On a sunny March afternoon, William "Coogi Doogi" Jones Odom stood on the Westside baseball field with an enlarged photo of his brother Jamar "Bro Bro" Jones.
"This is where we are from," he said, looking around at the homes and fields. "I know everyone out here."
The field is the place he and his brother have provided the children of the Westside with an Easter egg hunt. The annual hunt has also provided a community meal and fun events for the youngsters.
With the death from natural causes of his brother in February, Odom is determined to keep the event going in memory of his sibling.
"This year, it will be real different," he said. "It will be for him."
Odom said he is accepting donations for the 11th annual Easter egg hunt, which will start at 3 p.m. March 31 at the Westside baseball field at 1195 Grove St.
"I don't have anything," Odom said. "I am starting from the ground up."
Odom said he is in need of donations of food, decorations, candy, plastic eggs or money. He said he needs 1,000 plastic eggs to hide in the field.
"A thousand is a good number," Odom said with a smile.
Kanika Jones, sister of William Jones Odom and Jamar Jones, said helping others enjoy Easter was a priority for Jamar Jones.
"Despite grappling with his own challenges, including chronic illness, Jamar remained resolute in his mission to infuse joy into the lives of families during Easter," she said by text. "Recognizing that many in our community struggled financially to partake in traditional holiday activities, he sought to bridge this gap by providing an inclusive and memorable experience for all.
"As we endeavor to carry forward the legacy of this cherished Easter event, we are reminded of the fundamental values it embodies: community, service and youth empowerment," she continued. "Moreover, it serves as a poignant testament to the profound impact of seemingly small acts of kindness on those who often go unnoticed or forgotten."
Last year's event drew more than 100 children enjoying sack races, a small petting zoo, pictures with the Peeps bunny, egg hunt, food, games and more. Odom is hopeful to have more youngsters this year.
"I hope this year we can make it bigger," Odom said.
For 2024, Odom said he is making one egg worth $40. He said children love finding the eggs, and he wants to make the event more special.
Odom said his goal is to make sure no child leaves empty handed. He also needs volunteers to help after the event.
"There are a lot of eggs to pick up," Odom said. "I need volunteers to clean up, too."
For Odom, the event brings him back to his roots and into the neighborhood where his 93 year-old grandmother, Mary M. Jones, and other family and friends still live.
He said he remembers his grandmother was always willing to give to anyone in need, and that giving spirit is the backbone of the egg hunt.
"My main goal is to inspire these kids," he said, "That's what my brother would want."
And by keeping the tradition going, Odom will also be shining a light on the memory of his late brother.
"Our family remains deeply indebted to the unwavering support and nourishment provided by our community during our times of need," Kanika Jones said. "It is in this spirit of gratitude and reciprocity that Jamar's legacy endures — a testament to his unwavering commitment to giving back and making a difference in the lives of others."
To donate, email coogidoogi@gmail.com.