Where Support Becomes Strength — and Strength Builds Community.

We create pathways to stability, self-sufficiency, and Great Joy by walking alongside individuals and families, meeting essential needs, and nurturing emotional, physical, and economic well-being so our communities can truly thrive.

Who We Are

Our Mission: What Drives Great Joy

Great Joy Community Development Corporation empowers individuals and families by meeting essential needs and supporting whole-person wellness. We provide access to food, clothing, housing resources, mental health services, educational opportunities, and emotional support — all designed to elevate quality of life and strengthen long-term self-sufficiency. Through intentional connection, compassionate care, and community partnership, we build pathways that help families rise, heal, and thrive.

Meet the Heart Behind Great Joy CDC

Our Founder & Executive Director, Dr. La'Tesha, shares a warm welcome and introduces the vision that drives our mission to uplift families, build community strength, and bring healing through holistic support.

Our Vision: The Future We’re Building

We envision vibrant, interconnected communities where every individual and family has the stability, opportunity, and support needed to flourish. We aspire to nurture dynamic relationships, foster educational and career advancement, and promote holistic wellness — creating healthy, empowered neighborhoods filled with dignity, purpose, and Great Joy.

Giving Tuesday with Great Joy CDC

Support programs that uplift youth, nurture minds, and strengthen our community. Your gift makes a real impact.

Where Your Gift Goes

The Jada Simone Initiatives
- Creative Writing Lab – healing through writing and storytelling.
- Animal Care & Compassion – building empathy through animal interactions.
- Stretching & Movement – trauma-informed sessions for mindfulness and healing.
Great Joy Summer Camp – fun, educational, and supportive programming.
Mental Health Leadership Programs – empowering teens to champion wellness.

How You Can Help

$25 provides art supplies for one child.
$50 supports a week of animal care activities.
$100 sponsors a Mental Health Leadership student.
$250 sends one youth to summer camp.
$500+ sustains Jada’s legacy programs.

Every dollar makes a difference.

Donate Now

Our Services to Children, Families, and Communities

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Individual Counseling

Personalized one-on-one support for children, teens, and parents to navigate emotions, stress, trauma, and personal challenges.

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Couples Counseling

Helping parents and caregivers strengthen relationships through communication, connection, and conflict resolution.

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Family Therapy

Guided sessions for families to rebuild trust, improve understanding, and grow stronger together.

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Life Coaching

Goal-focused guidance for youth and adults to build confidence, develop life skills, and create a positive vision for the future.

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Group Therapy

Safe, supportive spaces for kids, teens, and families to connect with others in a guided group setting.

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Nonprofit Consulting

Strategic guidance for nonprofits, including program development, capacity building, and organizational planning.

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School Youth-Based Programs

Engaging, school-partnered programs to support social, emotional, and academic well-being of students.

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Clinical Evaluations & Assessments

Professional evaluations identifying behavioral, emotional, or developmental needs for accurate guidance and support.

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Community Initiatives

Collaborative programs that foster engagement, empower residents, and promote wellness through education and outreach.

Jada Simone's Legacy Series

Jada Simone Legacy Programs

The Jada Simone Legacy Series honors Jada’s creativity, compassion, and love for movement and animals. These programs uplift youth through healing, expression, and community connection.

1. Creative Writing Lab

A space for youth to process emotions through poetry, journaling, and storytelling—supported by clinicians and teaching artists.

2. Stretching & Body Movement Series

Trauma-informed stretching, breathwork, and rhythmic movement that help youth release tension and reconnect with their bodies.

3. Animal Care & Compassion Program

Hands-on learning with local shelters and animal-care partners that builds empathy, responsibility, and emotional awareness.
Launching January 2026.

Support Jada’s legacy. View More Programs

Teen Girl Empowerment Group

Empowering Girls Ages 13–17

Our Teen Girl Empowerment Group provides a safe and supportive space for young girls to connect, share, and grow. Designed for ages 13–17, this group encourages open conversations and peer support to build confidence and resilience.

Positive Self-Esteem & Confidence
Building Healthy Friendships
Managing Negative Thoughts
Coping Skills for Everyday Stress
And many more empowering topics

This group promotes connection, confidence, and emotional wellness in a judgment-free environment. Join us in uplifting the next generation of strong, self-aware young women.

For more info or to register, email GreatJoyCDC@gmail.com

Our Core Values

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Empowerment

Every person deserves stability, dignity, and a path forward — we walk that journey together.

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Community

We nurture positive mental health and well-being, enhancing the quality of life for all.

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Connection

We value enriching relationships that contribute to the prosperity and interconnectedness of our neighborhoods.

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Integrity

We uphold the highest standards of integrity, fostering trust and respect within the communities we serve.

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Holistic Wellness

We prioritize the mental, physical, and emotional health of every individual, recognizing its role in achieving a flourishing society.