2023 Yearbook

2023
From the Love of One
to the H eart of Many.
A JWAS ANNUAL YEARBOOK

Dear Friends,
2023 marks the 20th anniversary of our
baby boy Jaxson’s passing. Although
so much time has passed, we remember
it like it was just yesterday as we
hold just as much love for him in our
hearts as we did on December 8, 2003.
We think of Jaxson every day and
continue to try to create a better world
in honor of him. As you comb through
the following pages, we hope you
feel the impact of your support for
our mission. This year, we established
our Trilogy of Care, inaugurated our
Joy for Jaxson initiative, and kicked off our first season of Jaxson University. We had twenty
Jaxson Scholars attend eight partnering schools from preschool to a freshman in college. The
abundance of what we have accomplished is exciting!
As we hosted our 9th annual Wine Dinner in June, we were once again overwhelmed by the
outpouring of support from so many. For a third year in a row, we raised well over $1 million in
one night. We continue to be humbled by your generosity and care for what we do. Because
of the outpouring and abundant support, we are delighted to announce we will serve twentythree
Jaxson Scholars for the upcoming school year!
Thank you for being a part of our hearts and purpose. Thank you for believing in those we
serve. And thank you for being a part of our JWAS family. We appreciate you so much!
Love and Blessings,
Sherry & Larry Swank
Co-Founders
“Working with the Swanks and their extended JWAS family is one of the most
meaningful partnerships we’ve experienced at Navarre Hospitality Group. Beyond
the profoundly deep impact of their mission, Sherry, Larry, Jeanie, and the entire JWAS
team treat us not only as valued partners but as family. It’s a feeling that is palpable
in every interaction. Whether sharing stories of the Jaxson Scholars, planning the
annual gala, or reaching out to express thanks, their genuine engagement makes us
feel valued, both personally and professionally. We are humbled and grateful to be
part of such a powerful mission.”
-Kurt Janowsky, Navarre Hospitality Group
2

Jaxson Scholars
Jolie
College Freshman
Age: 19 years old
Favorite Meal: Chicken Tenders & Fries
Hobbies: Knitting & Crochet
Leadership Camp Award: Most Patient
Dream Job: Nurse
Jaxson Scholar since 2008
Marilynn
Senior
Age: 17 years old
Favorite Meal: Chicken Tenders
Hobbies: Jewelry Making
Leadership Camp Award: Most Growth
Dream Job: Veterinarian
Jaxson Scholar since 2008
Rihanna
Sophomore
Age: 16 years old
Favorite Meal: The JWAS Pasta Recipe
Hobbies: Crochet
Leadership Camp Award:
Most Respectful
Dream Job: Psychologist
Jaxson Scholar since 2016
Freddy
7th Grade
Age: 13 years old
Favorite Meal: Steak, Potatoes,
& Green Beans
Hobbies: Baseball & Gaming
Leadership Camp Award: Most Inclusive
Dream Job: MLB Baseball Player
Jaxson Scholar since 2019
Kiara
7th Grade
Age: 12 years old
Favorite Meal: Alfredo Pasta
Hobbies: Playing the Clarinet
Leadership Camp Award: Most Outgoing
Dream Job: Someone Who Does
Math & Science
Jaxson Scholar since 2017
Aline
6th Grade
Age: 12 years old
Favorite Meal: Fettucine Alfredo
Hobbies: Coloring
Leadership Camp Award:
Best Story Teller
Dream Job: Teacher
Jaxson Scholar since 2017
Savino
5th Grade
Age: 11 years old
Favorite Meal: Cheeseburgers
Hobbies: Soccer & Running
Leadership Camp Award: Most Comical
Dream Job: Astronaut or Soccer Player
Jaxson Scholar since 2018
Savannah
4th Grade
Age: 10 years old
Favorite Meal: Chinese Food
Hobbies: Arts & Crafts
Leadership Camp Award: Most Creative
Dream Job: Veterinarian
Jaxson Scholar since 2016
3

Jaxson Scholars
Santiago
4th Grade
Age: 10 years old
Favorite Meal: Mom’s Tacos
Hobbies: Playing Roblox
Leadership Camp Award:
Most Calm & Cool
Dream Job: Painter
Jaxson Scholar since 2018
Layla
4th Grade
Age: 9 years old
Favorite Meal: Pasta
Hobbies: Playing Piano, Singing, & Crafts
Leadership Camp Award: Most Energetic
Dream Job: Veterinarian
Jaxson Scholar since 2019
Branton
3rd Grade
Age: 9 years old
Favorite Meal: Shrimp & Rice
Hobbies: Football & Baseball
Leadership Camp Award: Best Manners
Dream Job: Entrepreneur or NFL Player
Jaxson Scholar since 2018
Finleigh
3rd Grade
Age: 8 years old
Favorite Meal: Costco Cheese Pizza
Hobbies: Swimming & Soccer
Leadership Camp Award: Best Hugger
Dream Job: Doctor
Jaxson Scholar since 2020
Alani
3rd Grade
Age: 10 years old
Favorite Meal: Tacos
Hobbies: Coloring & Drawing
Leadership Camp Award: Most Helpful
Dream Job: Chef
Jaxson Scholar since 2017
Masai
3rd Grade
Age: 8 years old
Favorite Meal: Steak & Mac-n-Cheese
Hobbies: Basketball, Football, & Soccer
Leadership Camp Award: Most
Sharing & Caring
Dream Job: Engineer
Jaxson Scholar since 2020
Autumn
2nd Grade
Age: 8 years old
Favorite Meal: Spaghetti
Hobbies: Playing Outside, Singing, & Drawing
Leadership Camp Award:
Happiest Camper
Dream Job: Veterinarian
Jaxson Scholar since 2021
Melani
1st Grade
Age: 7 years old
Favorite Meal: Pizza
Hobbies: Go on Adventures & Make Crafts
Leadership Camp Award: Best Big Sister
Dream Job: Police Officer
Jaxson Scholar since 2022
4

Jaxson Scholars
Lorelei
Kindergarten
Age: 5 years old
Favorite Meal: Pizza
Hobbies: Science, Hiking, Art, & Learning
Leadership Camp Award: Best Laugh
Dream Job: Nurse
Jaxson Scholar since 2023
Ember
Kindergarten
Age: 6 years old
Favorite Meal: Fried Chicken
Hobbies: Dancing & Playing School
Leadership Camp Award: Best
Leader in Training
Dream Job: Nurse & Doctor
Jaxson Scholar since 2021
Brooklyn
PreK
Age: 4 years old
Favorite Meal: Oranges & Chicken Nuggets
Hobbies: Dance, Ballet, & Singing
Leadership Camp Award:
Most Determined
Dream Job: Performer on “America’s Got Talent”
Jaxson Scholar since 2022
Mia
Preschool
Age: 3 years old
Favorite Meal: Fries & Chicken
Hobbies: Paint & Playdoh
Leadership Camp Award: Most Brave
Dream Job: Firefighter
Jaxson Scholar since 2023
Emma
PreK
Age: 5 years old
Favorite Meal: Spaghetti & Pumpkin Pie
Hobbies: Baton Twirling, Gymnastics,
Art, & Dancing
Dream Job: Artist
Jaxson Scholar starting in 2024
Mathew
Preschool
Age: 2.5 years old
Favorite Meal: Pizza & French Fries
Hobbies: Dinosaurs & Hot Wheels
Dream Job: Firefighter or Policeman
Jaxson Scholar starting in 2024
Augustus
Preschool
Age: 3 years old
Favorite Meal: Rice & Spaghetti
Hobbies: Playing with His Big Brother
Dream Job: Not sure yet!
Jaxson Scholar starting in 2024
5

A JWAS Year in Review
2023 was the 5th anniversary of integrating leadership programming into our mission. In that time, we have witnessed
tremendous growth in the confidence and strength of our Jaxson Scholars and the positive impact our JWAS families
have on the Michiana community. Through their commitment to attending our annual programs, we have collectively built
a comradeship that holistically supports one another.
Trilogy of Care
As we continue to enrich and expand the care we provide for those we serve,
we are delighted to share our Trilogy of Care approach for our leadership
programs. The three “hearts” represent caring for the Jaxson Scholar, caring
for the JWAS parent, and caring for the family. Through this approach, we can
tend to the hearts, minds, and spirits of all members of our JWAS families,
allowing us to lift the entire family unit and help each of them become the best
version of themselves. Our Trilogy of Care allows our families to reach their
full potential, allowing each Jaxson Scholar to dream bigger and aim higher!
Trilogy of Care
GOALS & INTENTIONS FOR JWAS FOUNDATION’S
ANNUAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAMMING
• To build confidence, connection, and leadership skills in our Jaxson Scholars and JWAS families
January with Jaxson Family Retreat
• Be intentional in hosting an annual event to celebrate
Jaxson’s birthday
• Foster and build relationships amongst the Jaxson
Scholars, JWAS parents, and the Board of Trustees
• Offer an opportunity for individuals to reflect on the
past year and set personal goals
• Create family vision boards to guide their goals for 2023
Recap:
Each January, our JWAS families come together for our
January with Jaxson Family Retreat. We celebrated the
JWAS community and what would have been Jaxson’s 21st
birthday. Through team-building activities, personal goalsetting,
and creating 2023 family vision boards, we planted
the seeds for individual and family growth that will be
nurtured throughout the year. Listening to each family share their goals and intentions for the upcoming year helps us hold
each other accountable and allows us to support one another when we need it most. We are proud to witness the power
of setting goals in a safe and supportive environment where we meet everyone precisely where they are.
There was no shortage of laughter and joy as we welcomed the 2023 Jaxson Scholars, Mia and Sunny, and their families.
When we asked the families to create a word that symbolizes their feelings towards JWAS, “Joy,” “Legacy,” “Family,” and
“Home” came to mind. Starting our year together at this retreat warms our hearts and propels us into feeling confident
and ready for the year ahead.
6

Art Expressions
• Practice expressing emotions through art
• Learn and build social-emotional skills in a creative way
• Build trusting relationships amongst the Jaxon Scholars
Recap:
This year, we hosted our first Art Expressions program. We
focused on cultivating self-awareness by using art to express
our feelings and emotions. Our Jaxson Scholars learned
about social and emotional self-awareness and created
watercolor paintings as a form
of self-expression. They also
designed comic books centered
around their own “emotional
superhero,” selecting an emotion that shared the same first letter as their name and crafting
a story. Some of the superheroes created were “Brave Branton,” “Marvelous Mia,” “Funny
Freddy,” and “Sad Savannah” – who focused on helping others who were feeling sad! The
Jaxson Scholars had a fantastic day together and left with beaming smiles as they proudly
shared their creations with their parents.
Manners I & II Etiquette Classes
• To learn how to properly set a dining table for any meal
• To instill the importance of excellent manners during dining
and social experiences
• To understand and practice healthy conversational skills
• To develop and cultivate leadership skills in our
Jaxson Scholars
• To learn the importance and proper way of writing a
thank you letter
Manners I Recap:
It can be easiest to learn a life skill when you are young because you have your entire life to practice, perfect, and benefit
from it. These are just a few reasons we start teaching manners and etiquette to our youngest Jaxson Scholars. Our
Manners I program targets Jaxson Scholars up to 9 years of age. It highlights the practice of using “magic words,” proper
handshakes, and the importance of having consideration for others. We were delighted to have some of our oldest Jaxson
Scholars, Marilynn, and Rihanna, join us in a leadership role this year. This annual program allows the foundation to instill
fundamental character values in those we serve.
Manners II Recap:
Once our Jaxson Scholars turn ten years old, they graduate into the Manners
II program. This year’s curriculum included the importance of first impressions,
table manners, conversational etiquette, and the art of writing a thank-you letter.
Each Jaxson Scholar took a turn leading a conversation at their dining table,
following the format of asking open-ended questions. We were delighted to
have two additional Jaxson Scholars, Santiago and Savino, join us this year as
they aged into the program. Witnessing the oldest Jaxson Scholars provide
gentle guidance to the newest additions to the class was heart-warming and
made us incredibly proud. The self-confidence and overall life skills our manners
and etiquette programs teach the Jaxson Scholars year after year are true testaments to the life skills we aim to instill.
7

Parent’s Night Out Etiquette Dinner
• To develop and enhance the social
relationships amongst our JWAS parents
• To build our JWAS parents’ self-confidence
in social and professional situations
Recap:
Conversation and connection guided our
Parent’s Night Out curriculum at Ruth’s Chris
Steakhouse this year. JWAS parents and
guardians joined with Board of Trustee members
to share an unforgettable meal and build
community. The evening began with a group
game of “Conversation Bingo,” which quickly brought joy and smiles while
creating a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Family updates soon followed
as each family took turns sharing their triumphs and challenges over the last year.
Hearing the parents speak and share from their hearts was the most beautiful
part of the evening. To cultivate gratitude for the everyday gifts that come our
way, each family received a box of note cards to use as they were encouraged to
write letters of appreciation to those who have touched their lives. This annual
signature program has become one of our JWAS parents’ favorites.
High School Leadership Retreat
• To build healthy and authentic relationships amongst the
Jaxson Scholars
• To empower our Jaxson Scholars to own their leadership
skills and talents
• To build self-confidence and a sense of community
Recap:
Hosted on the beautiful campus of Saint Mary’s College, our high
school-age Jaxson Scholars gathered for our 2nd annual retreat to
spend time devoted to focusing on moving their minds, moving
their hearts, and moving their bodies. This year, we created SMART
(Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Bound) goals,
discussed what we want more and less of in our lives, how to create
those new realities, and shared life experiences that have taught us valuable lessons. While learning about the positive
impact of journaling, we concluded with a mindful art meditation and writing letters of encouragement to our future
selves. This intentional time spent together was better than anyone could have imagined. Witnessing our Jaxson Scholars
grow over the years in this capacity is a gift like no other.
“If there is one word that best describes JWAS, it’s BLESSING. JWAS has blessed and has continued
to bless my daughters with a phenomenal education; equal to that is the blessing we receive from
being in this community. We are better people because of JWAS. To all the supporters of JWAS,
thank you for your generosity – your generosity is changing lives. I know it’s changed ours.”
8
-Jody Healey, JWAS Parent

South Bend Cubs Game Family Outing
• To foster and build relationships amongst
the Jaxson Scholars, JWAS parents, and
Board of Trustees
With hosting our first baseball game in 2016, this
fun-filled family event is the foundation’s longestrunning
program. We were delighted to kick off the
summer with a night filled with our favorite friends,
fried chicken, delicious ice cream, and baseball!
Before the start of the South Bend Cubs game, the
Jaxson Scholars were invited onto the field as the game announcer
shared the story behind our mission and the extraordinary legacy
Jaxson leaves behind in our community. The team mascot, Swoop,
visited us to pass out bouncy house wristbands and high-five the
Jaxson Scholars. The opportunity to build friendships and enjoy
each other on a delightful summer evening strengthened our evergrowing
JWAS community!
Jaxson University
Jaxson University was founded this year to provide
more profound educational opportunities for our JWAS
parents. We kicked off the first annual program with
a finance curriculum, "Charting a Course for Financial
Success," in January. The inaugural module targeted
topics such as personal budgeting, buying a home,
saving for retirement, insurance,
and overall steps to take to
experience personal financial
freedom. Five sessions, each
covering specialized topics, were
provided by various industry
experts who volunteered their
time and talents from January through May. In total, nine of our thirteen JWAS families and our
oldest Jaxson Scholars participated. We are thrilled about the program's positive impact on our
families in its first year!
“Our Highland family has known the Swank family for decades and has witnessed their
professionalism and commitment to building lasting relationships firsthand. Those relationships
led us to follow the JWAS Foundation's development in memory of Larry and Shery's son. Because
of that experience, we knew that the Foundation would grow into a first-class organization
committed to supporting the development of students and their families. Even though we are in
Birmingham, Alabama, and hundreds of miles from South Bend, Indiana, we are proud to be
supporters of JWAS!"
- Susan Moore Hall and the Highland Commercial Mortgage Team
9

Leadership Day Camp
• To offer an outdoor, experiential, multi-day
leadership program
• To cultivate and develop leadership skills in the
Jaxson Scholars
• To enhance the leadership and mentoring skills
of our oldest Jaxson Scholars
• To expand the relationships and friendships
amongst the Jaxson Scholars through teambuilding
activities
Recap:
Summer is undoubtedly the favorite season at
JWAS, not because of the gorgeous weather,
but because of Leadership Camp! This year's
experiential leadership theme focused on the
importance of personal well-being. Daily leadership
lessons included emotional awareness, mindfulness
& meditation, personal coping skills, yoga, and the
importance of family. Junior Leaders stepped into
even more "hands-on" roles this year as they cofacilitated
the daily leadership lessons and led the
hikes, fishing adventures, water games, and teambuilding
activities. The Junior Leaders are incredibly
dedicated volunteers and Jaxson Scholars who age into this leadership role when they become sixteen. It is a rewarding
process that allows our youngest scholars to see our oldest scholars as role models and mentors. This year, Jaxson Scholars
Jolie and Marilynn participated in this capacity. Our tradition of Family Friday wrapped up the week while JWAS parents,
siblings, grandparents, and our Board of Trustees joined us for skits, outdoor games, fellowship, and old-fashioned fun
on the farm! We are so grateful to our gracious hosts, John Leinweber and Jim Laughlin, of Firefly Farm, Laporte, IN, for
sharing their magical property with the foundation each summer. It is an experience like no other that has created longlasting,
deep bonds and offers a safe space for everyone to learn and grow together year after year.
10

Family Hike
• To create an outdoor family experience that
fosters physical activity, community, and
connection among the JWAS families
Recap
This August, our JWAS families
gathered at Potato Creek
State Park for our end-of-summer
outdoor experiential adventure.
It was the ideal backdrop,
offering beautiful hiking
trails, a playground to explore, and ample space for playing a game of "Camouflage." Jaxson Scholar
Lorelei and her parents led the way on the trails as they are avid hikers who visit the park regularly.
We had a wonderful time connecting, sharing back-to-school stories, and spending time in nature.
It was a wonderful way to reconnect at the beginning of the school year.
Women’s Leadership Retreat
• To offer a nurturing experience that fosters trust,
communication, connection, and support amongst
the women of JWAS
Recap:
JWAS women gathered on a beautiful fall day in November
to focus on self-care, emotional awareness,
personal goal setting, and embracing the beautiful
outdoors. We enjoyed participating in team-building
games, navigating deep
conversations around
personal problem-solving,
and creating plans to take intentional steps to achieve long-term goals. We were delighted
about the organic fruition of building meaningful connections and memories. An
exceptional treat of the program was that Jolie joined us for her first adult leadership program
as a college-age Jaxson Scholar. This fantastic afternoon, powered by the spirit of
Jaxson, was another reminder that our JWAS women are pillars of strength and love for
themselves, each other, and our community. We look forward to this time together and
leave with a feeling of gratitude for the foundation bringing us together.
“For the 5th year in a row, JWAS camp has been the highlight of my year. I love being part of the
JWAS community and continue to be inspired by Jaxson’s legacy and all of the good that JWAS
has done in his name. I have had the honor of watching a lot of these kids grow up over the last
few years, and it has been a pleasure to get to know them and see the positive impact they have
already had on the world! JWAS and its community represent all that is good in our world, and
I am fortunate to be a part of that community. Thank you, JWAS, for all you do. I can’t wait for
camp in 2024!”
-Matthew Shuck, 5-year Lead Volunteer
11

JWAS Commitment to Service
• To instill the values of service and gratitude in our
JWAS families
Recap:
Part of being a Jaxson Scholar and a JWAS family
involves developing the spirit of service from within.
As part of their commitment to the foundation, each
JWAS family annually agrees to give back to the
community through service. Collectively, our JWAS
families volunteered 1009 hours in 2023! They gave
back to our community in many ways, including but not
limited to school and classroom support, art education,
coaching, nonprofit service, and volunteer support at
church. The foundation provided several coordinated
service opportunities throughout the year. However,
our amazing families went above and beyond to find
(or create) service opportunities independent of the
foundation to donate their time and talents.
Holiday Gathering
• To celebrate the holiday season with our JWAS
families and the Board of Trustees
Recap:
The holidays provide us with so much to be grateful
for – our outstanding Jaxson Scholars, JWAS families,
Board of Trustees, and the community support of the
Sterling Group. Our annual holiday party was held
at one of our favorite community spots, Strikes and
Spares, in Mishawaka, IN. Together, we played arcade
games, traversed through obstacle courses, raced gokarts,
and joined to celebrate another blessed year
we had together. We welcomed three new Jaxson
Scholars into the JWAS family for the coming year,
and Sherry delightfully introduced our Joy for Jaxson
initiative. Our program ended with a very special visit
from Santa and the beautiful elves from the Sterling
Group to share gifts with our Jaxson Scholars. We love
this year-end tradition that reminds us of our gratitude
for Jaxson and his lasting legacy that continues to
shine brighter each year.
“JWAS makes me feel like I can give back to the community and help others. I love seeing Jaxson
Scholars everywhere. I enjoy passing them in the hallway at school and seeing their smiles. JWAS
really has a special place in my heart.”
12
-Taylor Swank, Jaxson’s Niece

Summer Reading Challenge
• To incentivize Jaxson Scholars to engage with
reading and literacy over the summer
Recap:
Our Jaxson Scholars kept their literacy flame glowing
this summer by participating in our 2nd annual Summer
Reading Challenge. Cumulatively, they read over
136 books and read for 7,095 minutes! Those who
participated received a special certificate and a gift card
to a local bookstore. We admire the Jaxson Scholars’
passion for reading – and are proud as they continue to
set and accomplish their reading goals.
Joy for Jaxson
December 8, 2023, was the 20th anniversary of Jaxson’s passing. On
this important day, we marked the inauguration of our Joy for Jaxson
initiative. Through challenging the community to give back, to make
someone’s day, or to make someone smile by performing a random act
of kindness in honor of Jaxson, we hope to spread Jaxson’s light and
expand his legacy. JWAS parents and
supporters took it upon themselves to
deliver sweet treats to their co-workers
or their child’s teachers; some made
holiday cards for the elderly and sick,
and others paid for the order behind
them at the drive-thru. Some delivered
goodies to ballerinas performing in
the Nutcracker, their friends at school,
neighbors, or their local fire station and
police station. One supporter reached
out to tell us he shared the card with a dear friend who had recently
lost her child, hoping to give her some peace during a challenging
time. The response was tremendous as we witnessed many share their
good deeds on social media and pass out our Joy for Jaxson cards
throughout their community. Each deed matters and creates a ripple
impact of spreading kindness and goodness in honor of Jaxson. We
cannot wait to expand this initiative in the years ahead!
"As a teacher for over two decades, I have had the pleasure of teaching hundreds of students.
During the last five years, I have had the opportunity to have several Jaxson Scholars in my
kindergarten class, and they are some of the very best! I have yet to meet a Jaxson Scholar who
isn't eager and ready to learn with a family willing to put in the hard work right behind them. The
JWAS Foundation truly is a gift to the families it serves. I am beyond thankful to have a small role
in the important work they do every single day."
13
-Elizabeth Barber, Jaxson Scholar Teacher

20 Years Later
2023 was the 20th anniversary of Jaxson's passing. On the
night of the tragedy, Retired Sgt. Bill Kraus was one of the
first to arrive after the accident. We will always be grateful
for Bill's love and support and the firefighters and police
officers who helped the Swanks that night. As he vividly
recalls walking up the driveway to assist the family, he
reflects on the last twenty years.
"It is unbelievable that the Swank family has
turned such a tragic situation into something
that has brought so much joy, meaning, and
purpose to so many in our community. They
are an inspiration to us all."
-Retired Sgt. Bill Kraus
Jaxson Scholar Artwork
“I remember the moments
when I was
trying to draw Jaxson’s
features with
my mom. I asked
her what would you
feel if I died? She
said she would feel
pain, sadness, emptiness,
and madness. When I think of Jaxson,
I feel sadness but, at the same time, immense
gratitude. God chose him and his family as
instruments to change and bless many lives,
including mine. Thank you, Swank family,
for your strength and courage to get up and
learn to live with your pain and share the love
you feel for Jaxson with all of us.”
– Jaxson Scholar Kiara, Co-artist of the drawing
of Jaxson alongside her mother, Evelin
14

We Appreciate Our School Partners!
Sterling Group’s Charity of Choice
The Sterling Group in Mishawaka, IN, continued supporting our mission
heartwarmingly this year. It was the 3rd year the Jaxson Scholars were invited
to their annual Halloween party, which included haunted hallways, trick-ortreat
stations, and a pizza dinner. It was also the 5th year Sterling sponsored
our Jaxson Scholars through their "Jaxsi Gifts" initiative. Sterling colleagues
sponsor and purchase four gifts for each child: something they want, something
they need, something they wear, and something they read. Santa and his elves
from Sterling deliver the presents during our annual holiday party. Our Jaxson
Scholars look forward to this experience each year; it brings us so much joy!
We are grateful for Sterling and their growing impact on our Jaxson Scholars
year after year.
“JWAS has an extra special place in our hearts. We have been blessed to be a part of the Swank
and Sterling family for more than 30 years. When Larry and Sherry created JWAS, we, without
hesitation, wanted to be a part of the blessings of educating a child. We are excited to see the
evolution of what this is doing for the children and their families. Thank you for allowing us to be
a part of your life.”
15
– Anita & John VanMeeter, Sterling Team Colleagues

Donor Support
260 donors from 22 states invested in JWAS in 2022!
Financial Overview
All foundation administrative expenses are underwritten by the Swank family.
100% of donations are utilized for the education of our current and future Jaxson Scholars.
100%
Educational
Services
Fundraising
Endowment
Educational Need
8.0
7.0
6.0
in millions
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
16

JWAS SERVICES IN 2023
JWAS FAMILIES
VOLUNTEERED
1009
HOURS IN 2023
JWAS PROVIDED
440
HOURS OF
TUTORING SERVICES
JWAS TEAM
ATTENDED
48
CONFERENCES WITH
TEACHERS & TUTORS
JWAS OFFERED
87
HOURS OF
LEADERSHIP
PROGRAMS
38
VOLUNTEERS
HELPED US REACH
OUR GOALS IN 2023!
74
NEW DONORS
IN 2023!
JWAS
DONOR
FACTS
17
479
DONORS SUPPORTED
JWAS OVER THE
LAST 3 YEARS

Fundraising Efforts
9th Annual Wine Dinner with HALL Wines
On June 9, we hosted our 9th annual
Wine Dinner at the History Museum
of South Bend, IN. While tasting the
phenomenal wines with Kathryn Hall
of HALL Wines, it was another soldout
event with supporters from across
the country. Through their generosity,
we raised over $1.2 million for the
educational scholarships, services,
and programs we provide our Jaxson
Scholars and their families. The
night was incredibly humbling as we
continue to surpass our fundraising
goals, allowing us to dream bigger at
JWAS and expand our mission.
The continued success of this annual
event helps us strategically plan for
the long-term sustainability of our
mission. Thank you to the countless
volunteers, our fantastic community
partners and vendors, and everyone
behind the scenes that makes this
classy, inspiring, and magical tribute
to Jaxson come to life each year!
“I was truly moved hearing Jaxson’s story many years ago from
Larry and Sherry. I was honored to be invited to join this event
and share our wines with such wonderful guests. My hope is
that the shared enjoyment of our wines helps foster awareness
for this remarkable cause. The annual Wine Dinner creates
meaningful memories for everyone who attends. Thank you to
Larry and Sherry for creating an opportunity for us all to help,
whether through contributing financially, volunteering time, or
simply sharing the inspiration of JWAS.”
- Ambassador Kathryn Hall, HALL Napa Valley
Thank You to Our Vintner Partnerships in Napa Valley!
2011 - John Caldwell, Caldwell Vineyard & Winery 2020 - Todd Newman, Dakota Shy (virtual)
2013 - Juelle Fisher, Fisher Vineyards
2021 - Terry & Nancy Klein, Allora Vineyards (virtual)
2016 - Nicole & Ryan Hill, Hill Family Estate
2021 - Samantha & Patrice Breton, Vice Versa Wines
2017 - Laura Long & David Long, David Arthur Vineyards 2022 - Rob Fisher, Fisher Vineyards
2018 - Dr. Madaiah, Revana Estate Vineyard
2023 - Kathryn Hall, HALL Wines
2019 - Steve Reynolds, Reynolds Family Winery
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JWAS Board of Trustees
From left to right: Larry Swank II, Kristin Swank, Tiffani Swank, Co-Founder Sherry Swank, Co-Founder Larry Swank, Danette Swank, Josh
Swank, Brenda Swank, Lance Swank
Letter from our Executive Director
Dear JWAS Family,
As I reflect on 2023, I am amazed by the
transformative growth that has taken place at
JWAS. The impact of our programming, created
and led by our talented team, is more profound
than ever. Our programs and services continue to
expand through our Trilogy of Care, and we have
had more supporters than ever before volunteer
their time and talents to help us fulfill our mission.
And because of your unwavering support, we will
be welcoming three Jaxson Scholars for the first
time in one year in 2024!
Because of you, we can dream and expand our
vision for the future. Our team is inspired daily by
your generosity and the legacy of a little boy who
has profoundly impacted our lives. Thank you for
believing in us so deeply. I have no doubt the best
is yet to come!
Gratefully,
Jeanie Shuck
Executive Director
The Shuck family enjoyed Family Fun Day at Leadership Camp.
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Strategic Vision:
The JWAS Foundation provides financial support, customized
programming, and services to ensure the success of our Jaxson Scholars
and their families from preschool through four years of university. We
inspire others by sharing Jaxson’s story, we treat our Jaxson Scholars like
our very own, and we bring Jaxson’s love and light with us and all that we
do as a foundation. By investing in our Jaxson Scholars’ education and
their social and emotional development, we motivate them to reach their
full potential and become forces of good in the community.
Mission:
The mission of the Jaxson William Augustus Swank Foundation is to
perpetuate Jaxson’s loving memory in providing financial assistance to
deserving individuals from preschool through college and to support
each recipient in achieving their potential to obtain scholastic distinction
while developing good moral character as future leaders.
Character
Values:
We cultivate honest and deep relationships. We lead with integrity.
Education
We continually create opportunities for growth, transformation, and
positive change.
Leadership
We practice authentic leadership which is embedded in what we teach
and who we are.
Faith
Our faith guides us. A greater power opens doors and opportunities for
us beyond our abilities.
F or a child lost, a gift is given.
JWAS Foundation, 3900 Edison Lakes Parkway, Suite 201
Mishawaka, IN 46545
www.jwas.org