04/16/2026
Remembering Andrew Kareem Giles Jr. 🤍
Today would have been Andrew’s 21st birthday—a moment to hold both joy and grief, and to celebrate the life he lived so fully. Andrew was someone who built things—literally and figuratively. He loved Legos, dreamed big, and once told his class he wanted to grow up to be “34 and a dad.” It was specific, funny, and so *him*—thoughtful, creative, and unforgettable.
Friday evening, his family will honor him with a lantern release by the ocean—21 lights sent into the sky as a reflection of the love he continues to inspire. In that same spirit, they are bringing his legacy forward through the launch of Mind Over MatterZ, creating space for young people to feel seen, supported, and empowered through life’s challenges.
At St. Luke Legacy Center, we carry Andrew with us in our work. As a participant and advocate in our Protect in Peace: Youth Weapons & Violence Prevention Program, he believed in safer communities and stronger support for young people. That belief continues to guide us.
This Saturday, Protect in Peace programs continue here in Richmond. It’s one of the ways we can turn remembrance into action—by showing up, building community, and investing in our youth with care and intention.
If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, this is your moment. Join us. Learn more. Be part of the work that surrounds our young people with the support they deserve.
We honor Andrew not just in memory, but in what we build moving forward. 🕊️
🔗 click the link in our bio to donate to Andrew’s family nonprofit AND get involved in the SLLC violence prevention program(s)/events
