28/01/2025
Parker Family Launches Foundation to Honor Late Son Julius K. Parker Jr.
(Sunday, January 25, 2025, Indianapolis, IN) – On Saturday, January 25, 2025, the Parker family of Indiana, United States, officially launched the Julius K. Parker Jr. Lending Hand Foundation, Inc. in honor of their late son, Julius K. Parker Jr. The ceremony, held at FLIZPSTYLZE Entertainment Events and Promotions on Crawfordsville Road, drew family, friends, and community members from across the country.
The foundation was established to carry forward the vision and values of Julius, a vibrant 19-year-old whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence in January 2024. Despite the heartache of his passing, the Parker family is determined to turn their grief into action by continuing his mission of helping underprivileged children and promoting educational empowerment.
In her emotional opening remarks, Mrs. Sonie Parker, Julius Jr.’s mother, welcomed attendees with grace and strength.
“I promised myself not to be too emotional today,” she said. “I wish this was a graduation party. I wish this was his wedding. Unfortunately, this is where we are. But I know where there has been darkness, God will give us the strength to shine light.”
Mrs. Parker spoke of the enduring love she has for her late son and her commitment to honoring his memory. “Julius had such a big heart, always thinking of others. I will carry him in my heart until my last breath. This program is for a worthy cause, and I thank you all for being here to celebrate his legacy.”
The keynote speaker, Mr. Anthony Beverly, Founder of “Stop the Violence in Indianapolis,” delivered a powerful message titled “Hiding Pain in Plain Sight.” He commended the Parker family for turning their tragedy into a mission of hope and urged the community to remain united in the fight against violence.
“When I was asked to speak tonight, I was hesitant,” Beverly admitted. “But I knew this was important. Since Julius’ death, this community has come together in ways we’ve never seen before. Unity is our greatest strength, and we must continue to stand together—not just to seek justice for Julius but to denounce all forms of violence in our neighborhoods.”
He emphasized that the power to create change lies within the community, encouraging everyone to be proactive in supporting the foundation’s mission and advocating for peace.
Julius K. Parker Sr., the father of the late Julius Jr., shared heartfelt memories of his son and the dreams he held dear. “His passion was always to help others, especially children who didn’t have the opportunities he had,” he said.
Julius Jr. dreamed of returning to Liberia, his family’s homeland, to uplift vulnerable children through education and mentorship. “He wanted to assess the needs of children back home and find ways to make a difference. That was his heart—giving back,” Mr. Parker Sr. added.
The Parker family’s commitment to preserving Julius’ legacy has already begun to make an impact. In December 2024, Mr. Parker Sr. traveled to Liberia to officially register the foundation and assess the challenges facing schools in the country.
He witnessed firsthand the dire conditions in Montserrado County schools, where students lack basic supplies and proper seating, and teachers struggle with inadequate training and resources. These observations have inspired the foundation’s initial focus on providing school supplies, financial aid, and professional development opportunities for educators.
The Julius K. Parker Jr. Lending Hand Foundation, Inc. is dedicated to empowering underprivileged children and improving access to education in Liberia. By addressing systemic challenges in the educational sector, the foundation seeks to transform lives and fulfill Julius’ vision of creating opportunities for future generations.
“Through this foundation, Julius’ light continues to shine,” said Mr. Parker Sr. “We hope to inspire others to join us in this mission, ensuring that his dream lives on.”
Julius K. Parker Jr. was more than a son and friend; he was a beacon of hope and inspiration. A talented musician, wrestler, and football player, Julius pursued his dream of becoming a psychiatrist at Ball State University. His compassion and discipline touched everyone he encountered, and his unwavering faith in God guided his actions.
Though his life was tragically cut short, Julius’ legacy endures through the foundation that bears his name. For the Parker family, this journey is not just about honoring their son but about turning pain into purpose and creating a brighter future for the children of Liberia.