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, has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, heartfelt compassion, and an authentic dedication to helping those around her.
Addy’s love for tennis connects her uniquely with the heart of Kelli’s own story. Serving as the captain of her Varsity Tennis team, Addy stepped up as a leader, thoughtfully organizing events, managing the team’s social media presence, and designing team merchandise. But what truly sets Addy apart is her genuine concern for the well-being of her teammates, ensuring each player felt included, valued, and motivated—qualities reflective of the deep kindness Kelli brought to her own interactions on and off the court.
Her leadership doesn’t stop there. Addy has extended her influence across various areas at Lyons Township, making a significant impact as a Peer Tutor at the school’s Math/Science Drop-In Center. There, she patiently supports her peers in navigating challenging coursework, helping them gain confidence and achieve personal breakthroughs. Her recommender captured this essence perfectly, calling her “one of the most reliable, consistent, hardworking, and positive students” he has encountered in nearly two decades of working with teenagers.
Addy’s commitment to community and service has been evident through her dedication to the Youth Ministry at Saint John of the Cross, where she has actively participated in service projects and fundraisers designed to help those in need. Her quiet, consistent efforts behind the scenes speak volumes about her character, reminding us that compassion can often be found in the humble tasks that support others in meaningful ways.
As both a dedicated student-athlete on the track team and a shift manager in the Lifeguard Club, Addy consistently demonstrates her natural leadership combined with genuine empathy, mentorship, and vigilance. Her track coach highlighted her willingness to stay late, work hard, and support teammates by sharing her expertise generously, traits that naturally earned her the role of captain.
Addy’s sincerity and warmth are qualities everyone around her recognizes immediately. Her recommender shared how Addy’s “smile and warmth to her peers, adults, and children” distinctly embody the joyful and positive spirit Kelli brought into the lives of those around her.
As Addy prepares to pursue her dreams beyond high school, we at the Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation are honored to support her journey. We warmly welcome Addy into our family of scholarship recipients, confident in the knowledge that she will continue to make the world brighter with her compassion, leadership, and genuine kindness. Congratulations, Addy—we’re thrilled to watch you make your mark!
