Student Spotlight: Michael
Meet Michael, aka Mike, a high school sophomore who's making waves with his resilience and awesome family vibes!
In The Press: “Kismet of Kings Continues 10-Year Mission to Mentor Urban Young Men”
Check out Kismet of Kings in the press with the Jersey City Times.
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.
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.
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)!
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.
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.
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!
Please Welcome Nevin Perkins, KoK’s New Program Assistant Director
Please Welcome Nevin Perkins, KoK’s New Program Assistant Director
Discussing Critical Education, Anti-Racism, and Inclusive Learning with Dr. Bettina Love
We were happy to take the young men from our afterschool program to Montclair State University for the Bettina Love event. They had a great time with insightful discussions and thought-provoking sessions and we believe it helped them grow and learn in a supportive setting.
Hosting the Summer Entrepreneurial Expedition
Have you heard about the incredible Summer Entrepreneurial Expedition by Kismet of Kings? If not, you're in for a treat!
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.
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."
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.
Juneteenth Karaoke Kick Off
Tickets are now available for our Juneteenth Karaoke Kick-Off, taking place June 15th!!!! Come out for great food, drinks, & games. And don't forget to choose your song!!! All proceeds will go towards the purchase of a van which will be used for transporting our young men to and from our after school program, field trips, and so much more.
“All Things Advertising” Field Trip
Today, we had the opportunity to introduce our Kings (and one Queen) to the exciting new career field via an “All Things Advertising” Field Trip. Our Board Members and CMO partner, Q Juanise Robinson, had the pleasure of leading our exceptional group of students on a journey throughout Manhattan (a new experience for some) to visit with three phenomenal organizations.
The Ujamaa Cafe: Nurturing Hope and Empowerment
The Kismet of Kings center, with its Ujamaa Cafe, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative impact of addressing food insecurity and promoting health equity. Through the tireless efforts of Dr. Leeja Carter and the Coalition for Food and Health Equity, this community-driven initiative has created a nurturing space where anyone in need can find sustenance without facing judgment or barriers.
Celebrating 10 Years of Success
This year, we celebrated the Kismet of Kings Ten Year Anniversary. It was an exciting night commemorating our decade-long journey of success and taking a sneak peek into our vision for the next ten years. It was a delightful evening packed with lively musical performances, distinguished guests, special honorees, great food & drink, KoK merchandise and more. Most importantly, all funds raised went towards supporting our young men with supplies, transportation, trips, partnerships, laptops, workshops & special guest speakers, work study programs, and more!
A New Logo for a New Era
In celebration of our 10th anniversary, Kismet of Kings is proud to announce the redesign of our new logo, which visually represents both the values upon which we were founded and the mission we have embraced for the future of our program.