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

OBS Appreciation Night Celebrating the Black Rep – Sept. 23, 2026
Jazz, blues and gospel music carry us through Celie’s odyssey and all who affect her in this landmark musical based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel. Born into a life of brutality in the 19th century American South, Celie perseveres as everyone she loves slips through her fingers. Daring to survive against the odds, she discovers the power of her own voice and that love is worth believing in.

What is Democratic Socialism? – Sept 17, 2026
What is Democratic Socialism? Explore the answer with leading organizers and thinkers.
Register to watch this Virtual Event.

Democracy Matters – Updates on Local control of the St. Louis Police Dept. – Sept 10, 2026
Updates on lawsuits against local control of the SLMPD, on the functioning of the Civilian Oversight Board and the Division of Civilian Oversight.