Every Gift Tells a Story

Happy Feet — Each year, Happy Feet Equals Learning Feet provides new athletic shoes to approximately 175 students in Livingston County, helping ensure they are ready to learn and thrive. For many families, a new pair of shoes is more than a back-to-school purchase. It's an expense that competes with groceries, rent, utilities, and other everyday necessities.

The impact reaches far beyond a new pair of shoes. Children gain the confidence to walk into school, participate, and focus on learning instead of worn-out footwear. For parents, the gift eases financial pressure, allowing limited household dollars to cover other important needs and opportunities for their children.

As one parent shared, “Because of Happy Feet, I didn't have to choose between buying my child new shoes and purchasing school pictures. We were able to do both."

Richardson Fund Memorial Scholarship — Established in memory of Mr. Richardson’s mother, grandmother, and aunt, the scholarship also honors the meaningful childhood years he spent growing up in Salem. Mr. Richardson holds deep appreciation for his experiences in Livingston County Schools and continues to maintain a strong connection to the community, returning each year.

In recognition of the lasting impact Livingston County has had on his life and family, the Richardson family established this fund to support Livingston Central High School graduates as they pursue education or technical training beyond high school.

This year Avery Zaim was awarded $12,000; $3,000 per academic year for four years.