One in a series of profiles of the people who make our work possible. Javana is Program Manager of our Reef House Learning Center. Her recent graduation from Atlanta Technical College with an Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Business Administration helped motivate Future Foundation students to focus on their own high school graduation. Javana also has certification in Child Development from Laney and Merritt College in Oakland, California, and earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential from Spelman College.
Where do you live?
College Park
Describe your current activities at Future Foundation.
I serve as the Program Manager of the Reef House Learning Center, where we provide after-school services to 6th and 7th graders during after school hours. This year marks my eighth year with the Foundation.
What is the most fulfilling thing about your job?
I’m most fulfilled through working with the students during the school year and summer from the beginning and witnessing their progress. Not just academics—the experience improves behavior and completely transforms their perspective on learning.
Are you involved in any volunteer activities?
Yes, I volunteer at community events and school events. In particular, I volunteer as a classroom assistant throughout the year in the classes of the Learning Center students and at the schools my kids attend.
Who is your biggest inspiration? Why?
My biggest inspiration is my two sons Dalemarco and Dalesean because they taught me the meaning of investment: You must invest in yourself so that you are able to invest in your children and make their dreams come true. This is what made me push myself to pursue higher education—and this is only the beginning.
How are you helping Future Foundation achieve its mission of “Leveling the playing field for metro Atlanta youth by providing quality education, health, and life skills programs”?
By being committed to helping students who need the extra help that parents are not always able to provide.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to open a group home for pregnant teens that would also have a childcare component.