For a child lost, a gift is given.
The Jaxson William Augustus Swank (JWAS) Foundation was born from a promise. Following the loss of their son, Jaxson, Sherry and Larry Swank committed to turning their grief into a legacy of opportunity. What began as a personal tribute has evolved into a dedicated mission to uplift children and families through life-shaping support.
Since day one, providing financial aid to a select number of Jaxson Scholars beginning in preschool all the way through higher education has been the core mission of the JWAS Foundation. But it didn’t take long for Sherry and Larry to realize their students had needs far beyond finances.
In 2015, JWAS hired its first part-time staff member to manage the Jaxson Scholarship application process and coordinate programs that complemented its educational mission. Programming began on a small scale, with a few annual gatherings designed to celebrate and support JWAS families. As the JWAS team expanded in 2019 under the leadership of Jeanie Shuck, the organization developed and delivered more comprehensive leadership programming, offering ten initiatives throughout the year. In 2023, JWAS formalized its signature “Trilogy of Care” approach: caring for the Jaxson Scholar, caring for the JWAS parent, and caring for the entire JWAS family. Through this holistic model, JWAS seeks to strengthen the family unit as a whole and empower each individual to become the best version of themselves.
Supporting the Whole Family
While JWAS began by providing scholarships from preschool through higher education, Sherry and Larry soon realized that financial aid was only the beginning. To truly thrive, students needed more.
In 2023, the Foundation established its signature Trilogy of Care model. This holistic approach ensures we are:
- Caring for the Scholar: Supporting academic and personal growth.
- Caring for the Parent: Providing the tools and community parents need to lead.
- Caring for the Family: Lifting the entire home to help every member reach their full potential.
Core Values
The JWAS Foundation is built on a clear set of values that shape how it supports every Jaxson Scholar and JWAS family it serves, including:
Character
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.
Together, these values have shaped not only the JWAS’ work but the lasting legacy Sherry and Larry have created in honor of their son Jaxson.
Joining the JWAS Family
Today, the JWAS Foundation continues to be led by Sherry and Larry Swank, alongside a devoted board of trustees and leadership team who carry forward Jaxson’s legacy with intention and care. Together, they support a nonprofit and a values-driven community.
For those looking to make a difference, JWAS provides a powerful way to be part of something bigger. Whether as a partner, supporter, or participant, working with JWAS means contributing to a mission with an impact that extends far beyond today.