The Shelby Cooper Memorial Fund was founded in 2005 by Tim and Tammy Cooper in loving memory of their daughter, Shelby. What began as a way to honor Shelby's life by providing scholarships to Lucas High School graduates has grown into a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the people and causes closest to home.

Over the past two decades, we've expanded our mission beyond scholarships to support local organizations, charitable events, and community initiatives throughout Richland County. From helping families facing food insecurity through Blessings in a Backpack to supporting projects that improve accessibility and quality of life, our focus remains on making a meaningful difference in our own backyard.

At the heart of our fundraising efforts is the annual Shelby Cooper Memorial Golf Outing, which has brought together friends, families, local businesses, and community supporters for 20 years. What began as a local, memorial tournament has grown into a successful, annual tradition and our primary source of fundraising, allowing us to award scholarships, support local organizations, and take on increasingly meaningful community initiatives.

Our work is made possible by the generosity of friends, family, local businesses, and community members who share our commitment to giving back. Through our annual golf outing, fundraising efforts, and community partnerships, we're proud to continue Shelby's legacy by investing in the students, families, and organizations that make our community stronger.

Our mission is simple: to support the people, programs, and causes that make a difference right here at home.