Empowering Futures,

Honoring a Legacy

Inspired by Daemond's spirit, 21 TAJ is dedicated to supporting students, grieving parents, and creating a brighter future for underserved communities who have been affected by gun violence.

Started by his village, 21 TAJ was created to honor the memory of Daemond Taj Russell, a young man whose light and love left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Due to a senseless act of violence Daemond Taj was taken away from his family in August of 2023. This organization was named after his middle name and the age he was looking forward to turning, 21 TAJ is a testament to his spirit of love, resilience, passion.

Our organization is dedicated to carrying forward his legacy by providing hope and support to those in need who have been affected by gun violence. We focus on three core initiatives: awarding scholarships to deserving college freshmen, providing financial assistance to grieving parents, and creating comprehensive college care packages for underserved students. Through these programs, we aim to uplift our community, foster new opportunities, and inspire positive change—just as Daemond would have wanted.

Our Initiatives

  • The Daemond Taj Russell Excellence Award

    Celebrating students excelling in academics, leadership, or entrepreneurship.

  • Parent's Strength Fund

    Providing financial relief to grieving parents, offering space to heal.

  • Campus Life Ready Package

    Supplying dorm essentials to underserved students starting their college journey.

Learn More

Be the Change. honor a Legacy.

Your generosity powers the heart of 21 TAJ. With your help, we can provide awards to future leaders, offer financial relief to grieving parents, and supply college care packages to students in need. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a lasting impact and honors Daemond’s legacy of kindness, resilience.

Explore the Legacy

The Legacy Tee features Daemond’s original design of an astronaut boy in space. With every purchase of every tee, you carry his legacy forward. All proceeds directly support 21 TAJ’s mission, funding awards, care packages, and relief for grieving parents.