What Happened to Jaqualyn?
On Wednesday, April 17, 2019, 18-year-old Jaqualyn Paxton’s life was tragically taken. Her absence is felt not only by her family and friends but also by the world that was touched by her presence. She was a bright and radiant light, known for her ever-present, effervescent smile. Her loss is profound.
In remembrance of Jaqualyn’s joy and kindness, the Jaqualyn’s Light Prevails Foundation was created. Rather than allowing a senseless act of violence to silence her, Jaqualyn’s mother, Shawntell Young, established the Foundation with one purpose in mind: to stop gun violence.
Our Cause
Who We Are
Our Cause
Who We Are
From the heart's cry of a grief-stricken mother emerged the Jaqualyn's Light Prevails Foundation. It's purpose to educate, to equip, and to raise awareness about the dangers of gun violence. With a focus on promoting a safer community and spreading positivity, we aim to inspire change and bring hope to those affected by gun violence.
Founder Shawntell Young and
Jaqualyn Paxton
Mission
To create a safe and nurturing community where every youth is empowered, protected, and inspired to overcome adversity and break the cycle of gun violence.
Vision
Jaqualyn’s Light Prevails is dedicated to raising awareness about gun violence and its impact on our communities. We provide scholarships, mentorship, and a compassionate listening ear to empower youth, foster hope, and promote peace and resilience in our neighborhoods.
A Legacy of Healing
Jaqualyn’s legacy lives on through organ and tissue donation. Aspen Davis from Colorado received tissue from Jaqualyn’s knee, a gift that has helped her walk better and move forward with her life. As a display of her gratitude, Aspen has attended every Gun Violence Awareness event in Texarkana.
“To find out it was someone who was forever 18, that was absolutely shocking to me. I was touched to be able to receive that donation. I definitely wanted to come out and honor that and show appreciation that now I can walk better because of it.” – Aspen Davis
