ABOUT JLA
The Dr. Jeffery Lawrence August (JLA) Bridge Builder's Foundation is an IRS-recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We aim to provide college scholarships to deserving high school seniors from underserved communities and students previously in our mentoring program who seek to attend and graduate from the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Selected from a regional pool of applicants, up to 20 students will become JLA Bridge Builder's Scholars and have access to funding for up to four years of undergraduate studies.
Each award is intended to cover a significant share of the student's educational expenses—including tuition, living expenses, books, and required fees. Awards vary by individual, based on the cost of tuition and other grants or scholarships they may receive.
In addition to financial support, the JLA Bridge Builder's Foundation is committed to fostering academic and athletic enrichment within the Black community. Through mentorship, skill development, and access to resources, we aim to empower students to excel both in the classroom and on the field, ensuring a holistic approach to education and personal growth. Our goal is to nurture the next generation of leaders who will create lasting impacts in their communities.
2024
Mentee of The Year
MENTORING
Each One Teach One
ETIQUETTE
Teaching Soft Skills
Athletics
Excelling in the Classroom and the Field of Play
From Boyhood to Manhood
Tying the Famous Windsor Knot
Apply Now for the 2025 JLA Bridgebuilders Scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Graduate from a high school in the San Antonio area.
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Enroll or plan to enroll in an accredited college or university in the Summer or Fall of the awarded year.
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Intend to major in business, physical sciences, technology, engineering, or mathematics-related disciplines.
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Have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
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(2) letters of recommendation from a teacher, administrator, or community leader attesting to academic achievement, leadership, and character.
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Copy of college acceptance letter(s).
Application Deadline: May 1, 2025.
Scholarships will be awarded upon proof of full-time college registration.
MEDIA CENTER
A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
We would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our sponsors for their generous donations. Without their support, we would not be able to accomplish our mission and positively impact our community. Thanks to (Lawrence Belyeu, Charles Benson, Ed Berry, Steve Braimer, Noelia Broussard, Jerry Coburn, Clarence Coleman, Charles Benson, Jorn Cooper, Jarvis Ford, Robert & Gloria Gerard, Rufus Guillory, Jerry Hawkins, Derek Hilyer, Corey Mayers, Edward Moore, Herbert Nance, Tim Netters, Nena Rhynes, Linda Prosper, Kenneth Sells, Stafford Thompson Jr., Bill Watson, Danny Wedgeworth, Shawna White, Ahmad Whitted Psi Alpha Scholarship Foundation, H.E.B., Spurs Entertainment, & Whataburger )
We are fortunate to have such dedicated sponsors who believe in our cause and are willing to invest in our organization. Their contributions have helped us to provide essential services to those in need, and we are truly grateful for their support.
We would like to extend a special thank you to each of our sponsors for their contributions. Your generosity has made a significant difference in the lives of those we serve, and we could not have done it without you.
Once again, thank you to our sponsors for their unwavering support. We look forward to continuing our partnership and making a difference in our community.
Ahmad Whitted
2024
Mentor of the Year
BROTHERS IN THE COMMUNITY
The JLA Bridge Builders Mentors provided invaluable lessons in table etiquette and dressing for success to the youth. These essential skills empower young men to demonstrate respect and professionalism in various settings, from dining experiences to college recruitment events and business opportunities.
Our Impact
Hear firsthand from young men whose lives have been transformed by the JLA Bridge Builders Foundation. In these inspiring videos, participants share their personal experiences, highlighting the mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities they've gained through the program. Hear how the Bridge Builders Foundation has empowered them to overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and become leaders in their communities. Their stories are a testament to the lasting impact of JLA Bridge Builders in shaping futures and building a legacy of success.
The JLA BridgeBuilders Foundation S.T.E.M. Program
We provide comprehensive STEM education for disadvantaged students, utilizing an interdisciplinary approach designed to equip them for success in college and their future careers. Our focus is on hands-on, problem-based learning, empowering students to develop critical thinking and practical skills that will serve them throughout their academic journey and beyond.
Athletics
The JLA Bridgebuilders Foundation is dedicated to empowering young men to excel in high school, laying a strong foundation for college success. We recognize that athletic involvement is vital in fostering discipline, teamwork, and academic achievement. Through our comprehensive programs, JLA BridgeBuilders students actively participate in a variety of sports, with over 90% earning recruitment opportunities to prestigious 2- and 4-year colleges.
Meet Dr. August
"When I was going through my Doctorate program. I had to re-learn how to present and defend an argument. I had to recall my toastmasters training and use my public speaking tools to defend my dissertation. My dissertation was on training administrators in Central Texas to help Emotional Behavioral Disordered Students. This research helped me with my mentoring program."
Dr. Jeffery L. August
"Beyond the Lights"
Award Winner
"Your peers believe you embody the essence of the Beyond The Lights Award, having met our criteria, above and beyond. Your hard-work, dedication and impact in the community has not gone unnoticed. We, the Juneteenth Committee, we would like to shine a light on the things you have accomplished and the sacrifices you have made."
