Gena Jefferson is someone I met at a hackathon for grassroots non-profits local to NYC in March 2019. I was a volunteer at the door welcoming people in. It turned out Gena Jefferson grew up in a building I used to live in (The Ebbets Field Apartments in Crown Heights); she also was an alum of Fordham University as I was; and she had studied inter-religious dialogue which was a main focus of my studies (though mine had been in more of a historical context, and she has since become a reverend). We became friends, which is maybe unusual since she is more than two decades older than me and a queer black woman, but it has felt pretty natural for me. I enjoy being in relationship with wise, grounded, generous people – and Gena is all is that and more!
I started donating to JAIA Youth in 2019, and I've seen how their support of young women (and men) of color transforms those who are anxious, shy, or depressed into young people who are confident, connected, and full of kindness. JAIA helps youth heal, break generational cycles, and become catalysts for change in their communities. In offering them community and opportunities to practice finding their voice, JAIA makes safe space to take action for good. It's inspiring! One year ago, I joined the Board and am energized by the integrity of all our volunteers to serve the spiritual purpose that helps us all grow.