A Life Forever Changed
On May 20, 2012, Nariah’s father, Jasmin “Jazz” Rorie, was tragically taken from us at just 23 years old. His murder at a party sent shockwaves through our small town and quickly spread across social media.
A sudden loss is heartbreaking and deeply painful. The shock, the unanswered questions, and the emptiness it leaves behind can feel overwhelming.
After two years of adjusting to our "new normal," I felt a deep calling to turn our pain into purpose. That’s when the idea of creating a nonprofit organization was born—a space dedicated to helping children heal.
I wanted to provide a supportive community where kids who have lost a parent could connect with others who truly understand their grief. A place where they wouldn’t feel alone in their journey.
Senseless gun violence happens every day, affecting families everywhere. This foundation was created to give hope to children facing unimaginable loss, offering them the support, guidance, and resources they need to build a brighter future.
Meet Nariah Rorie
Nariah Rorie, the daughter of Tenisha and Jazz, was born on January 1, 2008. Now 17 years old, she is a 11th grader and cheerleader at Montgomery Central High School.
Nariah recently became a published author with her first children's book, Nariah’s Butterfly Kisses, which is now available on Amazon.
In her free time, she loves dancing, watching YouTube, creating TikTok videos and being with her friends.
Meet Tenisha – Founder of Nariah’s Way Foundation
Tenisha Dunlap, is the founder of Nariah’s Way Foundation. This foundation is named after her daughter, Nariah, and was established in 2014—two years after the tragic loss of her father, Jazz Rorie.
Our mission is deeply personal. We are dedicated to supporting children who have lost a parent to senseless gun violence because this isn’t just a cause—it’s my lived experience. At just 23 years old, I faced a heartbreaking reality, and as I navigated my own grief, I knew my daughter would have her own journey of loss as she grew.
Tenisha is deeply passionate about this foundation because it stems from her own lived experience. She understands firsthand the impact of loss and the importance of giving children the emotional and mental support they need to heal. Her mission is to ensure that every child affected by tragedy has the tools, resources, and community to navigate their grief and build a strong, healthy future.