Joy is Everywhere: Building Stronger Communities Together
2023
*Joy is Everywhere* teamed up with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Higher Ground for Humanity at the Boys and Girls Club of Mar Vista in Culver City, California, to sponsor a life skills workshop for 3rd and 5th graders. The workshop focused on raising their level of joy through self-expression, yoga, mindful breathing, journaling, and positive affirmations. It was an inspiring and empowering experience aimed at fostering emotional well-being and personal growth.

*Joy is Everywhere*, in partnership with Higher Ground, hosted the *Rise Summer Improv Program* and helped organize the *Flavors of Origin Food Festival*, which included a vibrant Kids Spoken Word Competition. It was a summer filled with creativity, connection, and fun, as we worked together to engage and uplift the communities of Los Angeles. From fostering self-expression through improv to celebrating culture and talent at the food festival, we’re proud to have served and inspired youth and families across the city, making this summer one to remember.


2024
*Joy is Everywhere* teamed up with the WNBA Los Angeles Sparks for an unforgettable fundraising game night, where we hosted over 30 kids ages 4-13 for an exciting evening of women’s basketball. The event was a huge success, bringing joy and inspiration to the children while creating core memories and lasting friendships. It was a night filled with excitement, empowerment, and community spirit, as the kids cheered on the Sparks and experienced the power of sports and teamwork firsthand.

*Joy is Everywhere* partnered with supermodel Alton Mason and Dolce & Gabbana to host an exclusive charity dinner, raising vital funds to support our mission. The evening was nothing short of extraordinary, with Dolce & Gabbana lending their platform to bring awareness to our organization and the important work we do. It was a night of celebration, philanthropy, and connection, as we came together to make a lasting impact and continue bringing joy to communities in need.

We’re excited to share the success of our *Joy Is Everywhere Kids Wellness Day*, held in partnership with the YMCA Crenshaw. This event brought together 17 children, ages 5-14, from underserved communities for a day of yoga, mindfulness, and emotional wellness. With 100% participation, the kids unplugged from technology and engaged in activities focused on mental and physical well-being. Facilitated by Ace from *Ace Yoga*The children learned valuable yoga poses and breathing techniques, helping them build emotional resilience. Over 75% of kids expressed interest in attending future events like this, and the yoga and mindfulness exercises were the clear favorites. Each child went home with a *Well-Being Bag* filled with resources to continue their mental health journey. This event marked a significant step in providing these young people with the tools they need to thrive, and we look forward to offering more programs like this in the future.

PROGRAM FUNDING FOR 2024
- 2024 SOCIAL PROGRAM GRANT from Office of J.Mitchell
- 2024 WNBA LOS ANGELES SPARKS FUNDRAISER
- 2024 CHARITY BENEFIT DINNER SPONSORED BY DOLCE&GABBANA