The June ActiveRain Challenge has sparked so many creative ways to "spend" our imaginary points, and I’ve loved reading every inspiring post. But for me, there's one cause that immediately came to mind, one that holds a permanent place in my heart. This is my third post for the challenge.
I’m proudly donating $1,000,000 of my ActiveRain points to the John Lockhart Foundation.
John Lockhart was a remarkable soul, a talented Austin musician and a fellow member of our real estate community. He lived big-heartedly, always lifting others up. I had the privilege of knowing him personally.
Years ago, John reached out to me about his sister, who had entered real estate but was struggling to find her footing. He asked if I’d consider mentoring her and have her join my brokerage. Of course, I said yes! She interviewed my managing broker she was on board! That was seven years ago, and mentoring her has been one of the easiest, most rewarding decisions I’ve made.
What I didn’t know then was how close we would become. or that we’d end up walking a heartbreaking road together as John faced his devastating battle with colon cancer. She stood by him every step of the way. Watching her courage and his strength was deeply moving.
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When John passed away at just 56, it was a tragic loss, not only for his family and friends, but for Austin’s music and real estate scenes. But his spirit lives on through the John Lockhart Foundation, created by his sister and a close-knit group of committed friends.
The foundation focuses on two powerful missions:
♦ Raising and distributing funds to children in greatest need throughout Austin, one of John’s deepest passions.
♦ Bringing awareness to colon cancer, a disease that’s striking younger and more aggressively. Early detection saves lives, and John’s story drives that message home.
One of the largest beneficiaries of the Foundation’s efforts has been the Center for Child Protection, the only nonprofit in Travis County involved in investigating crimes against children. For over 30 years, this child-focused facility has provided forensic interviews, medical exams, counseling, and intervention, all at no cost, in both English and Spanish—for children and protective caregivers during some of the darkest moments of their lives.
John was stolen from this world far too soon. But through this Foundation, his legacy continues, with compassion, with music, with action.
As a beloved local musician for over three decades, John’s presence is still felt in Austin’s music scene. Whether you're moved to sing in your car, donate to a cause, or attend a benefit concert in his name, every expression of music is an expression of joy, and a tribute to John.
If you heard him ONCE, your life was changed.
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