Mondrell Smallwood Memorial

My Little Brother, Mondrell Smallwood, was killed early Monday by yet another act of senseless gun violence in Kansas City.

There is almost no news coverage of his killing, because it happens way too often to young men like Mondrell. He was a loving, kind and gentle father to Raquel and Mondrell Jr. He was engaged to be married to their mother, Andrea. He loved the Royals and the Chiefs. He was my friend, and I loved him. He was only 33 years old.

Mondrell and I were matched through Big Brothers Big Sisters when he was 12. We stayed matched for several years when he was a teen, lost touch when I moved from KC, and then reconnected four years ago. Despite the years apart, we maintained an incredibly strong bond.

His family needs assistance with funeral expenses. I've started a GoFundMe if anyone would like to contribute. My family will also be establishing a Trust to assist with health and education expenses for his two children. Any funds collected here in excess of the funeral costs will be contributed directly to their Trust.

On behalf of Mondrell's family and his two children, we are grateful for your support.