Marcel Jones was focused, skilled, dedicated, helpful, humble, and kind. Committed to finding work that would allow him to afford stable housing and support his family, he was participating in Rising Sun's pre-apprenticeship program, and was set to graduate in one week. Marcel was this cohort's recipient of the Arvin Naeole Award for Strength, Endurance, Resilience, and Leadership, and was on his way to a career in the construction trades.

Marcel passed away on August 25. The circumstances of Marcel’s death are devastating. Marcel was living in the Berkeley homeless shelter Harrison House and was murdered on Sunday by his bunkmate in what is being investigated as a racist hate crime. The man who murdered Marcel is under arrest and has been charged with homicide.

Marcel's death is keenly felt by all who knew him, particularly by his mother and his three young children. Rising Sun is facilitating this GoFundMe on their behalf to help cover the costs of funeral expenses, which can be significant. Marcel deserves a fitting resting place and memorial that recognizes his humanity and his contributions to this world.

Thank you for any support you're able to contribute - every bit helps and will go directly to Marcel's family via his mother (L.H.)

With love,

The Rising Sun Family