Genade Colley is preparing to see her community gather in support of her as she continues recovering from a severe gunshot wound. Two Months after surviving the shooting on Rickarby Street, the 51-year-old resident remains the center of an upcoming fundraiser meant to surround her with practical help and encouragement.
A benefit event takes place this Sunday, September 27, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Kazoola Courtyard, located at 558 Dauphin Street in downtown Mobile. The gathering serves as a space for the city to show up for a neighbor as she continues facing life after trauma.
The Incident on Rickarby Street
The circumstances leading to this community response began on the night of July 22, 2026. Genade Colley was sitting in her car outside her home on Rickarby Street after returning home from a birthday celebration when she was struck in the head by a stray bullet from nearby gunfire. An estimated 100 rounds of gunfire were discharged during the incident. Investigators believe that minors may have been involved in firing the shots.
Colley spent weeks in intensive care facing severe medical hurdles and extensive physical injuries. Although her recent surgery went well and allowed her to temporarily return home, the recovery process remains fluid and challenging. Mobile Police Department officials confirmed that the investigation remains active, and investigators continue searching for the suspect responsible. Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the night of July 22 to contact the Mobile Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
Fundraiser at Kazoola Courtyard
Sunday’s event moves the focus from the violence of July to the resilience of survival. Hosted by DJ Dirty Dan, the afternoon features music from DJ Rod Ski, performing as “The Mothership”, and a special live performance by Southern Soul vocalist Kai Darby.
The gathering carries the guiding message: “Surround Genade with Love & Hope.”
The proceeds from donations accepted at the door will go directly to Colley to assist with ongoing needs as her recovery continues. Surviving a severe trauma involves months of physical rehabilitation and daily adjustments, extending far beyond initial emergency medical treatment. Showing up on Dauphin Street offers both financial relief and emotional encouragement.
For individuals unable to attend the in-person event at Kazoola Courtyard, alternative digital donation paths have been provided to support her recovery fund. Contributions can be sent through Cash App using the handle $genadeyvette, Zelle at genadeyvette@gmail.com or directly to her Meal Train at https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/06zn53
Continuing the Local Conversation
While local safety initiatives and awareness efforts like Project Wear Orange: Mobile Community Takes a Stand Against Gun Violence, HALO Violence Prevention Training, and community Candlelight Vigil in Honor of Chyna Emoni Hickman in Mobile address the broader scope of violence in the city, Genade’s experience shows a different reality. Her story focuses on what happens when a survivor comes home and recovery continues long after the initial incident leaves the public eye.
