Operation Jump Start

Operation Jump Start (OJS) is a nonprofit organization located in Long Beach, California, serving as a critical resource for low-income, high-potential, first-generation students. Founded in 1994 by Diann and Walt Zenda, the organization has been at the forefront of ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has access to higher education.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Operation Jump Start is to provide comprehensive resources and mentoring to enable youth in underserved communities to reach their full potential through a college education. Their vision is centered around creating a fair opportunity for all students to access a quality education, irrespective of their socioeconomic status. The organization focuses on helping students get into, stay in, and graduate from a four-year college.

Programs and Services

OJS offers a range of programs designed to support students throughout their educational journey:

• Academic Support: OJS provides tutoring and college guidance to help students succeed academically.
• Mentoring: Each student is paired with a mentor who offers ongoing support and guidance.
• Socio-emotional Counseling: Recognizing the personal challenges students may face, OJS also provides counseling services to support their well-being.
• Scholarships: Financial assistance is available to help students overcome financial barriers.

These programs are designed to create a strong support system that helps students from 8th grade through to college graduation.

Impact and Achievements

Over its 30-year history, Operation Jump Start has served more than 8,000 students from the Long Beach Unified School District. The organization has achieved a notable six-year bachelor’s degree attainment rate of 89%, significantly surpassing national averages for low-income students. This success underscores OJS’s commitment to empowering young people and transforming their life trajectories.

Financial and Organizational Structure

Operation Jump Start is designated as a 501(c)(3) organization, with contributions forming the bulk of its revenue. The organization is led by a diverse board of directors and is governed by a transparent framework that emphasizes equity and inclusivity.

Board and Governance

OJS’s leadership includes a diverse board and key personnel who are committed to its mission. The organization prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its governance practices.

History and Milestones

Founded in 1994, Operation Jump Start began as a grassroots mentoring program with just nine mentor-student pairs meeting in the founders' living room. Since then, it has grown into a comprehensive program serving hundreds of students annually. In recent years, OJS celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of dedication to educational equity.

Core Values

The core values of Operation Jump Start include gratitude, education, mentoring, and transparency. These principles guide the organization's approach to building relationships, facilitating academic success, and fostering community support.

In summary, Operation Jump Start plays a vital role in the Long Beach community by bridging the educational gap for disadvantaged youth through tailored support and mentorship programs. Its enduring commitment to educational equity has positively impacted generations of students.