Atlanta’s Favorite Hood Santa Jacquees Makes Holidays Bright Via HIs One Step Forward Foundation’s Fourth Annual Christmas Giveaway
“Home for the holidays is,” a coined phrase most used to describe the warmth and happiness of the holidays. But how do you find the right words to describe the happiest time of the year in the absence of the family’s matriarch? Dasie Snow redefined the term devotion. At the center of the Broadnax family, Dasie Snow was the epitome of love, compassion, and kindness. A woman who spent a lifetime devoted to her loved ones, caring for others, and seeking new ways to pay it forward in the community, especially during the most joyous time of the year. A pillar of strength and hope, she was deeply rooted in her spirituality, always giving thanks and grace to the Highest. It is no surprise that she became the inspiration for the “One Step Forward Foundation” founded by singer/songwriter Jacquees and his family. A foundation whose core mission is “taking one step forward to enrich and empower youth through relief effort, scholarships, and music education.”
I enjoyed experiencing this year’s One Step Forward Foundation’s fourth annual Christmas giveaway, just blocks away from the singer’s childhood home. The grace, compassion, and unity were undeniable. A full-circle moment for the singer, to host a giveaway every year, just behind Primetime Barber Shop, a space where he would go as a child and sing while gathering tips to take back home. From vision to realization, a real “dream come true” for the singer while remaining connected to his roots. You didn’t have to know Dasie Snow to feel her presence there. The love exuding through each family member, as they helped make this holiday season feel extra special to families in need, was a true reflection of who the Broadnax family is at their core. The energy during this year’s event was magical. When they said this was a family-operated 501C3, I had to see it for myself to believe it. All hands were on deck! Amongst many volunteers, family loved ones, and Atlanta’s favorite hood Santa, Jacquees Broadnax (CEO),
I had a moment to catch up with the King of R&B himself and speak to him about the importance of staying connected to the community despite his grueling schedule and the significance of giving back; his response, “of course I have a busy schedule, but I always gotta make sure I give back to my hood and my community. It’s very important to me, I come from this same side of town. It’s always good to give back. We put smiles on people’s faces [and] we make their Christmas a little brighter”. As one of the most determined working men in the business, you can see that remaining a pillar of hope for the youth and local community is a clear priority for multi-talented singer/
The work for One Step Forward Foundation doesn’t stop after the holidays; Rozzie Broadnax (COO), Marcelle Griffith Burke (CMO), and the OSFF team make an effort all year round to become involved in contributing, elevating, and giving back to those in need. From providing box seats at The Atlanta Hawk’s game for 25 children, to assisting in relief efforts locally, or simply taking a 72 road-hour trip to Jamaica to hand-deliver backpacks filled with school supplies to over 20 families in need, the mission is simple – empowerment through relief effort. It’s safe to say that the One Step Forward Foundation is making great strides in becoming a long-term cornerstone for Decatur and the city of Atlanta!
About the Author
Abbie Knights has worked in the entertainment industry for over 20 years. Currently, she is also the host of her radio show "The Abbie Knights Show" with over 100,000 listeners per show, available on FM Radio, iHeart Radio, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify.
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