ABOUT US
JUMPS FOR JOHNNIE URSERY IV FOUNDATION
Jumps for Johnnie Ursery IV Foundation Inc. was established in St. Louis, Missouri, to honor the legacy of Johnnie Ursery IV - a passionate young basketball player whose determination and leadership continue to inspire others. The foundation empowers under-resourced youth, ages 10-19, through basketball, mentorship, and mental health awareness programs that promote resilience, teamwork, and personal growth. The foundation provides free or low-cost basketball leagues, camps, and workshops in partnership with local schools and churches. Participants receive mentorship focused on leadership, academic success, and positive life choices. The foundation also offers mental health and peer pressure awareness sessions to help youth navigate challenges in their daily lives. Each year, the foundation hosts the "Jumps for Johnnie" Tournament and Fundraiser to bring the community together, celebrate youth achievement, and raise funds for scholarships and sports equipment assistance. All funds raised through donations, sponsorships, and grants are used to support these charitable programs. No income benefits any private individual. Any net surplus is reinvested into future programs to ensure sustainability and long-term community impact.
JUMPING TOWARD BRIGHTER FUTURES.
The Jumps for Johnnie Ursery IV Foundation was created in loving memory of Johnnie Ursery IV, who was just 15 years old and beginning his 10th-grade year at Ladue Horton Watkins High School when he passed away. Johnnie would have been part of the Class of 2026.
Johnnie had a deep passion for basketball, playing for many years of his life — including time in Atlanta, Georgia. Off the court, he loved to cook and dreamed of becoming a chef, earning the affectionate nickname “Chef Johnnie.”
Johnnie was vibrant, joyful, and full of humor — a loving son, brother, nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend whose smile, energy and heart touched everyone around him.
In his honor, the Jumps for Johnnie Ursery IV Foundation Inc. was created to keep his name and spirit alive by empowering young men ages 10–19 to pursue their passions through basketball, while addressing peer pressure, mental health awareness, and personal growth.
Every program, event, and outreach we do stands as a reflection of Johnnie’s joy, resilience, and love for life.
Every Jump Honors Johnnie’s Journey.
MEET JOHNNIE URSERY IV
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