The YAN Foundation is a social justice organization committed to ending senseless gun violence through political advocacy, restorative justice and community engagement. Our mission is to provide scholarships, workshops and counseling for youth who are trying to turn their life around.

Yvonne Annette Nelson, affectionately known as “Rudy,” was the oldest child born to Franklin and Linda Nelson on March 30, 1967 in Chicago, Illinois.

Yvonne was a graduate of Chicago Vocational High School, Class of 1985. She furthered her education by attending Kennedy King College where she received an Associates Degree in General Studies. She later attended National Louis University where she was awarded her Bachelor of Science Degree in Healthcare Leadership. Shortly after her graduation, she began working at the City of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications as a Communications Operator.

Prior to working for the City of Chicago, Yvonne served in various capacities of banking, health, education, and social services. With such an entrepreneurial spirit, Yvonne also ran a small jewelry business. Her hobbies included dancing, reading, roller skating, traveling, shopping, interior design and spending time with friends and family. To know Yvonne was to love her. She filled the lives of those around her with laughter, love, and happiness. Her infectious spirit, smile, laugh and love for life caused her to be loved by all who she encountered.

On Friday, May 20, 2016, Yvonne was taken from this earth as a victim of gun violence