JRF Scholars are required to perform community service throughout college, as much to enrich their lives as to impact those whom they serve. JRF Scholars are encouraged to embrace the following core values that reflect the life and legacy of Jackie Robinson:
98%
Graduation Rate
2,200+
Scholars and Alumni
$121.5M
In Grants
316
Colleges & Universities AttendedCore Values of a JRF Scholar
Discipline
Meet responsibilities consistently and commit to the diligence needed to achieve success.
Integrity
Always be guided by facts. Acknowledge the truth even when it compromises one’s own interests.
Humility
Recognize that we are all created equal. Be quick to compliment, slow to blame, and modest in the wake of accomplishment.
Compassion
Advance human dignity for all. Practice empathy and generosity toward others.
Courage
Strive to abide by the core values, however difficult or unpopular.
Program Elements
42 Strategies for Success Curriculum
Just as important as financial assistance are the extensive support services that JRF Scholars receive throughout their college careers. JRF equips Scholars with a comprehensive set of support services, including curriculum guidance, career mentoring, internship placement, and a host of practical life skills and leadership training to help them succeed both academically and in life.
Online and Regional Programming
JRF provides year-round webinars and on-site workshops that develop effective study habits, practical life skills, strong character traits, and leadership. JRF Scholars are afforded opportunities to practice and hone these skills through networking, participating in public events, engagement in national and local media, and other ambassadorial platforms facilitated by JRF.
Hands-on Mentoring Services
JRF believes in providing mentorship opportunities to meet the individual needs of Scholars as they navigate college, face challenges, and prepare for opportunities post-graduation. JRF staff, volunteer Scholar Advisory Committee (SAC) members, corporate and university partners, community leaders and JRF Alumni provide mentoring to JRF Scholars on an individualized, year-round basis.
Internship / Job Placement
JRF sponsors and institutional partners offer valuable career opportunities to JRF Scholars, providing internships, permanent employment, and exposure to a rich network of professionals. JRF staff work on a customized basis with corporations, community leaders, government agencies, and other employers to identify “good fit” job opportunities and prepare Scholars to become leaders in a global economy.
Community Service Requirement
JRF Scholars are required to perform community service work throughout their JRF experience. Scholars must document the specifics of their service work and keep all accounts on file with JRF staff. Through these efforts, JRF Scholars gain practical skills and self-confidence and, in turn, impact the lives of thousands who benefit each year from the vast number of projects and work undertaken.
Rachel Robinson International Fellowship
The Rachel Robinson International Fellowship (RRIF) Program was established in 2008 with a generous grant from the Sheila C. Johnson Foundation to support international service and study opportunities for JRF Scholars. RRIF participants may use the grant for a variety of initiatives, such as a study abroad program, philanthropic efforts, or in conjunction with an approved internship abroad.
Extra Innings Fellowship
The Extra Innings Fellowship (EIF) Program was conceived of and funded by a generous endowed gift from The Windmill Foundation to help highly motivated JRF Scholars fund the cost of advanced professional or graduate training. EIF promotes the study of a broad range of topics and disciplines that address communities in need both across the country and around the world.
Mentoring and Leadership Conference
A key component of JRF’s robust curriculum is its annual four-day Mentoring and Leadership Conference (MLC), hosted for all JRF Scholars and held in New York City. The MLC coincides with the annual JRF Alumni reunion, also held in NYC, which allows for important mentoring and networking between Scholars and alumni.
During the meticulously orchestrated MLC conference each year, JRF Scholars: (1) participate in career exploration, practical life skills training, and leadership development workshops; (2) network with dozens of community leaders, corporate executives, and government officials; (3) engage through cultural, recreational, and community service outings; and (4) interact with JRF staff, sponsors and alumni, as well members of JRF’s extensive volunteer corps known as Scholar Advisory Committees (SAC).
The MLC is a highlight of JRF’s year-round mentoring efforts and culminates in JRF Scholars attending the Foundation’s Annual Robie Awards Dinner, traditionally held on the first Monday of March. Smaller regional events and gatherings are held throughout the year.
2021 Conference Attendees smile before Day 1