The T.H.I.N.K. (There’s Hope In New Knowledge) organization held a back-to-school event at G. W. Carver Center on July 30, 2022, to honor two high school graduates and program supporters. Following is a little history on the individual the scholarships were made in honor of: Ny’Quavion Martin-Childs was a young man that was a member of T.H.I.N.K. He started in the program when he was in middle school and continued through high school. He was a very academic sound student and loved sports. He wanted to attend the University of Michigan when he graduated from high school. However, in February 2021, he was diagnosed with cancer. He attended Peoria High School and maintained his studies and grades through chemo and trips to the hospital until his passing on January 12, 2022. “Boog Strong” was the motto embraced by his family and friends. Despite his brief time, he touched the hearts of many and is truly and deeply missed.
Ny’Quavion’s family was in attendance: Sunyeal Mokua-Mother, Bernice Jones-Great Aunt, Keith Jones-Uncle, and several other family members.
The two members of T.H.I.N.K. and Peoria High School graduates that received a scholarship in his name were Kayana Polk, who will be attending Southern Illinois University@Carbondale and Nevaeh Lyles, who will be attending Western Illinois University
Several program supporters received certificates and plaques of appreciation for their continued service and hard work: Mr. Craig Bailey, Mr. Larry Hendricks, Ms. Terri Brooks, Mr. Lawson Giles, Mrs. Alfreida DeGroot, Mrs. Della McKnight, Ms. Carolyn Faulkner, Ms. DeRosa Crawford, Mrs. Judy Porter, Bishop Leroy Smith, Mrs. Gwen Wilson, Mrs. Pat Tillman, and Mr. Devon Sydnor.
Also, short presentations were given by Mrs. LaTrina Leary, Township Supervisor from Peoria Township Relief, Mr. Bruce Estes, owner of Family Ride, and Marilyn and Terry Woods from 92nd Buffalo E & T LLC.
The back-to-school scholarship will be an annual event in honor of Ny’Quavion “Boog” Martin-Childs.
The Traveler Weekly 