In a significant move to address the aftermath of escalating gun violence, Quavo’s Rocket Foundation has swiftly established an emergency trauma therapy fund aimed at providing crucial mental health support to the youth and families impacted by recent tragic shootings in Atlanta. This initiative underscores the urgent need for comprehensive healing within communities grappling with the profound psychological toll of such devastating events.
The urgency of this fund is deeply personal for the Rocket Foundation, as two fatal victims of last weekend’s gun violence had direct, profound ties to the organization. Among those tragically lost was 18-year-old Deshawn Cooper, a promising participant in the 2024 Rocket Camp, alongside “Coach Ball,” a respected leader within the Offender Alumni Association, an affiliate of the foundation. Their untimely deaths highlight the pervasive reach of gun violence and its devastating impact on individuals striving for positive change.
All contributions directed to the newly launched Therapy Support Fund are earmarked to directly finance vital therapy support and mental health resources. These provisions are specifically designed for the children and young adults residing in the communities most severely affected by the recent wave of shootings. The fund aims to mitigate the long-term psychological damage and foster resilience in a generation subjected to profound trauma.
The Rocket Foundation articulated its commitment via an impactful Instagram statement, emphasizing the creation of the emergency fund following the horrific weekend in Atlanta, which saw at least 49 individuals shot. The statement explicitly acknowledged the “tragic loss” of Rocket Foundation’s 2024 Rocket Camper Deshawn Cooper and Spark Grantee leader of Offenders Alumni Association, Coach Ball, reinforcing the personal motivation behind this community-focused initiative.
Further elaborating on their community engagement, the organization issued a powerful call-to-action, directing resources to two of their Spark Grantees: @cureviolenceoaaa and @hope.hustlers. These organizations are directly involved in working with the impacted individuals. The foundation implored the public to honor the pain and loss by spreading awareness and donating, stressing that while nothing can replace those lost, collective action can significantly aid community healing during this trying period.
Quavo’s deep commitment to combating gun violence and supporting its victims stems from personal tragedy. The Rocket Foundation itself was initially established in 2022, shortly after the devastating loss of his nephew and fellow Migos member, Takeoff, who was also a victim of gun violence. This deeply personal experience fuels Quavo’s dedication to advocacy and provides a poignant backdrop to the foundation’s mission for gun violence prevention and mental health support.
The launch of this therapy fund serves as a critical reminder of the pervasive and often overlooked mental health crisis that accompanies widespread gun violence. It highlights the vital role of artists and public figures in leveraging their platforms for meaningful social change, fostering community healing and providing essential resources where they are most desperately needed. This proactive approach to trauma care is indispensable for helping Atlanta communities navigate profound grief and begin the arduous journey toward recovery.
