Help Tayshawn Heal, Grow, and Inspire Change in His Community

On what should have been a normal walk home from school on Tuesday 10-7-25, 16-year-old Tayshawn Jones was the victim of a horrifying and unprovoked act of violence.

In Denver's Park Hill neighborhood, Tayshawn was ambushed from behind and stabbed in the neck by a stranger—just as he was unlocking his front door. In a terrifying fight for his life, he managed to fend off the attacker and sprint to a relative’s house, with the assailant chasing him the entire way.

Tayshawn is my mentee; we met at the Park Hill Boys & Girls Club music studio I used to operate. Over the years, we've recorded music, filmed videos, and performed together. He is a passionate, creative, and driven young man with big dreams and a message the world needs to hear.

Despite this traumatic experience, Tayshawn is determined to rise above it. He hopes to use his story to promote unity and nonviolence, especially in Park Hill, a neighborhood with a history of street violence. Instead of responding with anger or retreat, Tayshawn wants to become a voice of hope and healing for his peers.

To support his healing, growth, and future, we’re raising funds to help Tayshawn:

Purchase a phone for safety and connection.

Save for a car for safer transportation to school and activities.

Cover future educational expenses, including college.

Find a safe, supportive job opportunity in the Denver area.

Develop his talent as a young recording artist (equipment, studio time, mentorship).

Tayshawn didn’t deserve this. No young person does. But with your help, he can begin to rebuild—stronger, safer, and with a renewed sense of purpose.

Any amount helps. If you’re unable to donate, please share this campaign and help us connect with people who can support his journey.

Thank you for standing with Tayshawn in this critical moment.