More than 60 years ago, a handful of local leaders from Shelby County came together in the hopes of fostering philanthropy. From that idea, the Community Foundation of Shelby County was created to help individuals provide lasting gifts to make a difference in our community. Since then, numerous people have turned to the Community Foundation to support their favorite charitable causes and organizations or to create a legacy in remembrance of a loved one.

Almost 11 years ago, the life of Steve and Judy Magoto’s son was cut abruptly short. Kyle was only 16 and a Russia High School sophomore when he was killed in a traffic accident that rocked the close-knit Russia community.

From that tragedy, the Kyle R. Magoto Scholarship Fund was created by Kyle’s parents. Family, friends and others in the community contributed to the fund so each year a scholarship could be given to a Russia High School senior in memory of Kyle.

“We hope that this scholarship will help students be able to continue their education with a little less debt and remember Kyle in a special way,” Judy Magoto said. “Kyle was a very giving person and he would be so proud to be associated with the scholarship.”

Kyle loved animals, water skiing, sports and being with his friends. He was active in church activities and even had a rosary in his pocket at the time of his accident. In addition to being an excellent student, Kyle also participated in cross country, track and basketball and not long before his accident had been honored for giving 110 percent every time he stepped on the field and consistently going the extra mile.

In remembrance of Kyle’s achievements in the classroom and his love of sports, the Kyle R. Magoto Scholarship is awarded to a Russia senior who is pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and has participated in no less than five athletic seasons throughout high school.

“We were so overwhelmed with all of the support we received after Kyle’s accident that we want to give back as a way of saying, ‘Thank you,’ to all the people who helped us,” Steve Magoto said. “We continue to get support from family and friends so it is important for us to continue to give.”

The Magoto family would also like to thank everyone who contributed in the past and to those who continue to contribute to keep this scholarship possible for years to come.

The Community Foundation houses more than 110 local scholarships totaling more than $160,000 in one-time and renewable awards. To support the Kyle R. Magoto Scholarship or any existing fund or to learn how you can create your own, contact the Community Foundation at 497-7800 or visit www.commfoun.com. The Community Foundation has been helping people help others since 1952 by managing many charitable funds created by local residents or organizations to support favorite causes and organizations.