The Andrew Joseph Foundation mission is to protect the rights and safety of all children by advocating for systemic change, providing education on conflict resolution, and nonviolent communication and supporting families affected by children’s rights violations, and acts of violence. We honor the memory of 14 year old, Andrew Joseph, III by working to prevent the tragedies of the past from being repeated, striving to create a world where every child is safe, valued, and treated with dignity.
AJF began to transform a tragedy into a turning point. On February 7, 2014 during the Florida State Fair, 14 year old Andrew Joseph, III a student was attending a school district supported fair with friends and was struck and killed by a motorist as he tried to cross Interstate 4 on foot after being wrongfully detained, ejected, transported and then abandoned miles from the fair by law enforcement officials with no call to parents. This unbelievable tragic event inspired Andrew's parents to found AJF and to become tireless advocates around the nation.
A child dies from a preventable injury every 30 seconds.
AJF serves as advocates of safe communities for children, youth, and young adults. The agency does so through advocacy, education, legal referrals and coordination of resources. The organization will serve as a catalyst for system change and dialogue on priority safety first parameters.
We offer educational programs on "Know Your Rights" and "Stay Safe" campaigns. We provide outreach and speak out forums for students, parents, advocates, schools and community partners. We provide Safety First and Preventable Death and Injuries education to the public through teen summits and global forums.
Look for our upcoming publications titled "Play It Safe" and "We Remember Andrew Joseph, III" billboard message board "All Children Have the Right to Be Free".
The Andrew Joseph Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring their safety established in memory of 14-year-old Andrew Joseph, III who tragically lost his life due to the negligence of state entities.
The foundation works to prevent such tragedies from happening to other families the foundation focuses on providing education in conflict resolution, advocating for the rights of children, promoting non violent communication and offering support to families who have experience children’s rights, violations through community outreach, public awareness campaigns and educational programs.
The foundation seeks to create a safer environment for all children, while honoring the legacy of Andrew Joseph, III. Our commitment extends to collaborating with likeminded organizations, policymakers, and communities to drive systemic change ensuring accountability and justice for all children.
The foundation also provides resources and emotional assistance to families impacted by similar injustices, helping them navigate the challenges that arise in the aftermath of such traumatic events.
The team at the Andrew Joseph Foundation comprises of a dedicated group of passionate advocates, educators, and community leaders who are committed to advancing children’s rights and safety, guided by the memory of 14-year-old Andrew Joseph, III each team member brings a unique blend of expertise, experience and compassion to the foundations mission.
Our team includes professionals with backgrounds in law, education, social work and community organizing, all working together to drive systemic change, empower families and create safer communities. With a shared vision of safety, accountability and healing, the team collaborate closely with partner organizations, families and policymakers to ensure that every child is protected and respected.
Our members are not only dedicated to their roles with the foundation but also to the broader movement for social justice, making a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families.
Over 50% of our organization’s Board is comprised of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) members (non-White).
Our Focus Areas:
Education
Democracy & Civic Engagement
Human & Civil Rights / Liberties
Children's Safety and Rights:
We provide education on conflict resolution, non-violent communication, and legal rights to empower youth and prevent violence.
Support for Families:
We offer resources and support to families of survivors, helping them navigate the challenges of seeking justice and healing.
Community Engagement:
Our foundation hosts various events, including school supply giveaways, memorial weekends, and community discussions, to honor the memory of Andrew Joseph III and others like him, while also promoting safety and unity.
Strategies:
Advocacy, Base Building, Direct Action, Direct Service, Education, Healing / Restorative Justice
Communities Engaged:
Black, Caribbean, Jewish, LGBTQ+, People of African Descent, People who are Justice-involved
Organization Scopes:
National, State
States / Territories Engaged:
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi
Harry Belafonte and Sankofa.org
Andrew Joseph III
We promote self-empowerment, education and instructions to properly interact and engage with law enforcement.
The Andrew Joseph Foundation is a 501(c)(3).
Tax ID is 46-5652483.