Launch A Dream

Why is it that some young men reach their goals and others fail to thrive? Education is the key.  Jamal Linyear is a 20-year-old committed to getting a college education. His life’s story includes emerging from foster care in rural Pennsylvania, bonding with his forever family, working part-time and recently graduating from Richmond Hill High School near Savannah, GA. 
 
Jamal made the most of high school by playing soccer, working at Dairy Queen and taking a Business Pathway in order to be a competitive college applicant.  Each summer, Jamal participated in sports or academic camps that included earning college credits at Colorado State University and Calvin College before 12th grade. Jamal has volunteered at his church and in the community at a food pantry and senior citizen center.

Jamal began his college studies at Flagler College in St. Augustine, FL.  He took classes in Introduction to Literature, Financial Accounting, Introduction to Political Thought, Algebra, and Introduction to The Old Testament.  Jamal continued to play on the Quidditch team and traveled to the University of Florida to play against its team.  He also performed community service with the St. Augustine Wild Reserve. However, due to money owed to Flagler College, Jamal was unable to resume his studies.

In July 2018, Jamal began working for City Year Miami, an AmeriCorps program.  He was assigned to Redland Middle School in Homestead, FL and led small group instruction and tutoring in language arts.  Jamal was also the Extended Learning Coordinator and organized the Game Club and cultural events.

Jamal is now in his second and last year with City Year Miami.  He is a Team Lead at Homestead Middle School.  In this role he oversees and provides feedback to his team members.  Jamal runs team meetings and communicates with school administrators.    Jamal is grateful for his City Year Miami experience because he feels that it has helped him with organizational, communication, time, and financial management.

Jamal plans on resuming his college studies in the Fall of 2020.  He is considering transferring to University of West Georgia, Georgia State University, or Florida International University.  He is interested in working in the public transportation sector and studying marketing and public administration.  However, Jamal needs $6408 to pay his debt with Flagler College so that transcripts can be sent to prospective schools.  Financial or otherwise, any support is greatly appreciated.  If you can donate, please visit www.gofundme.com/launchjamal.