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Kimberly Jacobs

Keeper of an Extraordinary Heart

In early April, Kimberly Jacobs’ son Gabriel died at age 12 from a rare heart condition while playing basketball with his dad and three brothers in the backyard. Even as the family grieved their intense loss, Jacobs was looking for ways to carry on her son’s legacy.

“We wanted his heart to keep beating in the hearts of other people who were really similar to him,” says Jacobs, who is married to Frank Jacobs, pastor atThe Rock Worship Center.

She founded Gabe’s Heart Foundation, a nonprofit organization that recognizes people of all ages for helping other people, excelling in school and athletics, and service to the community. Gabe, who stood 5 feet, 10 inches and wore shoe size 13, was a “gentle giant” who loved sports and went out of his way to include others and stand up for his peers who were bullied.

Several Gabe’s Heart awards already have been awarded, including one to a 94-year-old “church mother” and former basketball player who faithfully prays for people at The Rock. The nonprofit also has given financial awards to help with expenses when children tragically die. The first Gabe’s Heart Foundation 5K run/walk takes place Nov. 21 at the ZMax Dragway in Concord. The first formal gala is scheduled for May 2016 where more awards will be given.

Jacobs said she loves meeting people through Gabe’s Heart who are like her son and is planning other ways for the nonprofit to help in the community. “To see other people who are doing it Gabe’s way is just an honorable cause to me.”

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