WHAT WE DO

In July 2004, a Healthy Neighborhood Report was developed by the Columbus Health Department (CHD) for the Near Eastside of Columbus, but it was never implemented within the community of Kimball Farms. The introduction to the report states, “For neighborhoods to be strong, they must be healthy. To be healthy, residents must have access to health care, must have safe streets and places to recreate and have the tools and opportunities to live healthier lives.”

In 2010, JJDC was established to implement the vision of this report. As a personal and community development corporation, rooted in a strong faith in Jesus Christ, we invest into the flesh and blood of the people along with brick and mortar for the development of our community. The investment programs provided by JJDC will affect all areas of the individuals in the Kimball Farms community.

Kimball Farms

The Community of Kimball Farms (formerly known as South of Main) serves the citizens of near East Main Street area of Columbus, Ohio. The boundaries for this neighborhood are Kimball Place (West) to Alum Creek Drive (East) and East Main Street (North) to Cole Street (South). The Community of Kimball Farms is located within the 43205 zip code.

After the construction of the I-70 and I-71 highways in 1964, The Community of Kimball Farms was truncated from the rest of the Columbus and the neighborhood declined due to many of its residents relocating to other communities within Columbus for easier access to better jobs, schools, and housing. The neighborhood still suffers from population decline due to the effects of the highway being built over 50 years ago, resulting in a lost identity for this particular area of East Main Street. There is not any other organization providing these types of services within The Community of Kimball Farms.

PROGRAMS

  • Urban Farming
  • Housing
  • Youth Mentorship
  • Employment
  • Adult Mentoring
  • Outreach

FARMING

JJDC has established numerous urban faming plots throughout the east Columbus area. Our goal is to establish green jobs and healthy alternatives for those in the Kimball Farms area. Offering fresh produce is a healthy alternative to many of the food options available to people struggling with poverty.

HOUSING

JJDC has restored numerous homes in the Kimball Farms community. JJDC is using these homes to provide housing for veterans, 'at-risk' youth, and restored citizens. In addition to housing, the homes provide a place for the residents to enter a mentorship program. Each house member has access to a life-coach and each household has house rules to add structure and accountability.

HOUSING

JJDC has restored numerous homes in the Kimball Farms community. JJDC is using these homes to provide housing for veterans, 'at-risk' youth, and restored citizens. In addition to housing, the homes provide a place for the residents to enter a mentorship program. Each house member has access to a life-coach and each household has house rules to add structure and accountability.

HOUSING

JJDC has restored numerous homes in the Kimball Farms community. JJDC is using these homes to provide housing for veterans, 'at-risk' youth, and restored citizens. In addition to housing, the homes provide a place for the residents to enter a mentorship program. Each house member has access to a life-coach and each household has house rules to add structure and accountability.

YOUTH

JJDC is the Columbus Chapter for the SIMBA/SIMSA Circle. SIMBA stands for Safe In My Brother’s Arms and SIMSA stands for Safe In My Sister’s Arms. The SIMBA/SIMSA Circle is an Africentric community that creates a space for listening, teaching, and responding to the needs of young African American males and females. We are determined to: Rescue their gifts, Release their potential, and Restore their promise.

EMPLOYMENT

Clients are encouraged to consider two programs. FMICA Workforce Development (MICA) provides real world training in the construction trades in electrical, plumbing, carpentry, lead abatement, and construction safety.

Second, the Franklin County Ohio State University Extension (OSU) offers a Master Gardener Program. Trainees will receive 50 hours of training in horticultural topics.

EMPLOYMENT

Clients are encouraged to consider two programs. FMICA Workforce Development (MICA) provides real world training in the construction trades in electrical, plumbing, carpentry, lead abatement, and construction safety.

Second, the Franklin County Ohio State University Extension (OSU) offers a Master Gardener Program. Trainees will receive 50 hours of training in horticultural topics.

MENTORING

JJDC has two prison mentorship programs: Life Builders Mentorship Program and Maximized Manhood Mentorship Program. In partnership with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) the goal of these programs is to reduce recidivism. Our programs offer structured relationships while providing support in a non-threatening way so as to empower them and move them forward with confidence toward their goals.

OUTREACH

JJDC offers several community outreach programs:
* Video Game Night
* Summer Enrichment Program
* Tutoring, in partnership with Capital University students
* Summer festival celebrating the neighborhood
* School Adoption Program

OUTREACH

JJDC offers several community outreach programs:
* Video Game Night
* Summer Enrichment Program
* Tutoring, in partnership with Capital University students
* Summer festival celebrating the neighborhood
* School Adoption Program

DONATE

J. Jireh Development is a faith-based organization that relies on the generosity of people who want to see people experience wholeness.

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