ABOUT US
About Jacob's Ladder Youth Foundation
Jacob's Ladder Youth Foundation is a youth development and community organization focused on creating better pathways for youth, families, and communities.
To reduce the number of juveniles entering into and returning to the juvenile justice system through educational programming, training, mentorship, family support, and community-based opportunities.
Mission
A community where every young person has the opportunity, support, and skills to build a self-sufficient, productive future.
VISION
DMV
Region Served
PG County
Primary Focus
9
Programs
10+
Years Serving
Rooted in Prince George's County. Built to Give Back.
Jacob's Ladder was created out of a need for stronger, more consistent support for youth returning home from the juvenile justice system and youth at risk of deeper system involvement.
The organization was founded with a passion for Prince George's County and a commitment to giving back to the community that helped shape its leadership. Through experience in coaching, teaching, law enforcement, mentoring, and community service, Jacob's Ladder was built to support youth in a more personal, practical, and community-centered way.
Today, the organization serves youth, families, schools, and community partners through programs that address education, reentry, diversion, STEM, trades, family strengthening, and outreach.
Serving Youth, Families, and the Community
Jacob's Ladder primarily serves youth ages 14 to 20, with many participants between the ages of 16 and 18.
The organization supports justice-involved youth, youth returning home, youth navigating behavioral or academic challenges, families in need of support, and young people looking for positive pathways forward.
Jacob's Ladder also supports high-achieving and college-bound youth through scholarships, academic support, career exposure, and community-based opportunities.
Flexible, Diverse, and Built Around Real Needs
Jacob's Ladder is not limited to one lane. The organization adapts to the needs of the community and builds programs around what youth and families actually need.
That work includes youth development, family development, academic support, STEM, aviation, drone technology, trades, music, food distribution, school support, scholarships, community events, and more.
This flexibility allows Jacob's Ladder to meet youth and families where they are and provide support in ways that are practical, meaningful, and connected to real life.
MEET OUR TEAM
Jacob's Ladder is powered by dedicated leadership, experienced program staff, and a committed board working together to create stronger pathways for youth and families.
program / staff team
JL
Kenny Hooks
Supports program leadership, coordination, and youth development efforts across Jacob's Ladder initiatives.
Program Director
JL
Rakesha Fowler
Helps parents and caregivers access tools, encourage
Parent Engagement Specialist
JL
Daje
Supports academic enrichment, GED programming, and educational support for youth.
Education Specialist
life coaches
JL
Life Coach 1
Provides guidance, encouragement, accountability, and mentorship for youth participants.
Life Coach
JL
Life Coach 2
Provides guidance, encouragement, accountability, and mentorship for youth participants.
Life Coach
JL
Life Coach
Provides guidance, encouragement, accountability, and mentorship for youth participants.
Life Coach
JL
Life Coach 4
Provides guidance, encouragement, accountability, and mentorship for youth participants.
Life Coach
JL
Life Coach 5
Provides guidance, encouragement, accountability, and mentorship for youth participants.
Life Coach
life coaches
JL
Adonica Renee Pickett
Owner of Miles Away Travel 2. Passionate about serving young people and empowering their success.
Board Member
JL
Board Member 6
Placeholder — name, title, and bio to be confirmed.
Board Member
JL
Riquicha Fowler
Founder/Director of SPARKLE, a nonprofit focused on helping teens and young women achieve their potential.
Board Member
JL
Michael Delaney
Founder/Director of SPARKLE, a nonprofit focused on helping teens and young women achieve their potential.
Board Member
JL
Winston Wilson
Fifteen-year veteran of the PG County Police Department, serving in Internal Affairs.
Board Member
JL
Board Member 5
Placeholder — name, title, and bio to be confirmed.
Board Member
program / staff team
JL
Jarriel Jordan, Sr.
Executive Director & Founder
Leads the overall vision, strategy, and operations of Jacob's Ladder Youth Foundation. Over thirty years serving youth and community in Prince George's County.
Approved Credible Messenger
Maryland Dept. of Juvenile Services
Community Partnership Grant
Prince George's County
Hope in Action Grant
Anti-Violence Project
Community Recognition Award
PG County Council, District 6
Credibility
Trusted Community-Based Support
Jacob's Ladder is an approved credible messenger program with Maryland's Department of Juvenile Services.
This recognition reflects the organization's ability to work with youth and families through trusted relationships, community-based support, and programs designed to help young people move forward.
Grant Awards & Recognitions
Community Partnership Grant
Community Partnership Grant
Grant
Hope in Action Anti-Violence Project Grant
Prince George's County
Grant
Smiles in Action Award
PepsiCo Foundation
AWARD
Community Recognition Award for Juvenile Re-Entry
Prince George's County Council – District 6