Manhattan Family Awards Scholarships Honoring Late Teen

When Jackson Lewis died by suicide at age 15 in June 2020, his family faced an unimaginable loss. Today, they're channeling their grief into hope by helping other young people pursue their dreams.

The Jackson Lewis Memorial Foundation is now accepting applications for its third annual scholarship program. Five Lincoln-Way West High School seniors will each receive $1,000 to support their college education.

Jackson was a soccer player and avid runner who seemed happy on the outside, his mother Shelly Lewis previously shared. He was a freshman at Lincoln-Way West High School in New Lenox when he took his own life.

Rather than let his story end in tragedy, the Lewis family created a nonprofit foundation focused on three key areas: awareness, education, and research around youth suicide prevention. The foundation specifically targets mental health support for kids 18 and younger.

The scholarship program represents just one piece of the family's broader mission. Through their annual Jog for Jackson 5K and other fundraising efforts, they've built a sustainable way to keep Jackson's memory alive while making a real difference in their community.

The Ripple Effect

What started as one family's loss has grown into a community movement. The foundation brings featured speakers to area schools, creating conversations about mental health that might save lives. Each scholarship recipient carries forward Jackson's legacy, turning pain into purpose.

Students interested in applying can pick up applications at the Lincoln-Way West High School main office. The foundation will evaluate candidates based on their writing responses to prompts, grades, extracurricular activities, and community involvement.

Applications must be submitted to thelewisfoundation59@gmail.com by April 1. Winners will be announced later this spring.

The Lewis family's work proves that even in the darkest moments, there's an opportunity to create light for others.