Tornado Devastates Urban Born’s Gym—Help Us Rebuild
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Urgent: Tornado Devastates Urban Born’s Gym and Basement—Help Us Rebuild for Our Youth
On Friday, May 16, a powerful tornado tore through North St. Louis and devastated the heart of our nonprofit, Urban Born—destroying our gymnasium, a vital space that has long served as a safe haven for inner-city youth.
This gym has been more than just a building. It’s a training ground, a support hub, and a second home for countless young people in College Hill and surrounding communities. It’s where kids grow stronger—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It's where hope is restored and purpose ignited.
Now, it's gone.
A video taken by our Founder and President, Johnel Langerston, captures the heartbreaking scope of the destruction—and the urgency of this moment.
We need your help to rebuild.
Whether you can give $25, $2,500, or any amount, your gift will make a direct impact.
Funds raised will go toward:
- Rebuilding the gymnasium and restoring programs
- Replacing equipment and supplies lost in the tornado
- Continuing our youth development and mentorship services
Sadly, despite our best efforts, our property was not insured. We are fully reliant on the generosity of individuals, businesses, churches, and foundations who believe in our mission and our kids.
Urban Born is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. Our EIN is 204588021.
Ways to Give Outside of GoFundMe:
If you'd prefer to give directly (and avoid platform fees), we gladly accept:
- Zelle: [phone redacted]
- Cash App: $FromGirlzIIWomen
- Checks payable to Urban Born, mailed to:
Don Stahlhut
4217 Webster Street
Oakland, CA 94609
From Supporter Keith Asphy:
“I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of Urban Born. The gym isn’t just walls and a floor—it’s a space where futures are shaped. Let’s rally to restore what these youth depend on.”
Thank you for standing with us during this difficult time. With your support, we will rise stronger and continue building a better future for our youth.
UB Founder Johnel Langerston & the Urban Born Team
1455 E. College Ave., St. Louis, MO 63107
Here's a brief reflection of our journey.
Learn more about Urban Born: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEp_outQ458
Thank you for your prayers and support!
Organizer
La Tasha Langerston
Organizer
St Louis, MO