The Junior Melanin Collective

Unleashing The Power and Potential Within.

Helping Teens Unleash Their Full Power and Potential

About The program image
Mission
To cultivate a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to service, fostering a deep sense of self-worth and confidence while promoting the ability to thrive.

Vision
Ultimately, our vision is to create a generation of leaders who are not only capable of making a difference in their own lives but who are also committed to making a positive impact on the world around them. By investing in the next generation of changemakers, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for all.

About
The Junior Melanin Collective is a dynamic organization that engages young women of color in stimulating and transformative ways, fostering growth in their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Here, we encourage exploration of interests, values, and skills, while providing mentorship, community service initiatives, entrepreneurial and employment workshops, physical and mental wellness collaborations with local organizations, and relationship building with law enforcement and city leaders. 

Our programs are designed to empower young women of color to reach their full potential, both personally and professionally. We believe that by providing opportunities for young people to develop their skills and interests, we can help them become successful and productive members of society.

Through our mentorship program, we connect young people with experienced professionals who can offer guidance and support as they navigate their personal and professional lives. Our entrepreneurial and employment workshops provide valuable training and resources to help start their own businesses or find meaningful employment.

We also collaborate with wellness professionals to promote physical and mental wellness, offering workshops and activities that foster living and positive mental health. And through our community service initiatives, we encourage members to give back to their communities and make a positive impact on the world around them.

At the Junior Melanin Collective, we are committed to helping young people grow and thrive. Join us today and discover the many ways we can help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential.

Pillars 
Community Service
Physical and Mental Wellness
Exploration and Adventure
Mentorship and Support
Entrepreneurship and Employment
Leadership and Accountability 

The Future Begins Now

Personal Development Workshops

Our personal development workshops are interactive programs designed to help our teens build their self-confidence, leadership skills, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. These workshops typically involve group activities, discussions, and exercises that encourage participants to reflect on their values, goals, and personal strengths. Some common topics covered in these workshops include: managing stress, setting achievable goals, building positive relationships, and developing healthy habits. Overall, these workshops aim to equip teens with the tools and skills they need to thrive both personally and academically.

Mental Health Retreats

Teen mental health retreats are specialized programs designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for our teenagers to take a mental break from the norms of life. These retreats typically offer sessions from the Wellness Development Workbook By Coach Xola Nicole, such as group activities, mindfulness practices, outdoor activities, lots of fun and food to help teens develop coping strategies and improve their overall mental wellbeing.

Mentorship and Wellness Coaching

Our mentorship and wellness coaching program is a structured approach to support individuals in achieving their personal and professional goals. It involves working with a mentor or coach who provides guidance, support and accountability to help our teens overcome challenges and develop new skills. The wellness component of the program focuses on promoting physical, mental and emotional health to enhance overall well-being. Together, mentorship and wellness coaching can help individuals achieve balance and fulfillment in all areas of their lives.

Community Service

We are dedicated to promoting unity and giving back. Our community service program for teens involves engaging our young women in activities that benefit their local community. These programs help teens develop leadership skills, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards their community.

College and Career Exploration

Through our program teens will experience college and career exploration that involves exploring different options for post-secondary education and future careers. This may include researching various colleges and universities, attending college fairs, and taking aptitude and interest tests. It may also involve job shadowing, internships, and informational interviews to gain hands-on experience in different fields. Ultimately, the goal is to help our teens make informed decisions about their future educational and career paths.

Adventures and Outings

Our adventure and outings program for teens offers exciting and safe indoor and outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, spa days, and game nights. Our experienced leaders lead the way and teach valuable skills while fostering teamwork, leadership and togetherness. Join us for unforgettable adventures!

Meet the Board and Our Staff

Join Us

  • $0.00
  •  4/23/2023 11:30 AM - 4/23/2023 01:30 PM

Attention to all former Evanston G.E.M.s participants, current high school young ladies, adults who are interested in mentoring, and anyone who wants to contribute to The Junior Melanin Collective's mission! We cordially invite you to join us as we catch up with the G.E.M.s and discover what they are currently up to. We will also share inspiring stories and provide insights into the collective's upcoming initiatives.

  •  3/19/2022 09:00 AM - 3/20/2022 12:00 PM
  •   800 Compton Rd

Give your teen the opportunity to come hang out in an upbeat, positive, affirming, atmosphere. This weekend we will discuss self-care, mental health, and self-esteem (learning to be confident in yourself). We will also have activities, such as a photobooth, journaling, movies, movement, and more!!! $199 includes all meals, a sleeping bag, and all materials needed for the weekend.

  •  3/12/2022 04:00 PM - 3/13/2022 05:30 PM
  • Online Event

The first teen talk was amazing! We had a support of people from teens, to parents, child therapists, teachers, and police officers online to talk about teen mental health. This time it'll just be for the children. We want the children to be able to talk with their peers about issues surrounding mental health. Register your child below to have them be a part of the conversation: Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZArc-mprD8jGNXpeGSFUc3aDZYIUnsFp4fT After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

  •  2/6/2022 04:00 PM - 2/6/2022 06:00 PM
  • Online Event

Teen mental health is in crisis mode. Join us for a community discussion on that mental health awareness and suicide prevention. We have a panel of teens, parents, police officers, teachers, and counselors. The goal is to raiser awareness then work on solutions.

Join, Give, Volunteer, Mentor

  • 800 Compton Rd Suite 6 Cincinnati, Ohio 45231

To leave a question, become a member, volunteer, or to learn more about the organization contact us.

Your Gift Matters

$25

Donation Amount

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What is The Junior Melanin Collective?

The Junior Melanin Collective (JMC) is a dynamic and innovative organization that has emerged as a result of the merging of two successful youth programs, Evanston GEMS (2008) and Youth Leaders of Cincinnati (2012). The founders of Junior Melanin recognized the urgent need for additional support services for teenagers in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has had a significant impact on the mental and physical health of high school aged women of color.

Who can join The Junior Melanin Collective?

The Junior Melanin Collective is a group of youth members and adult mentors who desire personal development, positive relationships, and exploration of self and adventure. We welcome young African American women in grades 9-12. 

How to join The Junior Melanin Collective?

To join The Collective as a member or mentor simply call/text us at 513.616.2272 or email jrmelanin@gmail.com or click the application link on the home page.

Why focus on Social Determinants of Heath?

The Social Determinants of Health are based on social, personal, environmental, and economic factors that influence health status.  Many components impact our health such as genetics, where we live,  education, income, genetics, relationship with family and friends.
The Junior Melanin Collective's goal is to positively impact the social determinants of health for our members.  

Is there a cost to become a member?

There is a non refundable $25 application fee and an annual fee of $100.00 due at the time of application. Payment plans are available as needed.