The Hood Report: May Edition
A New Chapter in Newark: Jordan’s House Opens Its Doors in Newark's South Ward

Last Friday, we celebrated the official ribbon cutting of Jordan’s House — a transformative transitional living space for young men in Newark, ages 18–25, who are navigating housing insecurity.
Created by Leaders for Life in loving memory of Jordan White, this new initiative is more than just a home, it's a place rooted in dignity, healing, opportunity, and purpose.
In our latest community spotlight segment, we spoke with the first two youth residents of Jordan’s House, who shared how this space is already offering them safety, stability, and a renewed sense of self.
What Is Leaders for Life?
Leaders for Life is a youth-centered community organization in Newark dedicated to improving the quality of life for disenfranchised youth through:
- High School Equivalency (HSED) & GED Support
- Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) program
- Mental Health & Emotional Resilience Programs
- Middle to High School Transition Support
- Summer Camps & Leadership Training
Want to Support?
Watch and share this spotlight video - click here to watch the full recap, and if you can, donate to keep Jordan’s House strong!
🔗 leaders4lifenj.org
Youth Voices on the Rise in Newark Media
Our Youth Reporter Program and Community Media Fellows are deep in pre-production — and their stories are about to change the narrative in Newark.
🎙️ Podcast launches and 🎬 mini-documentary projects are underway, with each young creator centering the real experiences of Newark youth and multi-marginalized communities.
From housing insecurity and education equity to mental health, community safety, and joy, these youth-led productions are:
- Lifting up underheard stories
- Connecting residents to local resources
- Creating platforms where Newark speaks for itself
Whether they're interviewing peers, spotlighting grassroots efforts, or documenting neighborhood resilience, these storytellers are amplifying the truth, complexity, and beauty of Newark life.
Stay tuned for the official launch of the podcast series and the first round of short documentaries, all produced by and for Newark’s next generation of media makers.
Community Resources and Events















Visit @thenorkproject on Instagram to register
Thank You for Building with Us
Every event, every story, every connection is powered by people like you. Whether you attended, supported, or shared, thank you for being part of the Newark News & Story Collaborative and Five Wards Media community.
Let’s keep growing.
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