Q&A

What are some Charlotte based communities or organizations that you participate in or give back to and how? What is your role? *

Junior League of Charlotte (Active Member) - As an active member of JLC, I contribute to strengthening our community through volunteerism, leadership development, and training. Together with other women in the organization, I help identify critical community needs and develop programs to address them. Additionally, I serve on the committee for the Leadership Development Institute, where we equip JLC members with the skills to become more effective leaders in both their personal and professional lives.

The Relatives (Volunteer) - The Relatives is a non-profit organization that provides safety, stability, and pathways to a better future for young adults in crisis. I support their mission by participating in resume-building and interview workshops, helping the young people in the program prepare for successful entry into the workforce.

Heart for Math Tutoring (Volunteer) - Once a week, I volunteer with Heart for Math Tutoring, where I visit a local elementary school in Charlotte to provide one-on-one math tutoring. I work with a disadvantaged 3rd-grade student who lacks access to additional learning opportunities outside of school. This service helps bridge the educational gap and support's the student's academic growth. 

Women of Worth (Volunteer/Member) - Women of Worth is a ministry within St. Paul Baptist Church dedicated to addressing a wide range of community needs. Our efforts include donating food and clothing, hosting charity events to raise money for local causes, organizing voter registration drives, and fostering connections among women in the church.

Changed Choices (Volunteer) - Changed Choices is a Christian-based non-profit organization dedicated to helping currently and recently incarcerated women achieve lasting, positive change through programming and personalized mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual support. I support Changed Choices by making regular donations and participating in their annual charity walk and fundraising dinners. In addition, I was recently voted to be on the Board of Directors for this organization as of this month!

What is your favorite act of self care? How often do you give yourself this form of love?*

Recently, I found that one very effective act of self-care for me is treating myself to experiences that I have always wanted to try (or have not done in a while), whether its exploring a new restaurant, going to the movies, or visiting a new museum. Most recently, I treated myself to a musical, something I loved doing when I was younger. In that moment, I felt mentally free and joyful. Now, I make it a point to experience something new at least once a week.

What is one goal you wish to accomplish over the next year?*

A goal I am currently working towards over the next year is passing my Chartered Financial Analyst Level 1 exam. Though I would still have two more levels to pass after this, it would be a huge step towards getting me to my long-term goal of becoming a CFA.

We’re excited to introduce our August Community Spotlight! Meet Jaida Clarke, a skilled financial consultant and pillar in the Charlotte community through her generous service. Jaida actively contributes to several community-focused organizations, enriching both her own personal growth and the lives of others. From leadership development and professional support for young adults experiencing challenging environments to tutoring 3rd grade math and hosting charity events, drives, walks and dinners. Jaida’s heart has surely uplifted the community in love and light.

Her favorite form of self-care is prioritizing new experiences that bring her joy and mental freedom, such as exploring new restaurants, attending movies, or visiting museums; at least once a week. Looking ahead, Jaida is focused on passing her Chartered Financial Analyst Level 1 exam within the next year, marking a significant step toward achieving her long-term goal of becoming a CFA.