By Jeff Murphy,
December 2, 2016
WARRENSBURG, MO – Honoring the legacy of a University of Central Missouri alumnus
whose life was tragically cut short, the Blaine Whitworth Go Big or Go Home Foundation
has provided a financial gift to help a student in need.
The parents of Blaine Whitworth - Barry and Diane Whitworth - were on campus Nov.
30 to present a $1,000 check to staff members at the Military and Veterans Success
Center (MVSC). Two members of the Foundation board also were on hand for the event
in the Elliott Student Union.
Delilah Nichols, in-reach and out-reach programs, services and special events coordinator
for Military and Veteran Services, said this is the second time the Blaine Whitworth
Go Big or Go Home Foundation has provided funds to help students at the MVSC who are
pursuing their education at UCM.
“This individual did not ask for assistance. After overhearing a conversation we approached
this person,” Nichols said. “They were very reluctant to receive help.”
With no other sources of financial assistance available, MVSC staff contacted the
Foundation. They found a willing source of help at this student’s time of need.
“This is a bridge when there aren’t other programs available,” Barry Whitworth said
in talking about the value of Go Big or Go Home Foundation funds.
The Foundation was established in memory of the Whitworth’s son, Blaine, a young entrepreneur
and Warrensburg business owner who was killed outside his home on Sept. 1, 2012.
Known for his giving nature, his family and friends established the Foundation to
honor his memory and to continue the work he was doing in the community to help make
a positive difference in other people’s lives. Whitworth’s favorite slogan, “Go Big
or Go Home,” has become the motto for those celebrating his legacy. Events such as
an annual Blaine Whitworth Go Big or Go Home 5K Run/Walk, which will take place in
downtown Warrensburg April 8, 2017, help raise funds to assist those in need.
“We’re very involved with the university, and last year, a lot of the veterans came
out and helped,” Diane Whitworth said in talking about the annual fundraising run/walk.
“We also have a silent auction that enables us to be able to give back.”
She noted that her son had a strong desire to help others who were less fortunate
than him. His generosity included taking in a homeless veteran who was living with
him and attending college at the time of Whitworth’s death.
Helping veterans “was very important to Blaine. He wasn’t a veteran but his grandpas
were,” Mrs. Whitworth said. “It is important that we do things in his memory.”
Individuals who want to learn more about the Military and Veterans Success Center
can contact Nichols at 660-543-8977 or email nichols@ucmo.edu. To learn more about
the Blaine Whitworth Go Big or Go Home Foundation, call 816-547-3829 or visit blainewhitworthfoundation.com.
