Kiesha Jackson
Chief Executive Officer, Caleb’s Kids
Chief Executive Officer, Caleb’s Kids
Kiesha Jackson: Transforming Grief into Action with Caleb’s Kids
In the bustling city of Detroit, Kiesha Jackson is more than just a CEO and founder; she’s a force for change and hope. Through her nonprofit organization, Caleb’s Kids, Keisha has dedicated herself to addressing the critical issue of youth mental health—a cause close to her heart.
Kiesha’s journey with Caleb’s Kids began in 2016, following the heartbreaking loss of her brother Caleb to suicide in 2015. Devastated by the loss and left with unanswered questions, Kiesha channeled her grief into action. “He didn’t leave any notes behind,” she recalls, “and I had so many questions.” Determined to prevent other families from experiencing similar pain, Kiesha founded Caleb’s Kids to raise awareness and provide support for youth mental health issues.
From Corporate America to Community Advocacy
Prior to starting Caleb’s Kids, Kiesha had a successful career in human resources, managing employee relations across multiple states. Her professional experience gave her insight into the mental health challenges faced by employees, but it was her personal experience with Caleb’s passing that ignited her passion for mental health advocacy.
Initially starting as a part-time endeavor while maintaining her full-time job, Kiesha faced challenges trying to impact her hometown of Detroit from afar while living in Ohio. Despite these obstacles, Kiesha’s commitment and determination led to the gradual growth of Caleb’s Kids, laying the foundation for its future impact.
Nurturing Growth and Overcoming Challenges
As Caleb’s Kids gained momentum, Kiesha made the bold decision to leave her corporate career behind in early 2020 to focus on the nonprofit full-time. Little did she anticipate the global pandemic that would pose significant challenges to nonprofits worldwide. “I took a leap of faith,” Kiesha reflects, “and the pandemic hit just as we were gaining momentum.” Despite setbacks, including the loss of expected funding opportunities, Kiesha’s resilience and resourcefulness kept Caleb’s Kids operational.
Impacting Lives and Building a Brighter Future
Today, Caleb’s Kids stands as a beacon of hope in Detroit, offering culturally relevant mental wellness programs that fill crucial gaps in traditional education systems. Through workshops and partnerships with therapists and community organizations, Caleb’s Kids continues to expand its reach and impact on the lives of Detroit’s youth.
Kiesha’s journey exemplifies the power of turning personal tragedy into meaningful action. From a grief-stricken sister seeking answers to a community leader empowering Detroit’s youth, Keisha Jackson and Caleb’s Kids embody resilience, hope, and a steadfast belief in providing every young person with the support and resources needed for mental well-being.
Looking forward, Keisha remains focused on Caleb’s Kids’ mission. “We need to equip young people with the tools to manage life’s challenges effectively,” she emphasizes. With Kiesha Jackson at the helm, Caleb’s Kids is not only changing lives but also shaping a brighter future for Detroit and beyond.
For more information about Caleb’s Kids visit calebskids.org today.
Historically, nonprofits have done a great job publicly recognizing and celebrating their largest financial donors. Company logos are easily visible on websites, brochures, and other marketing materials; however, while we all know financial support is imperative for impact, there are other individuals whose contributions to our missions are priceless.
There are many community members, students, and volunteers who may not have donated enough dollars to make our donor wall, but their impact is just as valuable. Therefore, through this campaign, we’re spotlighting 10 of the most inspirational individuals who have had an unmatched impact on the success of our Life Remodeled projects.
