On Tuesday, February 13, 2018, Detroit Police Officer Darren Weathers was killed in the line of duty as a result of a motor vehicle accident. A former U.S. military veteran, Officer Weathers served with the Detroit Police Department for nearly 2 years.
As has been said in the past on numerous occasions, no one cares for their community like the American police officer. Officer Weathers was a shining example of this, even having a viral video captured of him taking time from his patrol functions to engage young kids playing in the street.
In his honor, Darren’s mother, Chonita Johnson, and family began a foundation called “I.D.R.E.A.M. with Darren”. Broken down, the acronym is intended to represent: Integrity, Determination, Respect, Education, Ambition, and Motivation.
Chonita recently drove to Jersey City, NJ in order to attend the 2018 Walk to Remember and spoke about her son. While she was there, we asked her if she could give us some background on her foundation and it’s goals.
Q: What inspired you to start the I.D.R.E.A.M. With Darren Foundation?
A: I started the foundation in my son’s honor. My family and I wanted to continue the work my son had started; we wanted to ensure that his legacy will never be forgotten.
Q: What are the Foundation’s goals?
A: The primary goal of the foundation is to continue to empower and enrich the lives of the Detroit area youth. We want to help them understand that, despite their surroundings, they can achieve anything that they set their mind too, just as Darren did.
Q: How can people get involved?
A: Everyone is welcomed to participate. The easiest way is to visit our website (below). All support, prayers, time and monetary donations are accepted.
Q: Tell us about an upcoming event.
A: Our next event is scheduled for Saturday August 4th, 2018. We’re having a community block party and calling it “Darren’s Day”. There will be food, a bounce house, dancing, community resources and, of course, basketball, which was Darren’s favorite sport. We will also be giving out backpacks full of school supplies, helping some of the area youth start the new school year off right. Again, all donations can be made through our website.
For more information on the ‘I.D.R.E.A.M. With Darren Foundation’ and for donations: