In the Spotlight

Prom Dreams Alumna Update: Catching Up with Jazzminn Henry

After my “Prom Dreams” came true, I graduated from Cabrillo High School (class of 2010) and attended California State University, Fresno where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Social Work (class of 2014). I continued my education and earned my Master of Social Work at California State University, Northridge.

For the past five years, I’ve worked as a Children’s Social Worker (CSW) for the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. At my career onset, I worked as a Continuing Services worker which is generally case management. I worked closely with children and their parents, conducting monthly child safety visits and meeting with parents to assist them with services and staying on a path for successful reunification with their child(ren).

Recently, my position transitioned to where I am working primarily with resource parents (formerly known as foster parents) and resource families. I ensure homes are meeting child safety requirements and are suitable for the placement of children and adolescents.

With such a busy career, self-care is very important to me. So when I’m away from work, I like to spend time with my daughter Jazarah (4), taking her on outings and exploring things together. I also write poetry and am involved in ministry with my church.

After graduating high school, I’ve maintained close contact with my former mentor Ellen Schwartz. Over the years, I changed referencing her as my “former mentor” to my “forever mentor” — believe it or not, she still mentors me.

I truly believe in the power of mentorship and the impact one person can make on a youth’s life. I want to be to the difference for someone that Ellen has been to me. I’ve always had this fiery desire to give back to the community. So, this year, I returned to and am volunteering with the Operation Jump Start (OJS) mentorship program in Long Beach where Ellen and I were matched. Furthermore, I am in process of being matched with my very own mentee!

I am beyond excited for this next journey in my life. I couldn’t be more grateful to be where I am today. It was no easy road getting here; I’ve overcome many adversities. What I want to share with the youth today is:

Live in Faith, not in Fear.
Believe in YOURSELF!
And keep fighting the good fight because there is a win in the end!

November 2021