Message from the Executive Director
Jack and Jill Foundation Supports Mental Health
To the Jack and Jill Foundation Community:
We are mourning with the University of Virginia community as well as the entire Black community after the deadly shooting that took the lives of three young Black men, Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis and D’Sean Perry. Our deepest condolences are with the families and friends of those killed, as well as with the family and friends of those injured, Michael Hollins, Jr. and Marlee Morgan.
This tragic act of violence was senseless, and our hearts are breaking. At a painful time like this, it is imperative that we reach out and ask for help and ensure that our communities have the resources they need to grieve. Jack and Jill Foundation aims to support the mental health of our community throughout all of our philanthropy efforts, and at a time like this, we want to serve as a source of assistance for those in need.
Aeva Gaymon-Doomes, Jack and Jill Foundation board member and child psychiatrist, says, “Philanthropic investments in mental health resources for Black students is critical to their overall wellness and success.”
Tragedies like University of Virginia and the recent mass shooting in Chesapeake, VA are reminders that we must prioritize mental health in our communities. We recommend the resources below as starting points in ensuring your community has what they need to process these horrific violent acts.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
We stand with the families of the victims as they attempt to pick up the pieces, and we will continue to pray for all of those impacted in these tragedies.
Sincerely,
Pier AH Blake
Executive Director