About us
How it all started
It began with a school counselor who noticed a student who was always tired, always hungry and quietly falling behind. The family was one missed rent payment from losing their home, and no program existed for that moment.
A few neighbors stepped in and covered the gap. Then another family. Then another school called. That first handful of families became Joterrell Foundation: a year-round program that adopts the whole household and fills every gap between a child and the classroom.
See how adoption works
- 1,240
- Children adopted
- 486
- Families supported
- 38
- Partner schools
- 92¢
- Of every dollar to families
What we believe
Four ideas guide every decision we make. Select one to read more.
Belief N.1
Whole Families First
A child cannot thrive in a household that is drowning. We adopt everyone under the roof, so the support holds and the progress lasts.
Our Team
The people behind every family’s plan.
A small team, a lot of volunteers and a school community that keeps showing up.
Founder & ChairJoJo Joanna Torrell Davis
Founded Joterrell Foundation to help families get the support they need to thrive.
Director of Family ProgramsMonica Gholson
Builds each family’s plan and walks beside them all year.
School Partnerships LeadMadison Davis
Works with counselors and principals to bring new schools in.
Join us
Adopt a family, partner your school or give your time.
There is a place for you.
Stay Connected
On all things Joterrell Foundation.