Jared Joiner

Outdoor Afro launched their “Making Waves” program to provide Black children with swim lessons because Black youth are seven times more likely to drown than their white counterparts. I chose to support this program at Outdoor Afro because swimming has been core to my identity since childhood when I was fortunate to be part of a few all-Black swim teams in the DC area. Outdoor Afro is working to erase the legacies of pool segregation so that every child can be safe in and around the water — and maybe even find a lifelong passion.

I donated to StreetCode Academy because they provide Black and Brown youth historically underrepresented in the tech sector with exposure and training to become the next generation of leaders. As the global economy continues to focus on tech careers, programs like StreetCode Academy will make sure that folks from all backgrounds have access to creating innovative technologies.

Lastly, I also support two organizations I volunteer with — the National Center for Montessori in the Public Sector (NCMPS) and SPARK SF Public Schools. Both of these organizations are working to transform lives by creating high quality public education experiences for children and youth.

Outside of CZI, I donate time and resources to organizations that eliminate barriers to learning and extracurricular activities and unlock youth interests and potential.

Within CZI, my work attempts to create educational experiences for all children that I was fortunate to have — safe, caring, and supportive learning environments that nurtured my full self. Outside of CZI, I donate time and resources to organizations that provide powerful learning and extracurricular activities that unlock youth interests and potential.