2025: A Year to SHINE

As we step into 2025, the SHINE With Joy Foundation is filled with hope, excitement, and a commitment to our mission. This year marks an incredible opportunity to establish ourselves as a vibrant force within the community and to embrace the endless possibilities ahead. With the theme "2025: A Year to SHINE," we’re focused on laying strong foundations while spreading joy and empowering changemakers.

If you enjoy these updates, be sure to subscribe to get them directly to your inbox in the future (promise we won’t send you more than 1-2 a month!).

-clayton

New Year, New Goals

The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on what’s ahead. For the SHINE With Joy Foundation, 2025 is about gaining our footing—establishing ourselves as a vibrant presence of joy within the community and a beacon of support for those striving to make a difference. Our mission of creating positive change and spreading joy will always guide every decision we make, and we’re excited to take meaningful steps forward this year.

A Year of Empowerment

One of our biggest goals for 2025 is to start empowering changemakers in a tangible way. We’re proudly announcing that we will award scholarships and grants in each of our four focus areas:

  • STEM Education: Supporting Black women and girls pursuing education and careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.

  • Maternal Health Equity: Advancing initiatives that close the maternal health gap for Black and Brown mothers.

  • Yoga Education: Helping individuals achieve yoga teacher certifications to foster wellness and mindfulness in their communities.

  • Spreading Joy: Recognizing and uplifting individuals or organizations that inspire happiness and connection.

Details on the application process and criteria will be shared in the coming weeks. While small this first year, these scholarships and grants represent a cornerstone of Krystal’s legacy, and we’re honored to continue her joyful impact by supporting others who are making a positive impact.

Events to Build Community

Community connection is at the heart of SHINE With Joy. We’re in the early stages of planning, but this year we will host our first signature event, which we hope will become a hallmark of the Foundation in the years to come. While the details are still being worked through, we envision an event that celebrates joy, inspires action, and brings people together to support our mission.

In addition to the annual event, we’re also planning smaller community-based gatherings throughout the year. These might include yoga sessions, workshops, or service projects that provide opportunities to connect, collaborate, and spread joy in everyday ways. Keep an eye on our updates page and social media channels for announcements about these events.

Laying the Foundation for the Future

As a new organization, 2025 is about building our foundation—both figuratively and literally. This year, we’ll focus on:

  • Strengthening our community presence.

  • Forming meaningful partnerships with like-minded organizations.

  • Gaining the resources and support needed to ensure our long-term impact.

It’s a year of growth and learning, but most importantly, it’s a year to shine—for Krystal, for the community, and for the changemakers we aim to empower.

Looking Ahead

We’re incredibly excited for the journey ahead and invite you to join us in making 2025 A Year to SHINE. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or simply sharing our story, your involvement helps us spread Krystal’s light and joy far and wide.

Let’s make this year one to remember—a year of progress, connection, and empowerment. Together, we can transform sparks into shining moments that inspire generations to come.

Previous
Previous

Shining a Light on Black Women in STEM

Next
Next

Introducing The SHINE With Joy Foundation