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".
Harry Belafonte and Sankofa.org
Andrew Joseph III
We promote self-empowerment, education and instructions to properly interact and engage with law enforcement.