When my son Jordyn Lee-Anthony Waller passed away from childhood cancer at just four years old, my world changed forever.

There is no way to fully explain the pain of losing a child.

Every year on the anniversary of his passing, I find myself wondering who he would have become — a doctor, a lawyer, an engineer, a plumber, or maybe even a community advocate like his dad.

Jordyn was innocent. Courageous. Full of life.

And although his life was short, I want his legacy to be long.

So this year, instead of only remembering his passing, I decided to honor his life by creating opportunity for others.

Through Clear Tomorrow KC, we are launching the:

Jordyn L. Waller Second Chance Scholarship Fund

This scholarship will provide $1,000 awards to justice-impacted individuals in Kansas City and Jackson County who are pursuing college, trade school, or career certification programs.

Because a criminal record should not permanently block opportunity.

I know that personally.

Before founding Clear Tomorrow KC, I faced arrests, barriers, and the weight of collateral consequences. I know how powerful it is when someone believes in your potential and gives you a chance to move forward.

Education changes lives.

Opportunity changes families.

Second chances change communities.

I have already personally funded the first scholarship to ensure that one student will receive support for the Fall 2026 semester.

Now I’m inviting our community to help fund the next one.

$1,000 sponsors one student.

Your support will help justice-impacted individuals pursue education, build careers, and create better futures for themselves and their families.

Together we can turn loss into legacy.

Together we can open doors that once seemed closed.

And together we can ensure that Jordyn’s name will forever stand for hope, opportunity, and second chances.

—

Johnny Waller Jr.

Founder, Clear Tomorrow KC

Jordyn L. Waller Second Chance Scholarship Fund

Honoring Life. Funding Futures. Creating Second Chances.

Team Members