How Foster & Banks Walk in Faith Foundation is Changing Lives Through Community and Sustainability

Written by Dr. Jamila Banks, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Jamila Banks is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, transformational life coach, and founder of the Foster & Banks Walk in Faith Foundation and CEOME LLC. She specializes in holistic personal development, mental health advocacy, and empowering individuals to thrive through resilience and purpose.

In the heart of Los Angeles and Riverside, where challenges often overshadow opportunities, Foster & Banks Walk in Faith Foundation is a beacon of hope. We’re on a mission to uplift at-risk youth and their families by providing essential resources, mentorship, and unwavering support. By restoring the village mentality, we believe we can rebuild communities, one life at a time.

Why our youth need us now more than ever

Imagine being a young person navigating life’s toughest obstacles with little to no guidance. It’s easy to feel lost, unseen, and hopeless. That’s why Foster & Banks Walk in Faith Foundation exists: to provide a one-stop networking hub where youth can find mentorship, resources, and the support they need to thrive. From leadership programs to community outreach, we’re here to bridge gaps and open doors of opportunity. At Foster & Banks, we firmly believe that everyone has their own gifts, talents, and testimony. When we share our journeys, we uplift not just ourselves but entire communities.

Our core initiative: Walk n faith go green

One of our flagship programs, the Walk N Faith Go Green Initiative, teaches young people the power of environmental responsibility in their daily lives, where they live, worship, work, and play. By promoting sustainability and awareness, we empower youth to take an active role in building a cleaner, greener future. Through hands-on training, workshops, and community engagement, they develop the confidence and skills needed to make a lasting impact.

More than just a foundation, a lifeline for the community

While the Walk N Faith Go Green Initiative is a flagship program, the foundation offers an array of supportive services tailored to meet the needs of underserved youth and families. These include:

We don’t just talk about change; we create it. Here are some of the powerful programs we offer:

• Teen Talk Mentorship Program: A safe, judgment-free space where teenagers can connect with mentors, openly discuss challenges, and receive guidance to navigate life’s ups and downs.  Sign up here.

• Anger Support Program: Designed to help youth and young adults learn healthy coping mechanisms to manage anger and emotions productively. Register today.

• Mentorship and Life Skills Training: Guiding young people toward positive life choices and career paths.

• Academic Support and Tutoring: Ensuring that students receive the assistance they need to excel.

• Mental Health and Wellness Programs: Addressing the emotional and psychological challenges faced by at-risk youth.

• Job Readiness and Workforce Development: Equipping individuals with the skills and resources needed to secure stable employment.

Real stories, real impact

Our programs aren’t just ideas; they transform lives. Here’s what Martha Sherod, Branch Manager at Vermont Square Branch Library, had to say about our work:

“I’ve been working with Jamila Banks and the Foster & Banks Walk in Faith Foundation since July of 2013. During this time, Jamila has led our Friends of the Library Vermont Square Branch group by faithfully recruiting new members, handling nonprofit paperwork, and raising funds to enhance our youth programs. Because of her dedication, we’ve been able to provide a safe, fun, and educational environment for kids and their families. For three years, the Foundation sponsored an annual literacy event at the library, focusing on reading and environmental care. The kids engaged in activities that emphasized recycling, reducing, and reusing. It’s been a privilege working with Jamila and her organization; she is a true role model and inspiration to our community.”

Want to be part of a success story? Join us and make a difference.\

How you can help

We cannot do this alone. Your support means everything. Every donation, every volunteer, and every sponsorship fuels our mission to empower youth, transform communities, and restore hope. Here’s how you can make a real impact:

• Donate Today: Every contribution, big or small, helps us reach more youth in need. Click here to donate.

• Become a Volunteer: Be the mentor, role model, or helping hand that changes a young person’s future. Sign up to volunteer.

• Sponsor a Program: Whether you’re an individual, business, or organization, your sponsorship can leave a lasting impact on countless lives. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities.

Join the movement

At Foster & Banks Walk in Faith Foundation, we’re not just serving individuals; we’re transforming entire communities. Whether you choose to donate, mentor, or volunteer, your involvement matters.

Don’t wait; be the change today. Donate now and help us empower the next generation.

Together, we can restore hope, uplift youth, and build a brighter future. Let’s walk in faith, hand in hand.

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Read more from Dr. Jamila Banks

Dr. Jamila Banks, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Jamila Banks is a transformational leader, licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Founder of the Foster & Banks Walk in Faith Foundation and CEOME LLC. Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, she overcame adversity to become a champion for holistic transformation, empowering individuals and families to thrive. With a background in mental health, community advocacy, and personal development, Jamila combines professional expertise with her personal journey to inspire change. Her mission: to help others turn challenges into opportunities and lead fulfilling lives filled with purpose and resilience.