Journalism for Change (JFC) is a US 501(c)(3) not-for-profit founded by journalist and producer Maziar Bahari, who was arrested in 2009 while reporting in Iran, and tortured by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards. Inspired by the courage of Iranian women and men fighting the brutal dictatorship in Iran, JFC is committed to amplifying the voices of persecuted communities and advocating for human rights worldwide.
We stand against oppression, discrimination, and extremism, working to promote justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Through advocacy, education, and global engagement, we raise awareness and foster positive change for those who need it most.
JFC began with a dedication to amplifying the voices of persecuted Iranian citizens as they fought the regime’s extremist, antisemitic, and anti-Baha’i rhetoric, and its support for terrorism around the world.
We have used our experience of successfully implementing projects in a closed society such as Iran to conduct educational and awareness-raising campaigns with partners across the globe. We have worked in over 20 countries, including the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Kenya, Uganda, Iraq, Syria, Pakistan and Australia.
I firmly believe that, at a time when taking a clear moral stance can make you a pariah in your own community, end your career, or put you in jail, telling the truth becomes a historical duty. No matter the cost. I grew up in Iran in the 1980s and witnessed the silence of many intellectuals and activists. This collective silence led to the rise of Ayatollah Khomeini’s dictatorship, the impoverishment of most Iranians, and support for terrorism around the world. I do not want our grandchildren to remember us as the silent generation.
— Maziar Bahari, Founder of JFC and Publisher of Iranwire
Our Mission
Kent County is one of the most severely underserved communities in Tennessee. To combat this adversity, Project Sprout seeks to nourish our neighbors at the most fundamental level with healthy food options and a strong support network. All members get a portion of each harvest and surpluses are donated to low-income families whose work schedules prevent them from volunteering.
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With ten gardens and counting, Project Sprout has seen a significant improvement in mental and physical health for all participating community members. Other than lowering obesity, blood pressure, and depression rates, the crime rate has also fallen. Our children are doing better in school, reporting higher grades and aspirations, and better job prospects.
Get Involved
If you live near one of our gardens, get involved to receive portions of each harvest. We accept volunteers regardless of skill level. There is a rotation in roles, but we’ll teach you all the skills you need to know. Teenagers 14 years and older can earn community service credits for school in addition to getting produce for their families. Donations are also vital to our growth, as we use them for seed, fertilizer, tools, and outreach.