ABOUT US
Just 4 Us Foundation (JFUF) was founded in 2009 by Andrée M. Harris, a mother to children with special needs, a former foster parent, and a dedicated community advocate. What began as a local effort to create inclusive, accessible programs for individuals with special needs has grown—over the past 16 years—into a dynamic, trauma-informed organization that now serves diverse communities across Washington, DC, Maryland, and beyond.
Andrée’s journey is personal. As someone who faced trauma during her own childhood, she discovered the power of the arts as a healing tool. What began as her outlet became her purpose. Today, she uses that same creative energy to uplift others—transforming pain into power through expressive arts, advocacy, and connection.
At Just 4 Us Foundation, we believe that every person—regardless of ability, background, or circumstance—deserves access to joy, opportunity, and creative expression. Whether living with autism, developmental delays, physical impairments, or the emotional wounds of trauma, every participant is welcomed with compassion and treated with dignity.
Our programming is rooted in inclusion and growth. From adaptive dance and acting classes to grief support groups, wellness retreats, youth summits, and filmmaking workshops, we create safe, transformative spaces where participants can heal, build confidence, and find community.
To date, Just 4 Us Foundation has impacted well over 2,000 children, adults, and families—and after 16 years of consistent service, we are just getting started.
We’re not just here to provide services—we’re here to build relationships that last.
JFUF acts as a bridge between families and the resources they need to thrive. Through partnerships with local organizations, support networks, and public agencies, we help our participants expand their access to care, creativity, and community.
We walk with the people we serve—with compassion, consistency, and a belief that no one should be left behind.
Next Chapter: Chicago Expansion
In 2025, we’re expanding nationally with the launch of Put Down the Guns and Pick Up a Camera—a creative healing hub based in Chicago. This program equips youth affected by gun violence with tools to share their stories through film, art, and digital media. It’s about transforming trauma into testimony, and giving young voices the power to shape change.
OUR TEAM
Andrée M. Harris
Founder & Executive Director
Andrée M. Harris is the visionary behind Just 4 Us Foundation, founded in 2009 out of her lived experience as a mother, mentor, and advocate. A multi-award-winning actress, writer, and director, Ms. Harris has received over 60 awards and 15 nominations for her work in film and drama. She has used her platform to turn trauma into transformation—creating pathways for healing through the arts.
With over 21 years of service to the special needs and at-risk communities, she is also a Certified Wheelchair Dance Instructor and a Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor. Andrée incorporates the arts into every layer of the Foundation’s trauma-informed programs, building spaces that are inclusive, creative, and rooted in emotional growth.
Under her leadership, Just 4 Us Foundation has grown from a grassroots initiative into a recognized community-based organization, reaching thousands across the DC-Maryland region. Her approach combines artistic discipline with deep emotional intelligence—creating safe spaces where individuals can be vulnerable, expressive, and empowered.
Trymane Wes-Lee Aleaxander
INCLUSION & PROGRAM COACH
Trymane Alexander has been a dedicated volunteer and mentor with Just 4 Us Foundation for many years. He played a vital role in the Foundation’s after-school and weekend programs, where he led sessions, encouraged youth, and created welcoming spaces for learning and connection.
Trymane has overcome significant obstacles in his own life. Living with cerebral palsy, he faced early challenges accessing inclusive education and social environments. But rather than let those limitations define him, he transformed them into purpose. A natural leader and self-proclaimed social butterfly, Trymane is known for his infectious energy, optimism, and ability to make everyone feel like they belong.
He is also the founder of the Educated Tees Movement, which promotes equality, inclusion, and respect in schools, communities, and beyond. Through both his advocacy and hands-on support, Trymane helps JFUF fulfill its mission of inclusion, representation, and empowerment for all.
ELIZABETH ADEKOYA
Rochelle Harrod
INCLUSION & PROGRAM COACH
Rochelle is a long-standing supporter of JFUF. She holds a master’s degree in Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Trinity Washington University. A former Ms. Wheelchair DC, Rochelle has never allowed her disability to hinder her education or career. For the last 11 years, she has served as an Independent Living Specialist for Prince George’s County through Independence Now—one of JFUF’s trusted community partners. Rochelle is passionate about helping others navigate systems and access vital services. She also leads all of JFUF’s online fundraisers and enjoys selling Avon, Paparazzi Jewelry, and PartyLite Candles in her spare time
BRIDGETTE WASHINGTON
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Bridgette brings over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector to her role as Program Director at Just 4 Us Foundation. A longtime supporter and former Board Secretary, Bridgette now oversees all program operations—from curriculum development to community engagement and data management.
She plays a key role in designing and shaping upcoming initiatives, ensuring that every JFUF program is impactful, inclusive, and aligned with participant needs. Bridgette also serves as a vital bridge between the Foundation and the community—building relationships, fostering trust, and connecting families to meaningful opportunities for growth.
In addition to her behind-the-scenes leadership, Bridgette is known for hosting conferences and workshops for women and teens, creating empowering spaces for education, healing, and connection. Her work continues to deepen JFUF’s reach and amplify its mission across the region.