Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Celebrating Kingsgiving 2024!

Our 2024 Kingsgiving event, held on November 25th at the Light Rail Café, was an extraordinary success! This special evening brought together our young men, families, and community members to celebrate the spirit of gratitude, unity, and giving. Guests were treated to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and heartfelt moments of connection as we reflected on the impact of our shared efforts throughout the year.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

“K.O.K.” featuring Zy Gzz & Pano

As a part of our recent “Health is Wealth” initiative, Dr. Ibn Shakoor, EdD hosted a series of workshops for our young men focused on mental health, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution. Over the course of the summer, our Kings not only grew individually, but also learned to better support each other as a community.

Dr. Ibn went above and beyond to also set up studio sessions and helped our Kings write and record the “K.O.K.” anthem. The project culminated with the above music video that showcases their journey and personal growth.

We hope you enjoy it as much as our young men did in creating it.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

A Day of Exploration and Education with Kismet of Kings

On June 25th, the young men of Kismet of Kings experienced a day filled with learning, camaraderie, and important discussions, led by Nevin Perkins and Erroll Worrell. The day kicked off with an enlightening campus tour of Hudson County Community College, where the boys explored the campus, learned about educational opportunities, discussed culturally relevant information, and enjoyed a meal together.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

2nd Annual “All Things Advertising” Field Trip

At Kismet of Kings, we believe in the power of exposure and experience as catalysts for growth and inspiration. Our second annual “All Things Advertising” Field Trip stands as a testament to this belief, offering our young men a window into the dynamic world of marketing and advertising.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Round Valley Hiking & Nature Getaway

Our spirited group embarked on a thrilling 36-hour camping and hiking trip to Round Valley Recreation Area in Lebanon, NJ. This adventure was expertly led by the dynamic duo of Gigi and Arthur from Team Wilderness, in collaboration with the dedicated staff of Nevin Perkins, Sean Williams, and Erroll Worrell from Kismet of Kings. Along with their enthusiastic students, they set out for an unforgettable experience.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Student Spotlight: Michael

Meet Michael, aka Mike, a high school sophomore who's making waves with his resilience and awesome family vibes!

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Entrepreneurs in the Making

In a celebration of innovation and resilience, the 2024 Kismet of Kings Entrepreneurial Event became a stage where the entrepreneurial spirit of young men took center spotlight. This triumphant occasion showcased the businesses crafted by these visionary minds, offering a glimpse into a future where creativity meets enterprise.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

The Night the Devils Became Our Angels

Who knew Kismet of Kings would become such big hockey fans?!? But then again, its hard not to be when the New Jersey Devils, the New Jersey Devils Youth Foundation, and the fine folks at Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment invite you to an all-expenses paid trip to watch the NJ Devils beat on the Colorado Avalanche.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

KoK Celebrates Our 11th Year with Drip Gelato’s “Kismet Krown Cake”

In honor of our eleven years of service, Kismet of Kings teamed up with Drip Gelato & Cafe in Bayonne to create our very own, custom flavor: The Kismet Kake! Our supporters are invited to stop by Drip Gelato & Cafe located at 439 Avenue C in Bayonne, NJ to try our one-of-a-kind blend of vanilla & salted caramel topped with coconut shavings, juicy pineapple chunks, & more caramel drizzle - all served up on their delicious pound cake (or you can have it in a cup, bubble waffle cone or affogato style)!

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

KoK Joins the #JCBCFU Crew for their 9th Annual Jersey City Toy Drive

The #JCBCFU Crew invited Kismet of Kings to partner on their 9th Annual Jersey City, both to help fundraise for our own young men and the many deserving students of the Boys & Girls Club of Hudson County. And we’re thrilled to announce that it was a record breaking year! Together, we’ve achieved something truly remarkable.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Partnering with Local Churches to Host $1 Christmas Toy Store

Organized by board member, David Carment, Kismet of Kings partnered with Liberty Church, CityLife Church, and Hub Church to host a $1 Christmas Toy Store. Thousands of dollars in gifts and toys were donated by the churches and other benefactors to stock the store, which empowered more than 200 families to “purchase” the toys for only $1 each with the proceeds going to support Kismet of Kings.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Celebrating Kingsgiving Together

A central theme to holiday season is family, and more importantly eating with family. Our boys are no stranger to a good meal, and have built a strong brotherhood at Kismet of Kings. So for Kingsgiving this year, they got the chance to break bread as a family, at local restaurant the Light Rail Cafe!

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Learning the Ins & Outs of the Innovation Economy and International Law with Gunderson Dettmer

The journey to Gunderson Dettmer was more than just a field trip. It was a captivating chapter in the lives of these ambitious young men, a pivotal moment that could propel them towards greatness. The Kismet of Kings program instills within them the knowledge, skills, and courage to pursue their passions unapologetically. With their newfound understanding of legal careers, they were empowered to carve their own paths, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Kismet of Kings Launches Summer Entrepreneurial Program for Young Men

"We are thrilled to launch the Summer Entrepreneurial Program for young men, empowering them with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to excel in entrepreneurship,” said Lewis Spears, the nonprofit CEO and Executive Director. “We believe that by fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, we are enabling these young men to become change-makers and leaders within their communities. We invite all young men with a passion for entrepreneurship to join us and embark on an exciting journey to success."

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Jason Velliquette Jason Velliquette

Brown Brilliance Presents “Music Bingo” Fundraiser

We are right back at it! Our next fundraiser is one that is sure to oodles of fun. Everyone loves the game of Bingo, right? Well, we're hosting a music bingo night with a fun and exciting twist, hosted by our very own Janine Brown of @IAmBrownBrilliance. You do not want to miss this one! All proceeds will go towards the purchase of a van which will be used to transport the young men of Kismet of Kings to and from our summer program, on field trips, college tours, and many more necessary excursions.

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