A Life of Sport, Music, and Service
Antowaine Richardson Sr. was a beloved father, athlete, musician, mentor, and community leader whose life embodied resilience, creativity, and service.
Born on January 19, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, Antowaine’s journey through life was marked by extraordinary achievements and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Despite being a talented artist and painter, it was his athletic prowess that led him to Seattle and the University of Washington where he played football under the tutelage of the legendary coach, Don James; as a Husky, Antowaine demonstrated grit, teamwork, and leadership on and off the field.
After a knee injury derailed his pro-football aspirations, Antowaine found his voice as the charismatic lead singer of Seattle’s cherished a cappella group, The Main Attraction. The group’s rise in prominence included being an entertainment staple at the Bite of Seattle, as well as the opening act for everyone from Eddie Murphy to Natalie Cole and B.B. King, to the Charlie Daniels Band and Manhattan Transfer. The beloved group was often at the center of high society in the Pacific Northwest, and its root was Antowaine’s soulful vocals and magnetic stage presence.
He continued his legacy of service as a long-time board member for the Boys and Girls Club and a Lead Youth Facilitator at the Pacific Institute, helping young people grow in confidence and capability through education, mentorship and unlocking human potential through self-empowerment.
Although Antowaine passed away on November 10, 2023, his spirit of courage, creativity, mentorship, and generosity continues to inspire and impact others.
Guided by Antowaine’s legacy — in athletics, music, and community service — we offer holistic support to young people who demonstrate passion, creativity, and resilience, especially through challenges including financial hardship, health obstacles, or access barriers.
Talented youth often face significant obstacles that can interrupt or derail their athletic or creative journeys. Our foundation stands in the gap, offering both inspiration and practical support so that barriers do not become endpoints.
The Antowaine Richardson Foundation is committed to transparency, stewardship, and meaningful impact. Donor funds are used across strategic programming phases to ensure sustainability and long-term benefit.
Building a strong, independent nonprofit foundation
Donor funds in this phase support:
Establishing governance, policies, and operational systems
Legal and administrative costs related to obtaining independent 501(c)(3) status
Development of compliance, financial reporting, and accountability infrastructure
Objective:
To establish a strong governance based on donor trust, long-term sustainability, and the ability to expand impact responsibly.
Delivering meaningful support where it’s needed most
Donations directly support:
Athlete & Artist Support Fund
Compassionate assistance for youth facing health-related, injury-related, or personal hardship
Inspiration & Identity Building Programs
Speaker series, mentorship, workshops, and youth recognition initiatives
Access & Development Support
Scholarships, equipment, creative resources, and participation opportunities
Objective:
To establish programs that ensure young athletes and artists are supported holistically—not just for performance, but for resilience and well-being.
Scaling impact and strengthening community reach
Donor funds in this phase support:
Expansion of programs based on demonstrated impact and community needs
Long-term partnerships with schools, arts organizations, and athletic programs
Development of legacy initiatives, such as annual awards, signature events, or named support funds honoring Antowaine Richardson’s life and values
Objective:
This phase ensures the Foundation’s work continues to grow, evolve, and honor Antowaine Richardson’s legacy for generations to come.
