The Sadonte Foundation

The Sadonte Foundation Welcome to the Sadonte Foundation. In memory of Raphael Sadonte Ward, our organization provides non-violence alternatives to youth in low-income areas.

On January 4, 2013, Raphael Sadonte Ward, a bright-eyed 16 year-old son, brother, friend, and promising athlete became a victim of gun-violence at the hands of another teenager, who more than likely lacked positive influences and exposure to diversity. In honor of Sadonte's life, we have come together to build The Sadonte Foundation - committed to:

S - Stopping
A - Assault
D - and Destruction
O

- in Our
N - Neighborhoods
T - Today
E - and Everyday

The sad truth is that homicide victims and offenders have gotten younger. Teen violence/homicide is the second leading cause of death among teenagers. According to statistics obtained from the NYPD Crime and Enforcement Activity (2012), murder and non-negligent manslaughter victims are most frequently African-American (64.1%) or Hispanic (25.0%). Not surprisingly, the race/ethnicity of known murder and non-negligent manslaughter suspects mirrors the victim population with Black (55.1%) and Hispanic (30.8%) accounting for the majority of percentage. In the midst of tragedy and sorrow, Sadonte remains the music in our souls and we are determined to ensure that his legacy lasts as more than a tragic statistic while we positively impact one young person at a time - ultimately ending violence amongst our leaders of tomorrow.

12 years ago, on January 4th, we lost Sadonte —a young life taken too soon. Today, we remember his light and the strengt...
01/05/2025

12 years ago, on January 4th, we lost Sadonte —a young life taken too soon. Today, we remember his light and the strength of a community that refuses to let his memory fade.

In August 2024, we stood together to co-name Columbia Street & Rivington Street in his honor. This wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a powerful declaration that a bullet can take a life but never the love, resilience, and determination of those left behind.

This street now stands as a daily reminder: violence affects us all, but together, we can create a future where young lives are protected and uplifted.

To everyone who shared their voice, signature, or presence to make this happen—thank you. Sadonte’s name lives on, and so does our commitment to change.

On behalf of The Sadonte Foundation please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Rocio Duran. We are deeply...
11/03/2024

On behalf of The Sadonte Foundation please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Rocio Duran. We are deeply saddened by this loss and wish to convey our deepest sympathies to Shinel Green, family, friends and community.

Rocio was an invaluable member of our team and a shining example of commitment and kindness. Every year since 2014 Rocio showed up at our baseball and basketball community events, with a smile and cup of coffee in her hand. “Where do You need me? Put me wherever, I’m good! Her dedication made an impact on all of us, as well as on the community she served so selflessly. Our August events were always held during her birthday weekend and that didn’t matter to her. Talk about dedication and selflessness.

We are so grateful for the time we had with Rocio and her memory will live on in the work we do.

Let’s keep her daughter Shinel Green, all of Rocio’s family and friends in prayer.

The Sadonte Foundation Arlene Delgado

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New York, NY
10272

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On January 4, 2013, Raphael Sadonte Ward, a bright-eyed 16 year-old son, brother, friend, and promising athlete became a victim of gun-violence at the hands of another teenager, who more than likely lacked positive influences and exposure to diversity. In honor of Sadonte's life, we have come together to build The Sadonte Foundation - committed to: S - Stopping A - Assault D - and Destruction O - in Our N - Neighborhoods T - Today E - and Everyday The sad truth is that homicide victims and offenders have gotten younger. Teen violence/homicide is the second leading cause of death among teenagers. According to statistics obtained from the NYPD Crime and Enforcement Activity (2012), murder and non-negligent manslaughter victims are most frequently African-American (64.1%) or Hispanic (25.0%). Not surprisingly, the race/ethnicity of known murder and non-negligent manslaughter suspects mirrors the victim population with Black (55.1%) and Hispanic (30.8%) accounting for the majority of percentage. In the midst of tragedy and sorrow, Sadonte remains the music in our souls and we are determined to ensure that his legacy lasts as more than a tragic statistic while we positively impact one young person at a time - ultimately ending violence amongst our leaders of tomorrow.