PROJECTS

CLASS CROWNS

Designed to reach and motivate at-risk students, this tutoring program focuses on the reading skills of third graders. The goal of this project is to help students advance in their studies, boost their confidence, and give each student the attention and love needed to reach their full potential.

CLOTHES CLOSET

School-age children with inadequate clothing are referred to the JA Clothes Closet. Basic wardrobe needs, including shoes and underwear, are provided from a supply of donated or newly purchased items. Each fall, JA holds a coat drive in local schools. The goal is to help each child have a more positive outlook by having proper clothing for school.

DRAMA QUEENS

Drama Queens is a traveling theater show produced exclusively by the Junior Auxiliary of Tupelo. Targeting students in kindergarten through second grade, the shows are performed in both Tupelo and Lee County schools. JA members use short plays to address topics including bullying, cyber safety, or health and nutrition. Educational materials are provided to teachers and students to reinforce the subject matter. The enjoyable skits provide positive messages. JA also works with the Salvation Army to provide Christmas gifts to eligible children who have aged-out of the Angel Tree program.

SCHOOL AID

School supplies and eyeglasses are provided to needy school children in Tupelo and Lee County. Through the generosity of the local medical and dental communities, JA is able to assist children whose school experiences are being compromised by minor health problems. Teachers, school nurses, or school counselors refer the children.

SCHOLARSHIP

To promote continuing education, Junior Auxiliary of Tupelo awards annual scholarships based on need and merit to high school seniors through the Margaret- Gardner Scholarship Fund. The Mary Elizabeth Williams Scholarship Fund provides summer camp opportunities for children of working parents who need quality summer day care and enables some Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to attend their camps. The National Association of Junior Auxiliaries also offers financial assistance to graduate students pursuing degrees in child-related fields.

SILENT SERVINGS

Working with school counselors in a behind-the-scenes manner, JA provides packs of food for at-risk children to take home over the weekends to supplement insufficient diets.

SHINE (STRONG, HEALTHY, INDEPENDENT, NON-JUDGMENTAL, EMPOWERED)

This weeklong summer camp for girls entering the seventh grade promotes positive self-esteem through devotions, drama, art, physical exercise, group discussions, and mostly fun! Community members, as well as JA members, lead these informative activities.

SMART (SCHOLARSHIP, MENTORING, AND RESOURCE TRAINING)

This two-year mentoring program for girls beginning their junior year at Tupelo High School focuses on assistance with ACT prep, college and scholarship applications, and life skills. The goal is to ensure that each student is prepared for her “next steps” after high school and has the resources necessary to reach her full potential.

WAVE (WISDOM, ATTITUDE, VIRTUE, ENTHUSIASM)

During this summer camp, upcoming seventh-grade boys are encouraged to participate in activities that promote high self-esteem, positive attitudes, and healthier bodies and minds. Local volunteers and law enforcement are enlisted to motivate and encourage the boys to make good choices.

LET OUR HANDS DO THE WORK OF YOUR HEART

The Junior Auxiliary of Tupelo believes that each child is important. Through many projects, our members share love, time, and resources needed to help each child be his or her best. As we spread our efforts and love among these children, we envision their roles in the development of our community.