Kashawra Jennings
Dedicated Inspirational Leader in Texas
Professional Summary
I am a dedicated and results-oriented leader with a strong passion for community development and child advocacy. Based in Texas, I have over 25 years of experience in volunteering and mentorship, driven by the core belief that a community's collective effort shapes a child's future. My work is focused on creating opportunities and providing resources to empower the next generation.
A Passion for Mentorship and Community
For over two and a half decades, I have immersed myself in various communities and causes, with a consistent focus on organizations that support child development and education. Rather than affiliating with a single group, I lend my skills wherever they are most needed, assessing the unique needs of each initiative to offer support in the most beneficial way. This versatile experience has ranged from hands-on event coordination to offering specialized expertise.
My commitment to youth empowerment led me to found an unincorporated nonprofit program, G.I.R.L.S., five years ago. As the sole founder and volunteer, I created and implemented a curriculum based on the core values of Growth, Intelligence, Respect, Leadership, and Self-Love. The mission has been to provide a safe, supportive space for young women. My responsibilities have included everything from providing essential resources to developing personalized plans for each girl's unique journey.
Over these five years, I have had the privilege of being a consistent, positive role model. The program has since grown to include seven girls, and I am proud to share that two of my first participants are graduating high school this year. A key part of the program's success is its self-sustaining nature; older participants now mentor the younger ones, fostering a powerful cycle of support and leadership within the group.
Education and Future Goals
My academic journey has provided a strong foundation for my work. I hold a degree in Liberal Arts and am currently completing a degree in Business Administration. My ultimate goal is to leverage this diverse educational background to become a Civil Rights lawyer. I am committed to being a powerful voice for underrepresented children and their families, fighting to break down systemic barriers and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. I believe my combined experience in community leadership, mentorship, and education will allow me to effectively advocate for those who need it most.
Connect with the G.I.R.L.S. Program
We are always looking to connect with families who are interested in our program. To learn more about our mission and impact, please see the video below.
How to Become a Civil Rights Lawyer
Becoming a Civil Rights lawyer requires a specific educational and professional path. The first step is to earn a bachelor's degree, ideally in a field that develops strong research, writing, and critical thinking skills like history, political science, or sociology. After that, you must attend and graduate from an accredited law school, which typically takes three years. During law school, focusing on courses like constitutional law, civil rights litigation, and public interest law is crucial. Many aspiring Civil Rights lawyers also gain experience through internships with legal aid societies, non-profit organizations, or government agencies. After graduating, you must pass the bar exam in the state where you wish to practice. While some Civil Rights lawyers work for private firms, many dedicate their careers to public interest work, serving as a powerful voice for those who have been marginalized.
Check out this link for more information https://www.usnews.com/education/articles/how-to-choose-a-civil-rights-law-school