(NewsNation) — Jeff Metcalf, the father of slain teen Austin Metcalf, has announced the launch of a foundation named in honor of his son.

The Austin Metcalf Foundation, according to local news outlet WFAA, aims to promote impulse control, conflict resolution and de-escalation among children and teenagers, with the goal of preventing other families from experiencing similar tragedies.

Metcalf said creating the foundation was his “God-given purpose.”

“It could have been a different outcome. Austin could have done something different, so could have the other person,” Metcalf said. “We don’t need split second decisions changing lives forever. You don’t want to visit your son in a cemetery or a jail cell.”

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Shortly after the announcement, Metcalf faced criticism over racist comments he made in an online video following Karmelo Anthony’s trial.

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“I said that that night. I own it,” Metcalf said. “I admit it, not my best moment. Can I do better? Yes. That’s why I’m trying to teach.”

The foundation is centered on a message Metcalf said could have changed everything.

“Could either one of them have done something different? Yes. You know what they both could have done? Walked away,” he said.

Anthony’s attorneys are appealing his 35-year sentence in Austin Metcalf’s stabbing death.

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