From Olympic Glory to Community Impact
Jackie Joyner-Kersee, a six-time Olympic medalist, is using her legendary athletic career to inspire and uplift young people in her hometown of East St. Louis. Through her Jackie Joyner-Kersee (JJK) Foundation, she has created a “Winning in Life” curriculum that empowers youth to achieve success both on and off the field.
Joyner-Kersee’s journey began at the Mary Brown Community Center, where she discovered her love for sports. “Being surrounded by people who believed in me and saw the potential I didn’t know I had changed my life,” she recalls. This early support shaped her belief in the power of community and mentorship.
After facing personal challenges, including an asthma diagnosis and the loss of her mother, Joyner-Kersee returned to her roots. She found her beloved community center closed, sparking her determination to create a safe space for future generations.
Building a Legacy Through the JJK Foundation
In 1988, Joyner-Kersee established the JJK Foundation to provide opportunities for youth in East St. Louis. The foundation’s center, completed in 2000, offers programs grounded in her “Winning in Life” curriculum. This curriculum focuses on 14 principles, including confidence, dedication, and wellness, to help young people thrive.
“It was very important that our young people see me in person,” Joyner-Kersee explains. “I want them to know I’m from this community, just like them.” Her hands-on approach has made a significant impact, with the foundation now serving 10,000 families annually, up from 3,000 just five years ago.
The foundation’s programs are affordable, ensuring accessibility for all. For example, the after-school program costs only $50 per year, while the eight-week summer camp is $200. Both programs include meals, sports, academic enrichment, and field trips.
Expanding Opportunities Beyond East St. Louis
Joyner-Kersee’s vision extends far beyond her hometown. She is working to bring the “Winning in Life” curriculum to other cities, including Gary, Indiana, and South Gate, California. Her ultimate goal is to take the program international, spreading her message of resilience and empowerment.
“We’re letting young people know that the impossible is probable,” she says. “Our environment should not define us. We define the environment. We are the narrators of our stories.”
Through her foundation, Joyner-Kersee is rewriting the script for East St. Louis and beyond. Her work proves that with determination and support, anyone can overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
