JOY Foundation hosts Pinnacle Awards

Special to the Journal

The Jumpstarting Our Youth (JOY) Foundation presented its first Pinnacle Awards Program at Flint Energies on April 26. The event celebrated individuals and business partners who have demonstrated excellence and commitment to the community youth. The Foundation recognized three levels of achievements: Fine Arts Scholarship winner, Man of the Year recipient, and Dream Job Apprenticeship Program business partnership.

Cody Jones, a 2013 graduating senior of Warner Robins High School, was awarded the Fine Arts scholarship. Students with special talents and interests are recognized through scholarships in one of these focus areas: arts, music, and theatre. This year’s fine arts focus was in the area of artwork and graphic design.

JOY’s 2013 Man of the Year Award was presented to Sheldon Hogan, who was noted for enriching the lives of youth through education, civic and recreational activities. The primary purpose of this award is to increase the awareness of the impact men have on youth as they help mold and shape their future.

The Foundation implemented their summer enrichment project, Dream Job Apprenticeship Program, last June. This program gives youth between the ages of 14-16 an opportunity to explore different careers while being mentored by various companies’ employees. Roshunda Calhoun, a State Farm agent, was on hand to receive her award.

Artworks of Eric Lane of Marshallville were on display as well as art pieces of students from the Fort Valley State University Fine Arts Department under the leadership of Bobby Dickey.

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