Meet Jarriel Jordan, Sr., a retired Prince George’s County police officer and founder of Jacob’s Ladder, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves the community in Prince George’s County through educational programming and training that aims to reduce the number of juveniles entering or re-entering the juvenile justice system.
We had the opportunity to interview Jarriel about the mission behind his non-profit, its programs, what he enjoys most about his work and what’s next for the organization.
Tell us about Jacobs Ladder organization and the mission behind it?
Jacob’s Ladder faithfully serves our community through educational programming and training. Our mission is to educate and reduce the number of juveniles entering or re-entering the juvenile justice system. We specialize in youth development, family strengthening, and building a stronger community.
How does your personal background influence the way you run the non-profit?
As the founder of Jacob’s Ladder, my deep roots in Prince George’s County have played a critical role in shaping the mission and vision of the organization. I was raised, educated, and have always been employed in this community. Over the years, I have raised my family and owned businesses here, giving me a strong connection and passion for improving the lives of its residents.
After serving 23 years with the Prince George’s County Police Department and retiring in 2019, I have gained a unique perspective on the needs and challenges faced by vulnerable populations in our county. My years of public service have allowed me to work closely with the community, understanding firsthand the importance of support systems for those in need, especially low to moderate-income families, seniors, veterans, and the homeless.
What kind of services, programs and offerings does Jacob’s Ladder offer?
Our ongoing programs include: Stand Up & Deliver Extended, Juvenile Reentry, Diversion, Academic Enrichment, Trade Career Academy and Junior Workforce Academy.
Stand Up & Deliver Extended
Addresses food insecurity in Prince George’s County. We will distribute over 380,000 meals and groceries through December 2024.
Juvenile Reentry Program
Our Juvenile Reentry Program reduces crime and recidivism. This program is designed for juveniles pending release from detention centers or those who have been recently released.
Diversion Program
Our Diversion Program is for juveniles referred by the community or introduced to the juvenile justice system. Our goal is to provide juveniles and their families with effective strategies to end patterns of destructive behavior before criminal arrests or adulthood.
Academic Enrichment
Our Academic Enrichment Program provides youth with educational support throughout the year. We target students with high rates of truancy, absenteeism, and suspensions.
We have included STEM in our Academic Enrichment curriculum. STEM is taught through motorsports, aviation, and music technology.
Trade Career Academy
Certified tradesmen introduce participants to various trade careers. Our Trade Career Academy helps teens develop future plans, reducing crime, poverty, and chronic underemployment in our communities.
Junior Workforce Academy
We are determined to develop the next generation of career-ready, financially responsible citizens. Our goal is to prepare 14- to 18-year-old youth to compete for employment and introduce them to entrepreneurship.
What do you hope to accomplish with this organization?
We aim to build sustainable communities by reducing crime, poverty, and chronic underemployment. Additionally, our programs promote education, character building, life skills, and workforce training to inspire self-sufficiency and create productive futures.
Have there been any proud moments during your time running the organization?
In 2024, we were named the lead organization for the Stand Up & Deliver Extended, which addresses food insecurity in Prince George’s County. We will distribute over 380,000 prepared meals and grocery boxes to the most vulnerable residents in Prince George’s County experiencing food insecurities to include seniors, limited income and low to moderate income individuals and families, veterans, the homeless, and those with disabilities.
Where do you envision taking the organization in the future?
We will continue our ongoing youth programming to address education, reduce crime, and strengthen families. Additionally, we will expand our food program.
We plan to become a certified school by the State of Maryland, offering a curriculum that includes various trade career certification tracks. Trade careers are expected to experience significant growth over the next decade. Our goal is to prepare future generations for this growth, providing them with additional workforce skills and employment opportunities.
We also plan to expand our food program across the entire state of Maryland to address food insecurity. By partnering with large food banks, we aim to extend our reach and continue feeding our communities.
What do you enjoy most about running Jacobs Ladder?
I find the greatest fulfillment in providing meaningful programs for youth and families that offer hope and create a positive impact on our community. Through our initiatives at Jacob’s Ladder, we strive to empower individuals by addressing critical needs such as food insecurity, educational support, and community engagement. By fostering hope and resilience, we help shape a brighter future for those we serve, which is the driving force behind our work.
Find out more information about this non-profit at https://www.jacobsladderyouth.org
