Building Bright Futures: JRF's Inspiring Journey with OFOB

In the heart of Brent, Jason Roberts Foundation stands tall in investing into local communities of Stonebridge, working towards youth development, wellbeing and community-building.

Turning dreams into reality

Martene Carroll, the Programme Coordinator at JRF, speaks of the impactful transformative journey the organisation undertakes under OFOB. "We always loved to deliver school holiday programmes – OFOB funding has enabled us to deliver such programmes every year," she shares. These programmes are not just about entertainment; they are about inclusivity and community-building, ensuring that no child is left behind. With free meals supplied and exciting trips organised, JRF creates consistency of their work the parents and the community can deeply rely on.

Real Talk: Passport to Succes

Through the Real Talk programme supported by OFOB, JRF opens doors to volunteering opportunities and accredited training, particularly within the sports industry. "The sessions have enabled us to become more targeted and focused. We now offer a diverse range of activities for all young people which can elevate their potential and future careers." Professional athletes often attend JRF’s sessions; one of the most recent sportsmen was Emile Heskey, a former professional footballer.

Alongside Real Talk, JRF also organises the Your Say programme, creating focus groups that recognise the unifying power of sports in bringing young hearts together. "Working with some of the young people for many years, we have seen them grow up into inspiring individuals with a lot to offer. This knowledge has allowed us to understand their stories better and tailor the programme to their needs," Martene reflects, highlighting the deep bond between JRF and its beneficiaries. Through volunteering, young participants gain invaluable leadership skills, paving the way for accredited training in youth coaching.

Facilitating cross-organisational collaboration

Collaboration lies at the heart of OFOB’s aims. Through established partnerships and continuous engagement with other delivery partners, JRF creates even more opportunities for young people. “There is never a month we do not organise at least one event," Martene affirms. JRF is also currently focusing on delivering female-targeted programmes such as The Girls Heritage Project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and a Girls Tag Rugby Project. The programmes, focusing on gender inclusivity and empowerment, will bring the girls and young women together even more. "Engaging young ladies is one of the areas we would like to target better," Martene adds.

Through their ongoing efforts, JRF shapes futures and destinies of Brent youth. With every session, every programme, and every interaction, the organisation creates the needed space for the youth to grow. "We hope our sessions bring young people more focused career aspirations and opportunities in their lives," Martene concludes.