Our Purpose

While on a family vacation after Ikechukwu was called home to God, Ikechukwu’s mother Indira Onwuzurike had an encounter with God who told her to communicate Ike’s message and continue his Earthly mission of good works. She was inspired to write the book, “Losing Ike to God and How God Comforted Us” and along with Ikechukwu’s father Chris created a foundation to honor his memory and carry on his mission of doing good, one person at a time. By December the original Board of Trustees had been established and the foundation had its First Board Meeting on Sunday December 14th, 2014.

The year began with the selection process for the Ikechukwu Onwuzurike Guardian Angel Scholarship and after reviewing several applications, 3 Brother Rice students were selected to receive $1,000.00 scholarships later that year. The annual “Dodge for a cause” fundraiser was held in February for the first time. May saw the 1st annual “run with Ike” 5K run. In addition to these activities, planning was going on in earnest all year for the 1st annual gala and memorial for Ike on the anniversary of his being called to heaven. The event emcee was Teresa Tomeo, host of a syndicated Catholic radio show, Catholic Connection. In August, Teresa interviewed Indira and WIWD Chairman Bob Barnes on Her morning radio show.

The “Dodge for a Cause” event in February at Seaholm again raised essential funds for the organization, while also keeping Ike’s friends and acquaintances involved in the efforts of the Foundation. The memorial event became the annual Gala and was held June 18 at the Kingsley Inn in Bloomfield Hills. Christian music and dancing filled the night as the gathered supporters of Ike’s Scholar recipient was announced: Michael Singleton. The remainder of the year has been consumed with planning for upcoming events in the 2017 calendar year and expanding the Foundation’s reach by including support for suicide awareness and prevention through spiritual balance in conjunction with Joseph J. Laurencelle Memorial Foundation.