In response to a letter in the St. Louis American from Delores Durley: Not only is Nelly’s last name spelled incorrectly in the letter, the statements are also. Ignorant people are pitiful. To start with, Nelly’s parents were divorced. He was raised by his mother in University City. He graduated from grade school in University City, and he graduated from University City High School. His mother graduated from the same high school. His mother was active in sports, and so was Nelly throughout his high school years. He did not struggle in the slums of St. Louis throughout his childhood and most of his teens.
This young man has given St. Louis so much, pouring thousands of dollars into his 4Sho4Kids Foundation. In every way he has helped with his generosity: educational conferences to benefit young adults, summer camp for children, along with a tutoring program to help young people achieve their potential and a trip to Washington, D.C. for children to see the nation’s capital. He was provided financial support to clinic and hospital patients with special needs. He sponsors sports activities for children and young adults. He also gives financial support to other non-profit foundations. So, I ask you Delores Durley, what do you do to help the community? How much money do you give to help children?
Some time ago, Nelly’s 4Sho4Kids Foundations gave over 200 new bicycles to the children at the Bel Nor Elementary School. Needless to say, the children who had worked hard to maintain a good attendance record and good grades were rewarded with a new bicycle, and they were happy. Their parents were grateful. Nelly signed autographs and many pictures were taken. He is always courteous and respectful to everyone. I do not believe anyone who says otherwise. So, I must emphatically call the statements made in the letter lies.
Sincerely,
Maarian Howard