Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Berry.
Taylor, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
34 Reasons Foundation was established to service minority students in the inner-city communities, Victims of cancer, and student-athletes. My brother Kalen Berry, a board member of 34 Reasons Foundation and graduate of Newman Smith HS, was diagnosed his Junior year of HS with rhabdomyosarcoma Cancer, a student-athlete as well for Newman Smith. Currently enrolled at North Texas and volunteered with the football program (Football Support Staff).
(Taylor) After playing collegiate football For Langston University and not living out the dream, and devoting so much time & money to have the opportunity to play in the NFL, I wanted to make a difference amongst young black athletes who only have an identity with sports.
After moving back to Oklahoma and graduating from the University of Oklahoma with my Masters in Adult & Higher Ed, I began to see the potential impact I could make with not only students but athletes as well. After witnessing what my brother had to go through day in and day out, how could I uplift communities with awareness on rhabdomyosarcoma cancer? If I was being honest, if Michael Garrett didn’t sit me down in his office, November of 2014, asking what’s next, I doubt I would have been at OU. Often times I wonder what life would be like if he didn’t have that conversation with me. The goal of the foundation is to eliminate excuses, provide mentorship, and create resources to aid students, athletes, and those who need assistance who are victims of cancer.
Has it been a smooth road?
Life has its bumps and bruises, medical expenses, little brother fighting for his life, trying to finish school, parents trying to make things happen all at once, The mental weight of it all made it uncomfortable for sure!
Please tell us about 34 Reasons Foundation.
34 Reasons Foundation is a service to provide resources to underprivileged students, victims of cancer and lastly mentorship to student-athletes. What I’m most proud of is, The foundation is actually just getting started. It took awhile to process the 5013c, although when Anastasia Pittman came to speak and Cowboy Chicken sponsored lunch, it made up for lost time.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Dallas is my home, no place like it!!!
Contact Info:
- Address: 100 NE 4th Street OKC, OK 73104
- Phone: 405-537-5544
- Instagram: _34__Reasons
Image Credit:
HS Gametime, Millwood Public Schools
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