About the Foundation
Remembering James Clarence Bradford
James Clarence Bradford was more than a statistic. He was a beloved son, a cherished friend, and a young man with dreams and aspirations. His life was cut short by gun violence, leaving behind a family and community devastated by loss.
James had a bright smile that could light up any room. He was passionate about helping others and had dreams of making a positive impact in his community. His kindness, humor, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew him.
While we can never bring James back, we honor his memory by working tirelessly to prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak. Every life we save, every family we support, is a testament to James’s enduring legacy.
Felissia Stroud: A Mother's Mission
The day I lost James, my world shattered. The pain was unbearable, and I questioned how I could possibly go on. But in the depths of my grief, I realized that I had a choice: I could let this tragedy define me, or I could use it to create meaningful change.
I chose to fight. I chose to ensure that James’s life would have lasting meaning. I founded the James Clarence Bradford Foundation with a clear mission: to serve as a resource hub connecting families with professional support organizations, and to raise awareness about gun violence prevention, so that fewer families would experience the heartbreak we have endured.
This work is not easy. There are days when the grief feels overwhelming, when the weight of loss threatens to pull me under. But then I think of James, of his smile, his dreams, his potential. And I remember why I do this work.
Every family we connect with the right resources, every life we touch, every community we strengthen through awareness, this is James’s legacy. This is how we transform grief into purpose, tragedy into hope, and loss into lasting change.
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
To serve as a comprehensive resource hub connecting families affected by gun violence with professional support organizations, while raising awareness through education and community engagement to prevent future tragedies.
Our Vision
A future where every family knows where to find support, communities are informed and engaged, and no parent has to bury their child due to gun violence. A world where healing resources are accessible and hope triumphs over tragedy.
Our Values
- Compassion: We lead with empathy
- Hope: We believe in healing
- Action: We create change
What We Do
Resource Connections
We maintain a comprehensive directory of trusted professional organizations in Hillsborough County that provide grief counseling, support groups, mental health services, and crisis intervention. Visit our Resources page to find the support you need.
Legal & Victim Services
We connect families with legal aid organizations, victim advocacy services, and compensation programs available in Tampa Bay. Our resource directory includes professional partners who provide free legal assistance and support for victims of violent crime.
Community Engagement
We organize community events, awareness campaigns, and advocacy initiatives that bring people together to create safer neighborhoods. Through these efforts, we connect families with local support organizations and raise awareness about available resources.
Awareness & Prevention
We raise public awareness about gun violence prevention through media campaigns, speaking engagements, and community outreach programs. Our awareness efforts help families learn about professional support resources available to them.