About the Foundation
The Jefferson Chamber Foundation is the nonprofit, charitable arm of the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and is recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization. Created to strengthen the long-term vitality of the Jefferson community, the Foundation supports initiatives that promote education, leadership, and workforce development across Jefferson Parish, aligning with the Chamber’s mission of “Strengthening Business. Enriching Our Community.”
The Foundation has served as the backbone of workforce development grants that were a catalyst in rebuilding efforts following Hurricane Katrina. It has also supported the growth of Leadership Jefferson, a program designed to develop a diverse network of dedicated business and community leaders by connecting participants with the people and organizations working to address critical issues facing the parish.
In addition, the Jefferson Chamber Foundation is the original namesake and founder of the Jefferson Chamber Foundation Academy (JCFA), now an autonomous high school that provides Jefferson Parish students with a second chance at graduation. The Foundation also supports key civic and leadership initiatives such as IGNITE, the Young Professionals Summit, and the 2026 National Civics Bee, furthering its commitment to engaging, educating, and empowering the next generation of leaders while strengthening both the business community and quality of life in Jefferson Parish.
Leadership Jefferson
Leadership Jefferson is a nine-month program designed to develop a diverse network of dedicated business and community leaders. Facilitated by a professional leadership team, the interactive workshops expose participants to local leaders and activists working to resolve critical issues facing Jefferson Parish. Specific session topics include civic & community engagement, healthcare, economic development, education & workforce development, equity & inclusion, criminal justice, and advocacy & state government.
IGNITE - Young Professionals Summit
Attracting and retaining young professionals remains a key priority for our state and parish, and our IGNITE Young Professionals Leadership Summit was created to help fuel the next generation of leaders. The summit provides a powerful platform for meaningful connection, professional development, and collaboration across the region.
2026 Civics Bee
The Jefferson Chamber Foundation is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to the Greater New Orleans Region for the 2025-2026 program year.
This annual initiative – now expanding to all 50 states in 2026 – invites middle school students to showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities, and build trust in others and institutions through a nonpartisan, multi-round competition.
