Trenton native featured in new book highlighting the power of grandfamilies

Trenton native Shaheed Muhammad Morris is among the inspiring individuals featured in the newly released book, Grandfamilies: The Stories of Children and the Loving Relatives Who Raise Them, authored by renowned advocate and storyteller Donna Butts. 

The book shines a light on the millions of children across America who are being raised by grandparents and other relatives, sharing powerful stories of resilience, love, sacrifice, and hope.

In the United States, over 2.4 million children are being raised in grandfamilies, where they are cared for by grandparents or other loved ones due to their parents’ inability to provide care. This situation highlights the resilience and strength of these families, who step in to ensure that children have a stable and loving environment. 

Published in partnership with advocates for kinship care and family support, the book explores the experiences of children whose lives were shaped by relatives who stepped forward during times of uncertainty. 

Through personal narratives, the book highlights the critical role grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members play in providing stability, guidance, and unconditional love.

For Morris, the story is deeply personal.

Raised in public housing in Trenton, New Jersey, Morris credits much of his success to the dedication of his grandmother, the late Lucinda Dockery, who helped raise him and instilled in him the values of faith, education, perseverance, and service. Growing up in challenging circumstances, Morris learned early that poverty did not have to define his future.

“Many people see public housing and assume limitations,” Morris, 38, said. “What I saw were people who sacrificed for one another, neighbors who looked out for each other, and a grandmother who believed I could accomplish anything despite the obstacles around me.”

Like many children featured in the book, Morris benefited from a strong support network of relatives who stepped in to help guide his path. Their encouragement helped him navigate challenges that often derail young people from underserved communities.

Reflecting on the people who shaped his life, Shaheed praised several individuals whose guidance and encouragement helped define his journey.

In addition to his beloved grandmother, Morris honors the late John T. Campbell and the late Michael I. Days, along with his wife, Angela P. Dodson, for their mentorship, unwavering support, and steadfast belief in his potential. 

Morris believes that without their wisdom, compassion, and guidance, he would not be the person he is today. Their legacy continues to inspire his lifelong commitment to serving others, uplifting communities, and striving for excellence.

That support ultimately fueled a remarkable educational journey.

As a first-generation college graduate, Morris earned an associate degree in Applied Science from Mercer County Community College before receiving a bachelor’s degree from South Dakota State University. He later pursued graduate studies in Real Estate Finance at Iowa State University, further expanding his expertise in housing and community development. In addition, he became a licensed funeral director in the State of New Jersey.

Today, Morris is recognized as a leader in affordable housing, public policy, strategic communications, and community development. 

Yet Morris says his greatest lesson came not from a classroom or professional setting, but from the woman who raised him.

“My grandmother taught me that success is measured not by titles or wealth, but by how much you give back to others,” Morris said. “Her love, discipline, and faith shaped every opportunity I’ve had in life.”

Donna Butts’ book captures stories like Morris’ to demonstrate how grandfamilies help transform lives. 

According to national estimates, millions of children in the United States live in households headed by grandparents or other relatives. These caregivers often step into parental roles unexpectedly, providing emotional support, financial stability, and a sense of belonging during difficult times.

Through personal accounts, Grandfamilies celebrates these unsung heroes while drawing attention to the unique challenges and triumphs they experience. Morris’ story serves as a testament to the life-changing impact that loving relatives can have on a child’s future.

From the public housing developments of Trenton to earning multiple college degrees and building a career dedicated to public service, Morris’ journey reflects the central message of the book: when children are surrounded by love, guidance, and opportunity, they can overcome extraordinary odds.

His inclusion in Grandfamilies: The Stories of Children and the Loving Relatives Who Raise Them not only honors his personal story but also pays tribute to the countless grandparents and relatives whose sacrifices help shape future generations.

Morris is in the process of establishing a foundation named after his late grandmother. This foundation aims to provide resources for young people who are being raised by their grandparents or older adults. Additionally, Morris, who is Muslim, stated that the foundation will also support first-generation college students who are Muslim.

For Morris, the recognition is both humbling and meaningful.

“This book is really about my grandmother and the many relatives who step up every day to raise children,” he said. “If my story gives hope to one young person growing up in circumstances like mine, then sharing it is worth it.”