Vaughn

You treated me like a son, and beyond that you were not only my godfather, but also a friend and mentor. You also gave me knowledge. When I was hungry, you made sure I ate. When I had no money, you made sure I had money in my pocket. I was so shocked and devastated to get the news that I am still in disbelief. I cannot believe you are gone. My children and I are going to really miss you, John. Thank you for everything! I am not going to disappoint you because you

Love you, from E’lonte Vaughn and family.

Non-Profit Organizations

Alkebu-lan Cultural Center

I have known my great friend John J. Kennedy since 2013. We met at one of his Community Thanksgiving turkey giveaways. He not only hosted that event, but he also hosted many other food giveaways and his famous annual Christmas parties which was extended to everyone in Pasadena.

John and I shared a deep passion and commitment to Pasadena’s evolving Black arts community. We spent countless hours brainstorming ways to implement programs which would support African American art in Pasadena.

John was an amazing human being. He cared about what happened to all people with an emphasis on the plight of the Black community. He had a level of sensitivity to seniors always looking out for them and creating ways to help as well as always checking on them. What most people do not know is that John worked ridiculously hard to secure housing for seniors. He wanted to change the face of homelessness. Teens and children in our community was an important part of his mission in life to ensure that they had a successful future and the required opportunities which would allow them to achieve their goals. It was important for him to see the smiles on children’s faces. What was unique about John was that he always had something positive to say. He encouraged me and always told me to “never give up.”

He was determined to support me in my role at the Alkebu-lan Cultural Center. He sent me prayers that were just for me. He used to tell me that, “You are one of the most amazing persons that I know.” He would comment, “You are the Alkebu-lan from sunup and sundown. I know God is going to bless you because of what you are doing for Pasadena.”

John wanted people to come together – he wanted us to be “One Pasadena.” He wanted people to be the best that they could be as human beings. John was constantly working to help people be their best, his motivation to me was consistent, and he cared about everybody. He knew how to connect to all people and work with anyone willing to help him be effective in serving the community. I will miss his love and that amazing smile.

Dianne Lewis, CEO/ Executive Director of Alkebu-lan Cultural Center