The award is named after Jamala Rogers, a long-time respected community leader, who became active in social justice movements as a teen. She has inspired thousands of young people to use their time, talents, and skills to transform their lives and their communities in meaningful ways.
Requirements
- Applicant must submit a 500-750-word concept paper/video about their vision of social justice and a project they initiated or participated in that brought about fundamental change for a specific population or neighborhood. Elaborate on why youth are important as change agents.
- A letter is required from an adult associated with the program or project who can confirm the applicant’s involvement and their impact.
- The application package can also include photos, news clippings, etc., that document the project.
Possible Ways to Utilize the Monetary Award
- Special project or campaign
The selected recipient can apply the monetary award to a special project that the applicant will undertake to address a
problem. A project overview must be included. This could be a community campaign, a video about an issue, etc. - Towards tuition or other expenses
The monetary award will be made directly to the institution that the applicant is already enrolled in or will enroll in the
next academic semester. This could be a vocational school, university, etc. - The selected recipient can use the monetary award to attend a leadership development or organizing training, enhancing their effectiveness as a change agent. The award will be paid directly to the training
organization and must be used within one year.
The deadline for applications is December 31, 2025. The application must be mailed to PO Box 5277, St. Louis, MO 63115, or emailed to ycpd.stl@gmail.com.
Upcoming Events

Mourning Mill Creek – Aug 14 & 15, 2026
A tribute to St. Louis Mill Creek community that was destroyed in the mid-20th century due to urban renewal, displacing its vibrant African American residents.

Project Her Name Matters Presents – Town Hall – Aug 8, 2026
How does the epidemic of missing Black women and girls impact the St. Louis region and what can we do about it? The Her Name Matters Town Hall event will cover these topics and more, bringing together Jamala Rogers of the Organization for Black Struggle, State Senator Angela Mosley (Sponsor of the Missing and Murdered African American Women and Girls Task Force), and Sara White of the Salvation Army Anti-Human Trafficking Initiative for an in-depth discussion on this urgent crisis.

The Golden Era of Black Radio presented by the National Black Radio Hall of Fame – Aug 8, 2026
This exciting fundraising event will feature a heartfelt tribute to the late Doug Eason and will bring together many of the legendary voices heard on local radio stations, along with several pioneers of the industry.