To honor the legacy of Marko Niketic, who was a South senior, the Marko Niketic Foundation was created to positively impact the community as Marko once did and raise aware- ness about reckless driving, Gordana Niketic, Marko’s mother said.

The charity aligns with Marko’s passion for empowering youth, assisting the elderly, and uplifting disadvantaged individuals. Last May, Marko passed away in a tragic car accident caused by a driver alleged to have been charged with speeding and driving under the influence.

“The foundation was established in response to the overwhelming outpouring of love and donations from family, friends, neighbors, strangers, the Glenview
and Lincolnwood communities, and the Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Community,” Gordana said.

Marko’s Presence, a platform created for friends and families to share stories about Marko, is a crucial aspect of the foundation, Gordana said. Marko’s life should be remembered for its impact on his loved ones, rather than how it ended, she explained.

“Marko’s Presence was created to share a glimpse of how truly remarkable [Marko] was [as a] way for oth- ers to see beyond the tragedy and honor the bright, inspiring person he will always be,” Gordana said.

The foundation has been working on projects including a bench placed in Cole Park, a place where Marko and his brother Luka Niketic made a lot of childhood memories, a 5k walk hosted by Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral to raise money for the foundation, and by a sign on East Lake Avenue memorializing Marko’s legacy while referencing the dangers of drunk driving. The community has responded with love and support to the foundation’s work to honor Marko’s legacy, Gordana added.

“Glenview has been a tremendous source of comfort and strength for our family during this difficult time,” Gordana said. “The community’s response has reaffirmed our commitment to en- suring the foundation makes a lasting impact.”

Moving forward, the foundation hopes to partner with Youth Services to create a garden in Marko’s name, Gordana said. The garden will be planted in Cole Park next spring.

“[Marko’s Garden] will provide a serene environment for friends, family, and the community to find peace and tranquility, reflecting Marko’s life,” Gordana said.

There are a variety of ways for volunteers to become involved in the foundation, Gordana said. Through donations, attending future events, and participating in service days, many can make an impactful difference in respecting Marko’s legacy and give back to the community.

“Whether it’s through food and clothing drives, helping plant in Marko’s Garden, or volunteering where needed, these efforts will honor Marko’s spirit,” Gordana said.