Through transformative health and wellness programs, For The Better Inc., founded by Rasheedat Ajala, is making a profound impact on the lives of teens in Brooklyn’s underserved communities. The nonprofit’s mission goes beyond health education, focusing instead on empowering young people to take control of their wellness and share their success stories—creating a ripple effect that reaches families, friends, and the broader community.
Inspiring Change Through Real Stories
For The Better Inc.’s programs are built on the belief that teens learn best when they can relate to real-life success stories—stories from peers who have faced similar challenges and transformed their lives through dedication and support. Each program is designed to empower young participants to create their own success stories and inspire others to follow suit.
Take Jayla, a 16-year-old who joined For The Better Inc.’s mentorship program after struggling with self-confidence and her grades. Through mentorship and health education, Jayla found support that helped her discover her potential and set clear goals for her future.
“Before joining For The Better Inc., I struggled with my grades and self-confidence,” says Jayla. “Through the mentorship program, I found a mentor who believed in me. Now, I’m excelling in school and have a clearer vision for my future.”
Then there’s Carlos, a 15-year-old who joined For The Better Inc.’s “Soda-Free Challenge” through their Instagram page. Inspired by seeing friends participate, Carlos committed to giving up sugary drinks for a month. Not only did he complete the challenge, but he also found himself with more energy, better focus in school, and a new awareness of the effects of sugary foods on his body.
“I feel like I’m in control now,” Carlos shares. “I’m making better choices every day, and my friends are noticing. Some of them are even joining the challenge with me!”
Building Community Through Social Media
Social media plays a pivotal role in For The Better Inc.’s mission, serving as a digital space where teens connect, share, and celebrate each other’s accomplishments. The nonprofit’s Instagram page is filled with inspiring posts, success stories, and event updates, all aimed at creating a community of youth who support one another on their health journeys. Teens participate in challenges like the “Soda-Free Challenge,” share their experiences through hashtags, and encourage each other with comments and reposts.
“We want our social media platforms to be a safe space for teens to find inspiration and share their progress,” says Ajala. “For The Better Inc. is more than a program—it’s a community of young people lifting each other up.”
Through social media, teens not only connect with each other but also access valuable resources, including recipes, exercise tips, and health challenges that keep them engaged and motivated.
Family and Community Impact
For The Better Inc.’s influence extends beyond individual teens to the families and communities they interact with daily. Teens who complete programs like the Better Health Program often bring newfound knowledge and habits back to their families, inspiring healthier choices at home. For example, after attending cooking classes through the program, Monesha, a 17-year-old participant for three years, now cooks healthy meals for her family and teaches them about nutrition.
“Attending the cooking class was a great experience. We learned to cook meals that are balanced and nutritious, and I can now educate others on making healthier choices,” says Monesha.
Similarly, Makayla shares her experience from For The Better Inc.’s Cooking Club, where she learned about portion control and how to prepare balanced meals.
“Ms. Rasheeda made sure we learned what we needed to stay healthy and even helped me expand my taste buds. I loved the Cooking Club because it was a space to connect with friends and learn about new recipes. Now I can share what I’ve learned with my family, too,” says Makayla.
The stories of Jayla, Carlos, Monesha, and Makayla highlight how For The Better Inc. is building a generation of health-conscious teens who are motivated to create lasting change in their communities.
Get Involved and Join the Movement
For The Better Inc. is always looking to welcome new teens and families into its programs. Through engaging challenges, relatable success stories, and a supportive community on social media, the organization continues to grow and inspire a new generation of health advocates.
Be a part of the movement! Follow For The Better Inc. on Instagram to stay connected with the latest events, challenges, and inspiring stories from teens just like you who are making a difference.
Follow us on Instagram to be a part of the change. Stay connected for upcoming events, challenges, and stories from our inspiring teens!
