Published: December 14, 2025 Author: Brenda & John O’Laughlin As we sit down to write this, it is the morning after our annual holiday celebration. Yesterday, the gymnasium at Maryville Academy was transformed. If you look at the photos we’ve shared, you’ll see a sea of red and green bags, piles of wrapped boxes, a …
At the Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation, we continually find inspiration in young people who naturally embody compassion, kindness, and genuine warmth—qualities that defined Kelli’s beautiful legacy. It’s with great excitement that we announce Maddie Brennan as one of our newest scholarship recipients. Maddie, soon to graduate from Lyons Township High School, has touched the …
In every community, certain individuals shine brightly, reminding us all about the profound power of kindness, optimism, and compassion. Today, it’s our absolute pleasure at the Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation to welcome Avery McDonnell as our newest scholarship recipient. Avery, a soon-to-be graduate of Lyons Township High School, embodies the spirit of kindness, service, …
At the Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation, we’re constantly inspired by young individuals whose actions and attitudes resonate deeply with the warmth, generosity, and caring spirit that Kelli Joy exemplified. Today, we’re proud and excited to introduce Addison “Addy” Pelling as our newest scholarship recipient. Addy, who is soon graduating from Lyons Township High School, …
Each year, as we read through applications for the Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Scholarship, we are reminded of how many extraordinary young people are out there making a difference in their own unique ways. Some do it through quiet consistency, others through bold acts of leadership. And some — like Natalie Finnegan — manage to …
The Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation is proud to welcome James Wells as one of six recipients of our 2025 scholarships. James, a senior at Lindblom Math & Science Academy, has been awarded a $4,000 renewable scholarship in recognition of his academic achievement, athletic dedication, and deep commitment to compassion and service. James exemplifies …
