Support the children of Shonka Dukureh

My name is jeff obafemi carr, and I am one of the many who had the pleasure of knowing the stellar soul known to the world as Shonka Lee White Dukureh . I met her when she was a Dramatics and Speech major at historic Fisk University, where she shared the stage with my wife and a crew of talented personalities. I was pleased to serve as one of her many mentors along the way.

I would eventually have the opportunity to cast Shonka in one of her first professional shows, Langston Hughes' Black Nativity, presented by the Amun Ra Theatre. Shonka's voice and energy transformed all around her in a special way.

The world recently discovered her talent in her featured role as Big Mama Thornton in Baz Luhrmann's blockbuster Elvis film. Her voice was a reflection of her spirit: powerful, heartfelt, and authentic--as was her relationship with her two beautiful children .

Shonka passed away unexpectedly at only 44 years old, leaving her two children and their father to make a way as best they can. On last Saturday, we held her Homegoing Celebration , which was an amazing moment in time (I suggest you take it in when you can, if for nothing else but to be inspired on how to live life to the fullest). At that time, several of her college friends announced opportunities to support a coming Trust Fund for the children to especially attend college, a very noble and heartfelt initiative.

As you know, however, inflation is here now; The struggle for affordable housing and livability is here now; and this young family--now without their mother--is in need of immediate relief.

So I am asking for you to join me for the next several hours to deliver some immediate assistance at a time when school is just starting, daycare costs are off the charts, and the financial contribution of two co-parents has, sadly, become a solitary responsibility.

For those who know me, I am grateful for the many crowdfunding initiatives you have joined me for, including building Nashville's first Micro-Home Village for the Homeless, building The Infinity Center, and providing Tornado relief. As before, the funds raised will be received by The Infinity Fellowship and distributed directly and immediately to the family Shonka leaves behind.

In my 55 years, I have seen what happens when people come together around a good cause. This is one of the most meaningful ones ever.

The amount isn't astronomical (I'm sure there are people out there who could cover the amount in one swipe), but it is meaningful, needed, and appreciated. I would like us to meet, exceed, and expand this giving, as every single dime will be sent to the family.

If you are uncomfortable with GoFundMe, you may also give directly to the children's father, Charlie Huddleston, via ven mo (@leohuddleston). It matters not the platform, but the support, after all.

Thank you for helping us to help Shonka's Kids. As always...

Click

Donate

Share

Let's get this done, together.

Sincerely,

Rev. jeff obafemi carr

The Infinity Fellowship and Infinity Center