Youth Empowerment
Joan’s House Inc. believes in the power of mentorship. We pair experienced seniors with enthusiastic young individuals, creating valuable opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and guidance. Our organization offers various educational workshops, scholarships, and vocational training programs to equip youth with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive world.
Scholarship of Community Engagement - $10,000
Stephanie Lyons Jones obtained her bachelor’s degree in education from Morgan State University and later pursued a master’s degree in human development at George Washington University. She served as a school teacher and an assistant principal in the DCPS and PGCPS school systems for over 40 years before retiring in 2015. During her tenure, she helped Crossland High School achieve a 99% acceptance rate for multiple classes. Stephanie also worked as a part-time Case Manager for the Center for Juvenile and Criminal Justice, assisting children at risk from 1992 to 2010. She has been a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – Alpha Gamma 1973 – MSU for fifty years. Stephanie has devoted her life to social actions and public and mental health as part of arts and letters committees.
Scholarship of Leadership - $10,000
Gloria Gary Lawlah is a teacher by profession. She completed her undergraduate education at Hampton University, earning her B.S. Degree in Social Science in 1960 and a Masters of Arts Degree from Trinity University in 1970, with a major in English and Administration. She served as a teacher and administrator in the District of Columbia Public Schools from 1965 to 1995.
In 1982, she was elected to the Prince George’s County Democratic Central Committee and then to the Maryland House of Delegates in 1986. Four years later, in 1990, she was elected to the Maryland State Senate on a “Pro-Choice” platform, becoming the first Prince George’s woman
in history elected to the Maryland Senate, and the second African American female in the history of the State of Maryland (the first African American woman was Verda Mae Freeman Welcome from Baltimore City). She served in the Maryland State Senate until 2007 and served as Federal Liaison for Bowie State University.
Gloria currently sits on the Interagency Commission to build all state schools and is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Pierians, American Business Women’s
Association, Hi-Los, and Links.
Scholarship Craftsmanship & Ingenuity - $10,000
Albert Jenkins, born in 1939 in Woodrow, South Carolina, is a humble individual who exemplified resilience and hard work throughout his life. Beginning his career at just 15 as a bus driver, he quickly proved himself as a dedicated and reliable worker. Albert Jenkins came to Washington, DC in 1958, where he met his wife of 44 years, Mary Jenkins. Serving in the U.S. Army and graduating from Armstrong Vocational School in Washington, DC, he sharpened his skills and dedication to excellence. His skills lead him into the automotive industry, establishing his own auto mechanic shop on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.
With an entrepreneurial spirit, Albert became a proficient brick mason, eventually building his own home from the ground up. Through his dedication and expertise, he earned a reputation for providing top-notch service to his customers. In addition to his diverse career, Albert Jenkins also worked as a cab driver and obtained his CDL license, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to expanding his skill set. His dedication to serving others extended to his role as a driver for students with special needs in DC Public Schools, where his compassion and reliability made a positive impact on countless lives. Throughout his life, Albert Jenkins exemplified the values of perseverance, determination, entrepreneurship, and craftsmanship, leaving a legacy in both his community and profession.
Scholarship of Public Service - $10,000
Born and raised in Washington, DC, Paula Noble is a native Washingtonian who has lived in Prince George’s County’s District 8 since 1975. Paula earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Administration from Trinity University (Washington, DC), where she has served as a member of its Alumnae Board. Paula is also a graduate of the University of Maryland Institute of Governmental Service’s Academy for Excellence in Local Governance.
As a public servant, Paula has served as the Mayor of the Town of Forest Heights and currently serves as a council member for Ward III and Public Safety Chair for the Town of Forest Heights. Her commitment to the State of Maryland and Prince George’s County extends far beyond her duties as an elected official. Appointed by Governor Bob Ehrlich in 2004, Paula served as a member of the Commission on Quality Education for the State of Maryland. Paula is the co-lead for Dementia Friendly America Prince George’s South County, which helps to educate communities on ways to support persons living with dementia. Currently, she serves as a board member for the Greater Oxon Hill Community Development Corporation and a member of the Engagement and Outreach Committee for the Maryland Municipal League.
Scholarship of Academic Excellence - $10,000
Dr. Beverly Anderson was born and raised in the 7th Ward of New Orleans during a time of segregation. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Dillard University, becoming the first member of her family to leave New Orleans when she moved to Howard University for graduate school. In 1978, she completed her PhD at the Catholic University of America.
Anderson began teaching Mathematics at the University of the District of Columbia in 1969, where she went on to hold various positions such as Professor of Mathematics, Mathematics Department Chair, and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. She was awarded one of the faculty awards from the White House Initiative for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. In 1988, she took a leave of absence to join the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences, where she launched the Making Mathematics Work for Minorities program.
Dr. Anderson remained a consultant on the National Academy of Sciences Mathematics Education Program, serving as a consultant for the Everybody Counts report in 2000. In addition to her academic career, she also served on Prince George’s County School Board when appointed by then County Executive Rushern Baker in 2013.
Scholarship of Resiliency - $10,000
Joan Johnson’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Born in Winnsboro, South Carolina, Joan’s life took a significant turn at the age of three when she moved to Rochester, NY, with her grandmother and siblings. Raised in a close-knit environment where family support was paramount, Joan often found herself under the care of her grandmother while her mother worked tirelessly. Her path diverged when, at the tender age of 17, Joan welcomed her own daughter into the world. Faced with the responsibility of single motherhood, Joan made the difficult decision to leave high school and enter the workforce to provide for her child. From Kodak to various factories, she embraced every opportunity that came her way, mastering skills in cleaning, hospitality, and innovation. However, it was the unwavering love for her daughter that ignited a transformation within Joan.
Determined to set a powerful example for her child, she resolved to pursue her education. With grit and perseverance, Joan earned her GED and embarked on higher education at SUNY Brockport. Driven by her passion for helping others, Joan transitioned into a role as a WEP work coordinator, where she dedicated herself to empowering individuals to achieve their educational and professional goals. Her compassion and dedication have touched countless lives, inspiring others to overcome obstacles and reach for their dreams. Joan Johnson’s story is one of triumph over adversity, a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering strength of the human spirit. Through her journey, she has not only transformed her own life but has also become a beacon of hope and inspiration for those around her.
Eligibility Requirements:
Current high school senior (within Prince George’s County) or a graduate of a Prince George’s County high school
Application Requirements:
– Three (3) short essay responses
– High school transcript (college transcript, if applicable)
– Acceptance Letter (if applicable)
– One (1) letter of recommendation
Emerging Leaders Scholarship - $2,500
Application Deadline: May 31, 2024
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Eligibility Requirements:
Current high school senior (within Prince George’s County) or a graduate of a Prince George’s County high school
Application Requirements:
– Two (2) short essay responses
– High school transcript (college transcript, if applicable)
– Acceptance Letter (if applicable)
– Two (2) academic, professional, or personal references (one must be academic)
“Empowerment is the key that unlocks the boundless potential within our youth. Join us in shaping brighter futures and building stronger communities.
Your donation fuels dreams and transforms lives.“
At Joan’s House Inc., our impact on youth empowerment is both profound and far-reaching. Since our inception, we have been dedicated to equipping young individuals with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through our various programs and initiatives, we have empowered countless young people to discover their potential, pursue their passions, and make a positive difference in their communities.
