"This is really a shock to us, but I can say Prince lived his life to the fullest," said NYPS CEO Frank Walker in a statement. "I thank him for all the young people he introduced to YPS and how he continued to be involved with the NYPS family as an alumni."

The Chicago native was well known for his dance talents, performing at over 100 events throughout the city, according to NYPS.

Robert "Kirk" Fondern, a board member of NYPS and a friend of Edwards, described Edwards as "very free-spirited, very open-minded."

"He was always in a great spirit, always willing to help," said Fondern.

According to Fondern, Edwards worked with homeless youth on Chicago's North Side, passing along his dance skills younger performers.

"He was just a good person in general," Fondern said.

Edwards participated in the NYPS dance team, Next Level.

His parents were also active in the organization, according to an NYPS statement.

In addition to working with NYPS, Edwards was a member of the Luv Family, a chosen gay family.

Fondern said that Edwards had been ill for some time.