Our Impact

Overview of Jelani Gives

Jelani Gives, a 501c3 nonprofit, formerly Jelani Girls, was created as a labor of love by founder Ashley N. Company. Recognizing a need for underserved children to overcome the cyclical limitations of their socio-economic backgrounds, Ashley became steadfast in her pursuit of providing youth with an opportunity to look beyond their backyards. Aware that there are different approaches to grow and develop as well-rounded citizens and leaders in the community, Jelani Gives empowers youth ages 16 and older to achieve greatness through cultural exploration and rediscovery of Black history through the lens of continental Africa through its online learning program, Passport to Cultural Freedom.

The Passport to Cultural Freedom program serves as a self-paced online learning program for youth and young adults ages 16-21. The cultural exploration and rediscovery program reviews Black History through the lens of continental Africa. HBCU students with American citizenship will have the opportunity to apply for and receive their very own US passport through the Jelani Travel passport fund at Hampton University.

We envision a world where Black American youth have access to world-class, culturally-competent learning experiences that grow their understanding of history, expand their world views, and develop their leadership capacity, regardless of where they live or come from. Jelani Gives has raised funds to provide educational programming and U.S. passports to 364 students and counting.