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Jenkins Youth & Family Village Logo
Jenkins Youth & Family Village Logo

(Formally Known As Jenkins Orphanage)

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Founder of Jenkins Orphanage 

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From its founding as Jenkins Orphanage to today’s Jenkins Youth & Family Village, our organization has provided hope and opportunities for children and families for more than a century. Rooted in compassion and strengthened through the power of music and community, Jenkins continues to shape brighter futures while honoring a remarkable legacy that helped influence the birth of jazz.

Jenkins Youth & Family Village History

Jenkins Board Announces Interim Executive Director

Ja'nister Herring

Following the passing of our beloved Executive Director, Tammy J. McCottry, our Board of Directors has appointed Ja'nister Herring to serve as Interim Executive Director.

During this time of remembrance and transition, Ja'nister Herring will work closely with staff, board members, and our community to ensure continuity of our mission and programs while the organization begins the process of identifying long-term leadership.

We are deeply grateful for the support and compassion our community has shown in honoring Tammy McCottry's legacy.

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💙A Sea of Blue, 
A Promise of Hope 

In honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Evening Exchange Club of Charleston has launched a meaningful display at Jenkins Youth and Family Village—a sea of blue pinwheels, each symbolizing a childhood filled with hope, love, and the simple joys every child deserves.

As the pinwheels spin in the wind, they remind us of our collective responsibility to protect, nurture, and support the children in our community. This display is not just symbolic; it's a call to action.

We are committed to raising awareness, strengthening families, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, loving environment. Let these pinwheels inspire all of us to be advocates, to speak up, and to be the village every child needs.

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National Youth Group Brings Literacy Initiative to Lowcountry Through Service Project

Youth leaders from across the nation gathered in North Charleston to promote literacy and community engagement during Jack and Jill of America’s 2026 National Youth Trip. Participants built community libraries, shared culturally affirming books, and celebrated Gullah Geechee history and Lowcountry culture. The initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on local children and families.

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“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”

Jimmy Johnson

UPCOMING EVENTS

Jazz in Bloom
Jazz in Bloom
Sat, Apr 25
3923 Azalea Dr
Join us for an evening of music, community, and celebration during Jazz Heritage Month. Jazz in Bloom at Jenkins honors the legacy of Charleston native Edmund Thornton Jenkins (1894–1926) while celebrating the vibrant tradition of jazz.
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The Jenkins Jazz Heritage Project is a powerful cultural and educational initiative of the Jenkins Youth and Family Village—formerly known as the historic Jenkins Orphanage.

View Jenkins Jazz Latest Sponsorship Booklet Playbill                       

Our

Partners

A special thank you to our partners and sponsors.

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Your presence makes a difference.

Your support matters.

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