SHELBY — The Shelby Foundation’s annual fundraiser, An Evening with The Shelby Foundation: For a Brighter Tomorrow, held on Saturday, Sept. 20 at the Kehoe Center, brought the community together for a night of generosity — and record-breaking impact.
Nearly 300 community members came together for an evening of camaraderie, giving, and celebration — and the results were historic.
● The Live Auction raised $85,000, the highest in the Foundation’s history.
● The much-anticipated Mystery Package — revealed to be a week-long stay for eight in Bimini, Bahamas — drew an astounding $21,500.
● The Silent Auction brought in $25,200, also a Foundation record.
As of now, total proceeds from the evening stand at an incredible $187,600.
“Every dollar raised goes right back into this community — some projects are very visible, like our downtown buildings, while others are smaller, behind-the-scenes grants. But every dollar makes a difference,” said Carrie Kemerer, executive director of The Shelby Foundation.
“To see this level of generosity and excitement is inspiring. Our donors know their contributions have a real impact.”
Honoring Visionary Leadership: Frank Benham
One of the evening’s most meaningful moments was the presentation of the Visionary Award to longtime community leader Frank Benham. Frank and his wife, Debbie, have been deeply rooted in Shelby from the start — raising their family here, investing in local business, and supporting countless initiatives that strengthen the town’s future.
A generous business owner and devoted family man, Frank built a reputation for leading quietly but powerfully. He has been an active supporter of the Shelby school district and a dedicated champion of The Shelby Foundation. Believing deeply in the Foundation’s mission and Shelby’s potential, he encouraged the Board to “aim higher” and think boldly about its role in shaping the community.
Frank’s vision helped launch some of the Foundation’s most beloved community traditions, including Sponsored Family Fun Nights at Seltzer Pool and Kids Day at the YMCA — both designed to bring joy to children and families regardless of their circumstances. His trust in the Foundation’s leadership and his belief in what’s possible for Shelby have inspired donors, volunteers, and neighbors alike to step forward and invest in a brighter tomorrow.
“Frank has been a quiet but constant force for good in Shelby,” said Kemerer. “His example of generosity and belief in community potential has raised the bar for all of us.”
A Night of Celebration and Impact
Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour, dinner catered by Buehler’s, and an engaging program highlighting the Foundation’s past, present, and future. In addition to celebrating charitable giving, the evening reflected on the Foundation’s mission: Connecting generosity with community need.
“Every year, this event is fun — but more than that, it’s about pride in our community and hope for what’s ahead,” Kemerer said.
About The Shelby Foundation
The Shelby Foundation is a community foundation serving Shelby and the surrounding area by connecting donors’ generosity with the community’s greatest needs. Through grants, scholarships, and community initiatives, the Foundation strengthens local nonprofits, supports students, and invests in projects that improve the quality of life for all who call Shelby home.
Learn more at www.theshelbyfoundation.org.