SEE WHAT DRIVES US TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The Shirley Walters Foundation was founded based on the life and work of the late Shirley Elaine  Walters  who was a Teacher,  School Principal, Sunday-School Teacher, Music Teacher, Choir Master, Life Insurance Agent, Ordained Minister, Wife/Mother and so much more to so many.

Her philosophy in life was reflected in several  bible  verses which she would often quote: 

"He that gives to the poor lends to the Lord" (Proverbs 19:17)

"He that wins  souls is wise." 

(Proverbs 11:30) 

"For God loveth a cheerful giver" 

(2 Corinthians. 9:7)

Undoubtedly, her live embodied these scriptures, which in turn led to the positive impact and indelible impression she has left on the lives of many individuals.

   This medium is one of the ways we are continuing her legacy. A legacy which embodies soul-winning, encouragement and giving in both cash and kind; giving especially to the cause of education while acknowledging that God is the ultimate Giver of All good things.

This venture is one of the ways we continue the vision and  work of Shirley Walters whose plan had also included the establishment of an organization where financial assistance would be made available for  students who desire to realize their academic dreams. 

Her love  for people and desire to see others excel was what  motivated and inspired our mission.

The headlines above are snippets of the situation in Jamaica  in 2015. This was an extremely devastating period for Shirley Walters, as two of these children were from communities in close proximity to hers.

  In response to this disturbing rise in crime against children, Shirley Walters, a woman of profound faith and unwavering commitment to her community, took a stand. She gathered four of her colleagues for a weekly prayer meeting. They were driven by a shared desire to seek divine intervention and community support; their hearts united by a shared concern for the safety and well-being of the nation’s children.

. The focus of these heartfelt gatherings at her home was on seeking divine intervention and guidance through prayer. As these meetings progressed, the group began to uncover deeper issues affecting the youth in their community. One significant problem that emerged was the alarming number of children who lacked the financial means to pursue their education. 

Recognizing the urgent need for a more proactive approach Shirley and her colleagues introduced a simple yet profound initiative into their weekly prayer gatherings, propelling it into a platform for action. Each week, they would place any amount they could afford into a dedicated container. This container, strategically labeled (For Needy Students)  and placed in Shirley's home, stood as a symbol of hope and solidarity. Visitors to her home were invited to contribute, adding to the collective effort.

At the start of each school year, the funds collected were presented to the parents of selected needy students, providing much-needed financial assistance to support their educational needs. This initiative not only offered immediate relief but also fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility.

From these humble beginnings, the Shirley Walters Foundation was born. What started as a small group united in prayer has grown into a powerful force for change, dedicated to uplifting children and ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive.

In 2019, the establishment of the Shirley Walters Foundation was divinely orchestrated when, Ainsley Dixon one who had benefitted immensely from Shirley's  benevolent generosity, announced at her memorial service that a scholarship foundation be established in her honor to carry on the legacy of selfless giving and genuine concern for the spiritual and physical wellbeing of others.

This organization not only continues to uphold the spiritual foundation upon which it was established but also actively works to address the critical needs of children across Jamaica.

 Through unwavering dedication and the strength of collective effort, the Shirley Walters Foundation strives to make educational goals more easily attainable for those in need of financial assistance.

In 2019, during the solemn yet heartfelt memorial service for Shirley Walters, Ainsley Dixon took to the podium to share a story that resonated deeply with everyone present. Shirley Walters, a beacon of kindness and generosity, had an indelible impact on Ainsley's life, shaping his future in ways he never imagined.

Ainsley recounted how Aunty Shirley’s (as he affectionately called her) unwavering support and faith in him led to a transformative opportunity.

 Through her efforts, he secured a full scholarship for high school. This was not merely a stepping stone but a launchpad that propelled him to new heights. With another scholarship for university, Ainsley broke free from the shackles of poverty, excelling academically and professionally

. Today, he stands as a testament to her legacy, living in one of Florida's most esteemed neighborhoods, a symbol of success and triumph.

In his touching tribute, Ainsley made a powerful announcement: the establishment of a scholarship foundation in Shirley Walters' honor. 

This foundation aims to perpetuate her legacy of selfless giving and genuine concern for the welfare  of others. He envisioned it as a vessel of hope, providing opportunities to many more like him, who needed just that one chance to transform their lives.

Ending his speech with deep gratitude and resolve, Ainsley made the first donation of 15,000 Jamaican dollars (approximately 100 USD) towards this noble cause. His gesture marked the beginning of a venture that promises to change lives, just as Shirley Walters had done for him. 

Through this foundation, her spirit of generosity and kindness will continue to inspire and uplift countless individuals, ensuring that her legacy of caring for others lives on.