Tameka Raymond, ex-wife of singer Usher, is launching the Give Thanks 5k Run/Walk in Atlanta in honor of her son Kile who died last year after a tragic jet skiing accident.
Throughout the past year, Tameka has frequently made entertainment news headlines, but this time it’s not about gossip or legal battles.
Tameka wanted to create a project that would benefit her son’s charitable organization, the Kile’s World Foundation, which is aimed at helping children receive comprehensive art education.
The foundation pays for everything from music lessons to acting classes for students who wouldn’t be able to afford it otherwise.
While the 5k run/walk, which is scheduled for Nov. 30, may not be an artistic event, Tameka explained that there are many health benefits to be gained when children and parents exercise together.
“It’s been proven that physical activity is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your health, so we are excited about families joining us as we get active and stay healthy,” Tameka said.
Tameka isn’t the only famous lady who is involved in the run either.
R&B singer Syleena Johnson will be a part of the project, as well as Donna Richardson Joyner who is a well-known fitness guru and sports commentator for ESPN.
Joyner explained that the fitness aspect of the run is great, but what she loves the most is that Tameka is allowing her son to still save and touch lives, even in death.
“It’s really great that even in Kile’s death, lives will be saved,” she said.
The bittersweet moment is a reminder that the organization was founded from Kile’s love for all things artistic and creative.
“The arts were extremely important to my son, Kile,” Tameka said before extending her invitation for families to come out and shed some pounds before the holidays arrive.
“So as we kick off the holiday season, I’m inviting everyone to give back while burning off those extra Thanksgiving calories,” she said. “In the process, you will be making a camper’s dream come true.”
The Give Thanks 5K Run/Walk will take place on Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Chastain Park in Atlanta.
All proceeds will go directly to the Kile’s World Foundation and donations can be made online at KilesWorldFoundation.org.
