How It All Began

The vision for the Shauntavia Ne'Chelle Horlbeck Memorial Foundation began in the heart of Shauntavia's Godmother, Althea Holcy. Following Shauntavia's untimely passing, Althea was determined that her beloved goddaughter's extraordinary life and enduring legacy would continue to inspire future generations. She envisioned creating an organization that would honor Shauntavia's memory by preserving and extending the values that defined her life: faith, compassion, excellence, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to education.

Before taking the first step, Althea reached out to George and Frances Horlbeck to share her vision and seek their blessing. Together, they embraced the dream, united by a shared desire to preserve Shauntavia's legacy in a way that would continue changing lives. With their encouragement, unwavering support, and partnership, what began as a heartfelt conversation soon became a meaningful reality.

The Foundation's original vision centered on establishing a memorial scholarship for graduating seniors of Mount Nebo AME Church (Awendaw), a church family that nurtured Shauntavia's faith, celebrated her accomplishments, and remained an important part of her life's journey.

Shauntavia's spiritual foundation, however, began many years earlier at Vanderhorst Memorial CME Church, where she devoted much of her early life. It was there that the seeds of her faith were planted, her commitment to service was strengthened, and many of the values that guided her throughout her life began to take root. The church community played an important role in her formative years, surrounding her with faith, fellowship, encouragement, and opportunities to serve.

Together, Vanderhorst Memorial CME Church and Mount Nebo AME Church represent meaningful chapters in Shauntavia's spiritual journey. Vanderhorst Memorial CME Church helped shape the foundation of her early faith and service, while Mount Nebo AME Church became her spiritual home and continued nurturing her faith throughout her life's journey.

As planning continued, they reflected on the countless lives Shauntavia had touched. It became evident that limiting the Foundation's mission to a single scholarship could never fully capture the breadth of her influence or the lasting impact she made on so many people.

The schools where Shauntavia faithfully served as an educator also became an extension of her ministry. In every classroom, she encouraged students to believe in themselves, challenged them to pursue excellence, and led with kindness, patience, compassion, and genuine love for those entrusted to her care.

Shauntavia's educational journey carried her through several remarkable school communities where she faithfully served students and fellow educators at West Florence High School, Ashley Ridge High School, West Ashley High School, and North Charleston High School. Each school represented another chapter in her unwavering commitment to shaping lives through education, mentorship, and service.

With that realization, the Foundation's vision expanded. Rather than limiting its impact to a single scholarship, the decision was made to establish scholarship opportunities for deserving students affiliated with Vanderhorst Memorial CME Church and Mount Nebo AME Church, as well as students attending the schools where Shauntavia devoted her career as an educator. In doing so, the Foundation honors every chapter of her life, her early spiritual foundation, her continued faith journey, her profession, and her unwavering dedication to empowering young people to reach their fullest potential.

Today, the Shauntavia Ne'Chelle Horlbeck Memorial Foundation has evolved into a multifaceted organization dedicated to preserving Shauntavia's legacy through education, service, and community engagement. Beyond providing scholarships, the Foundation is committed to recognizing outstanding educators, supporting educational initiatives, promoting literacy, mentoring students, and serving communities through meaningful outreach programs that reflect Shauntavia's heart for service.

Every scholarship awarded, every educator recognized, every student encouraged, and every community served is a living testament to Shauntavia's enduring legacy. Through this work, her light continues to shine, inspiring hope, opening doors, strengthening communities, and reminding others that one life lived with love and purpose can make an everlasting difference.

What began as one Godmother's promise to preserve the memory of her beloved goddaughter has grown into a Foundation dedicated to transforming lives through education, compassion, and service. We invite you to become part of this enduring legacy as we honor Shauntavia's life, continue her legacy, and inspire future generations.

Honoring Her Life. Continuing Her Legacy.

Educate • Empower • Inspire