Support McKenzie Adams Foundation's Toy Drive

Question: What inspired you to start The McKenzie Foundation, and what do you hope to achieve with its mission?
Answer: The McKenzie Adams Foundation was born out of the devastating loss of my precious niece, McKenzie, who was just 9 years old when she took her own life due to relentless racial bullying at school. The foundation was created to prevent other families from experiencing the pain we went through. We wanted to raise awareness about the severe impact of bullying, provide suicide prevention resources and offer support to families who face similar tragedies. Our mission is to ensure that no child ever feels alone or hopeless, and to give families the tools to heal.

Question: What are some of the key programs or techniques your foundation uses to support those affected by bullying and suicide?
Answer: The McKenzie Adams Foundation is focused on three main areas: prevention, education and healing. We provide motivational speaking engagements in schools and communities to raise awareness about the devastating effects of bullying and to empower kids to speak up and seek help. We also offer grief processing workshops to help families cope with loss, especially those who have lost a loved one due to bullying or suicide. Additionally, we focus on suicide prevention by providing resources and counseling to those struggling. Our programs aim to equip both children and adults with the skills to navigate these challenging issues.

Question: How does your organization provide grief healing for families dealing with loss due to bullying or suicide?
Answer: Grieving the loss of a loved one, especially a child, is unimaginable. Through the McKenzie Adams Foundation, we offer grief counseling and support groups for families affected by suicide or bullying-related deaths. Healing doesn’t come overnight. So, we make sure that families have access to long-term support, whether it’s through one-on-one therapy, group sessions, a safe space to talk about their pain and resources for parents and caregivers, helping them navigate their grief.

Question: How did the McKenzie Foundation’s annual toy drive start, and what impact does it have on the community?
Answer: The McKenzie Foundation’s annual toy drive, which is in its third year, started as a way to bring joy and smiles to children who might be facing hardships like McKenzie did. In honor of her memory, we decided to create an opportunity for children who have been impacted by bullying, suicide or other difficult circumstances to experience a moment of happiness. The toy drive not only brings much-needed gifts to families, but it also serves as a reminder of McKenzie's spirit, and the importance of community support. It’s been an incredible way for people to come together, show love and make a tangible difference in the lives of children who need it the most.

Question: How can people contribute or get involved with the toy drive this year?
Answer: People can get involved by donating new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages. Additionally, we welcome financial donations, which will be used to purchase toys and cover event costs. Volunteers also are needed to help with organizing the drive and distributing the toys. People can visit our website or follow us on social media for more information on how to participate and give back this holiday season.

Drop off locations include:

·         Jazzy Beauty Hair Salon, located at 3418 Buena Vista Road # E, Columbus

·         VVS KUTS, located inside Peachtree Mall, 3131 Manchester Expressway, Columbus

·         HairNation Beauty Supply, located at 100 Forsyth St., Buena Vista, Georgia

·         The Gospel Grapevine Show in Buena Vista, Georgia. Call (229) 314-3191.

·         VeraNique Boutique, located at 1029 Broadway, Columbus

·         Wilson Financials, located in Columbus, call (813) 563-1906

·         Kombat Zone, located in 9483 Mullin Road Suite A, Smiths Station, Ala.

Question: What are your hopes for the future of The McKenzie Foundation?
Answer: My hopes for the future of the McKenzie Adams Foundation are that we continue to expand our reach and impact. I want to see the foundation grow so that we can support more families, prevent more tragedies, and foster a culture where bullying is no longer tolerated. I envision a world where every child feels safe, supported and loved, and where no one has to suffer in silence. Through education, resources, and community involvement, I believe we can make that vision a reality.

Question: Where can people learn more information about The McKenzie Foundation and how can they keep up with you on social media?
Answer: Visit our Facebook page. We regularly update the site with information on our programs, events and ways to get involved. You can also follow us on social media to stay up to date with the foundation’s initiatives, stories and messages of hope. Find us on Facebook searching for “The McKenzie Adams Foundation.” We appreciate the outpouring of love and support from people around the world, and we encourage everyone to join us in spreading McKenzie’s message of kindness and resilience.