SERVING ALL VESSELS EQUALLY

Pen or Pencil, a program of the National Alliance of Faith & Justice (NAFJ), is a social action and educational movement designed to influence the lives of youth at greatest risk of academic failure and potential incarceration. "Pen" is short for penitentiary; 'Pencil" refers to education. In 2025, the NAFJ classified a new program called "hustlepreneur " a hustlepreneur is an ambitious individual who turns their passion into profit by combining creative, relentless work with strategic business building. They often manage multiple projects and transform side gigs or hobbies into sustainable revenue, especially in emerging economies or the gig economy. To this end, we developed the "POP" program (Pushing our Power). Our program supported eight youth by having Chef Jeff Henderson talk to the students about his life experiences and the model he uses for his famous catering business. Through Chef Jeff Henderson's mentorship, students gained practical insights into entrepreneurship, learned valuable business strategies, and were inspired to pursue their own ventures.

The Youth Counsel for Justice is a youth-led, adult supported social justice organization that empowers youth ages 8-18 on how to express themselves and are encouraged to take appropriate action on the issues that affect their lives. Issue awareness forums are conducted at school and advocacy campaigns are initiated to bring the identified concerns to light.