John Landon Black’s many loved ones memorialized him forever by announcing the John Landon Black foundation on August 18. The United Methodist Church hall was filled to the brim as guests attended the official beginning of the foundation. The foundation intends to honor the late John Landon Black by serving the Clarendon County area. It will provide support and resources to those who are suffering from addiction.
Family friend of the Blacks and board member of the foundation, Amy Land, said,
“Today we are here to ensure that John is never forgotten, and that as a community, we ban together to make sure that nobody else loses their child or loved one to the disease of addiction.”
Land recalled memories she had of Black and described him as outgoing, friendly, and loyal. He loved making friends and showcasing his personality. She said,
“It has been said that only the good die young. This is the case for John Landon Black.”
The logo for the foundation honors Black as much as the foundation itself. The cowboy hat stands for his childhood hobby of dressing up like a cowboy. The sparkle represents Black’s love for dressing nicely and being in the spotlight.
Black’s mother, Stephanie Black, spoke of how much he loved the people of Manning, and how she wanted to give back to those people by creating this foundation in her son’s name. She expressed her gratitude for all the support and love the Manning community has offered her family during this difficult time. She also asked that people not judge one another, because everyone is somehow impacted by drug addiction.
The foundation has already selected the first recipient for the scholarship. The recipient will be sent to a highly esteemed treatment facility for a year long stay. The foundation stated that she is prepared for her treatment and understands that the journey will be long and difficult. More information about the care facility and the recipient of the scholarship will be announced at a later date.
While the John Black Foundation is off to an impressive start, more support and donations to the foundation will allow it to grow bigger and offer care to more people in the community who suffer from addiction. The foundation board plans to hold many fundraisers so Black’s memory can continue to live on. The first fundraiser will be on September 17 at Weldon Auditorium in Manning. There will be a Jeep show, a 5K, food vendors, and many more activities for people of all ages to participate in. The registration fee serves as a donation to the foundation. All proceeds from the event will also go to the foundation. The activities will begin at 8 AM and last until 2 PM.
