"Education is very important to me because it will help me survive later on. It will get me a good job and get food, shelter and the other things I will need to live on my own."

-Keyshawn   

About JustAsk

JustAsk is a service campaign that brings JABBERS together to collectively wrap our arms around families in our community who are using educational resources to improve their lives. JustAskBoo has teamed up with United Way of Miami-Dade to help make a difference for local families. We are pleased to introduce you to Keyshawn, a determined, bright young boy who is using an after school program to change his life.  

At the age of five, Keyshawn had a passion for learning. Growing up with three other siblings in Liberty City, he had few resources, but knew he had a desire to find out more about the world around him. That's when his mom turned to The Barnyard, a neighborhood community center run by the non-profit organization Coconut Grove Cares. The Barnyard provides free after school and summer programming to at-risk children with educational, recreational and cultural activities year-round.

Keyshawn, now 13, goes to The Barnyard before and after school for help with homework and to use a computer since he doesn't have one at home. 

"Education is very important to me because it will help me survive later on. It will get me a good job and get food, shelter and the other things I will need to live on my own."

Today, nearly one-third of students will not graduate on time, which has a significant social and economic consequence. It's why programs like The Barnyard are so vital to the community. It keeps children motivated and provides a safe space away from the bad influences that often affect children when they are home alone after school.

Keyshawn is an example of how after school programming can change a life. He uses The Barnyard as a way to grow and learn. Recently, he joined a robotics team and participated in the First Lego League Robotics Tournament, where he excelled. He has big dreams and is grateful for the support provided to him and his mother by everyone at The Barnyard.

"My dream that I have for the future is to become a lawyer and a judge. Then after that I would like to become President."

To learn more about Keyshawn, watch the video below.

How You Can Help 

While United Way of Miami-Dade provides funding to The Barnyard, the center still is in need of basic school supplies to continue providing enriching activities to Keyshawn and other at-risk children in West Coconut Grove. We've created a registry with an assortment of supplies, games and learning tools and we "JustAsk" JABBERS to purchase items so the children can continue to focus on their education. Just click the link below to help!