Emanuel Dupree Jackson

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT EMANUEL DUPREE JACKSON

I’m Emanuel “Dupree” Jackson, Jr—a purpose-driven founder, community builder, and national advocate for youth empowerment and equity. As Executive Director of the EJS Project, I lead one of South Florida’s most impactful nonprofit organizations, focused on equipping high-risk, high-potential youth with the tools, opportunities, and mentorship they need to thrive.My journey began in Delray Beach and the rural town of Sneads, Florida. I didn’t come up through the traditional nonprofit pipeline. I came up through lived experience—the kind that fuels deep empathy and a relentless commitment to breaking cycles and building access where there was none. In 2014, with no money and no formal nonprofit training, I founded the EJS Project in honor of my late father. Since then, we\'ve helped thousands of teenagers graduate, find their voice, and prepare for life, not just college.What sets me apart is the grassroots foundation of my leadership. I’ve built partnerships with public officials, private investors, foundations, and fellow community leaders—all while keeping youth at the center. We’ve grown from a one-room after-school program into a county-wide movement with a new, larger facility and recognition from organizations like the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Palm Beach County Medical Society.I speak from personal experience and professional expertise—whether at national summits, policy forums on Capitol Hill, or local graduations. I’m passionate about leading sustainable change, creating systems of support, and reminding people that powerful transformation happens when we invest in the people and places we often overlook.I’m not here to admire the problem—I’m here to build solutions. And I’m always open to connecting with others who are \'Bout Dat Action.