The city of Pineville was flooded with runners and walkers on Saturday, all of whom were eager to do their part in making sure one exceptional young man’s kindness and integrity continues to live on, even after his death.

Earlier this year, Bell County football star and friend to all, Blake Jackson, 17, was involved in a tragic car accident which horrifically cost him his life at such a tender age.

Since then, both his family and friends have strived to come up with the best method of honoring their late friend. Soon, Jackson’s parents, David and Debbie Jackson, teamed up with his former Athletic Trainer, Bobby Partin, and came up with the idea of creating a scholarship in Blake’s name, thus birthed the Blake Jackson Scholarship. This provided a way to not only honor Jackson, but also to allow him to continue doing what he loved best: positively affecting others.

“Blake was a selfless person who always put others above himself. I never heard him say a negative word about anyone,” said Partin. “His character was simply unmatched, and I believe this scholarship is something he would have loved.”

A 7.2k was held in Pineville over the weekend in order to raise money for the scholarship, as everyone in the community was encouraged to participate in the friendly run (or walk). With over 150 people showing up in support of the cause, the event was a clear success and raised close to $2,000.

Several local businesses made donations for the 7.2k as well, including: Long’s Pic Pac, Long’s One and Up, Champion Physical Therapy, Joe’s Tool Company and the Arnette and Steele Funeral Home. Along with these, the Jackson family’s church, Whipple Baptist Church, also made a rather large contribution.

“David and I would just like to thank everyone, including Celena and Bobby Parton for helping us honor Blake. We truly appreciate everyone who has taken part; we never could have done this without each of you,” said Debbie. “We feel that giving back to the community is exactly what Blake would have wanted us to do. This scholarship allows us to continue his legacy.”

Combining the race, donations and T-shirt sales, the scholarship has managed to raise an impressive ten thousand dollars so far, with more fundraisers planned for the upcoming athletic seasons.

The application process for the scholarship will begin for Bell County students after Christmas break, and will be based on all of the usual criteria (grades, extracurricular activities and so on), but this one will also take into consideration the applicant’s character and attitude towards others.

Partin hopes to give out two scholarships during Bell County’s award ceremony in April, and to continue giving at least one out to a deserving student each year for many years to come.

“I really appreciate everyone who has been a part of the process so far. The way the community has stepped up has astonished me,” said Partin. “I would like to ask for more help from others with the ability to do so. There are so many great people in the community and I want to challenge them to help with this cause. Every penny goes towards a student’s education.”