Jaleel "JaRich" Ritchwood Jordan
| Jaleel "JaRich" Ritchwood Jordan | |
|---|---|
| Born | January 21, 1992 Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| 💼 Occupation | Musician, educator, community organizer |
| Known for | Education advocacy, Victim to Victor Outreach, Boys to Men program |
| 🏅 Awards | Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (2023)[1] |
Jaleel "JaRich" Ritchwood Jordan (born January 21, 1992) is an American musician, educator, and community organizer originally from Newark, New Jersey, and based in Dallas, Texas. He is known for his work in special education, youth mentorship, and community service. In 2023, he received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden for his contributions to education and community development.[1][2]
Early life and education
Jordan was born in Newark, New Jersey, and grew up in nearby East Orange. As a youth he performed music in church and assisted in his family’s restaurant, Sunny’s Café, while pursuing his education.[2]
Career
Education and advocacy
Jordan has worked as a long-term special education teacher, most recently in the Dallas Independent School District, and previously in Newark, New Jersey. He is noted for paying out-of-pocket to support students with school supplies, shoes, and haircuts.[2]
He founded the Boys to Men mentorship program at Marion P. Thomas Charter High School in Newark, NJ while being a self contained English/World History teacher, designed to empower Black and Brown boys through activities such as “Dress for Success” days, community cleanups, and coat drives.[3]
In 2017, he also founded Victim to Victor Outreach, a nonprofit providing scholarships, food and holiday drives, and school supplies for underserved youth in Newark.[3]
Music
Performing under the stage name JaRich, Jordan blends influences of soul, gospel, R&B, and funk. His music often incorporates themes of faith, resilience, and social uplift.[2]
Media appearances
Jordan was featured on The Ellen DeGeneres Show (guest-hosted by tWitch), where he received a $10,000 donation from TisBest to support his nonprofit work.[3]
Awards and honors
- Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (2023), presented by President Joe Biden.[1][2]
- Honorary Doctorate from Harvest Christian University in Dallas.[2]
- Commendation from the East Orange City Council (2024).[2]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "Meet Jaleel "JaRich" Ritchwood Jordan". CanvasRebel. October 30, 2023. Retrieved September 3, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 "City Council Resolution I-349 Honoring Jaleel "JaRich" Ritchwood-Jordan". City of East Orange. October 15, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Special Needs Teacher Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan Advocates for Student Equality". TisBest Philanthropy. June 13, 2022. Retrieved September 3, 2025.
External links
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