percentage of job loss. KJIF hopes to stem this loss by partnering with local small businesses to help them gain exposure and implement strategies to fully develop their business plans. In doing so their visions become realities and the entire community benefits from their success.
T—Teach the Community the Importance of Total Health
We believe in total health – physical, mental, emotional, relational, educational, and financial. When people lack health in any of these areas, it affects their performance in all the others. KJIF desires to teach our community about the interaction of these six areas of health and encourage individuals to pursue a balanced lifestyle that will support and sustain the weight of their dreams.