Avery Farmer Foundation

Investing in the next generation as they strive for higher learning and reinforce their passion for serving others.

Turning Pain into Positive

In 2021, a tragic car accident took the life of high school senior, Avery Farmer. His death shocked the residents of Simpsonville, Kentucky and left holes in the hearts of many. Avery had a zest for life and a unique ability to bring people together. Less than a year later the AF Foundation was established. We strive to honor Avery’s legacy by investing in people and giving back to the community. We offer scholarships to high school seniors who have demonstrated selfless love and service to others.

Giving and Growing

What began as a scholarship program to honor a life lost has grown into something much, much more. In 2021, the AF Foundation awarded one scholarship to an exceptional student from Martha Layne Collins High School in Simpsonville, Kentucky. Over the next year the foundation was pleased to grant four scholarships in two different schools. As we look towards the future, we plan to continue this growth and reach schools across Kentucky and beyond. To see our vision realized, we need the support of people within our communities, business leaders, and non-profit agencies. The AF Foundation has partnered with the Commerce Enhancement Corporation (Shelby County Chamber of Commerce) for our scholarship program. The CEC is a 501c3 Charitable Organization and all donations are tax deductible.

$39,500

Awarded in high school
scholarships since 2021

$2,500

Awarded to students
entering the military since 2021

2024 scholarship winners

Eli Moreno

Eli was awarded the MLCHS $5,000 scholarship. Eli is very involved with the music ministry at his church. He played a pivotal role in creating a worship band for his youth group – one that he continues to be a part of today. His faith and love of Christ has propelled him to pour back into his community through food drives, numerous mission trips across Kentucky, and working with his church to provide a variety of services to those in need. “I truly believe that developing relationships starts with meeting and loving people where they are, without judgment.” Eli plans to pursue a career in law enforcement and join the Coast Guard. He also plans to works towards a secondary degree in Spanish so that he can serve others through a mission program in Mexico.

Chloe Aspillage

Chloe was awarded a $1,000 Cornerstone Christian Academy scholarship. Chloe has a true servants heart. She spent time in Poland renovating living spaces for Ukrainian refugees and connecting with Polish locals. She also travelled to Guatemala to build houses for destitute families. She gives her time and resources to her home state as well, most notably working with a population in Eastern Kentucky. She helped build decks for the disabled, organized and distributed resources at a food pantry, and visited nursing homes. Chloe understands that ‘Loving Big’ isn’t just about meeting the physical needs of others, but making sure everyone knows they have a place in this world. ” I think “loving big” means helping people find belonging, accepting people for who they are, and encouraging them to embrace the unique things that make them special.” Chloe plans to pursue a degree in Finance and Foreign Language and International Economics (Japanese).

Lexi Lee

Lexi was awarded a $1,000 Cornerstone Christian Academy scholarship. Lexi has a love for people from all cultures and backgrounds. She has taken multiple mission trips to Guatemala. The people and culture inspired her to learn Spanish. She is now a translator at the Shelbyville Touched Twice clinic and very active in her church’s Hispanic ministry. Lexi is always seeking out ways to serve others. She volunteers with the middle school ministry at her church, cooks and serves meals to the community, and uses her photography skills to take senior pictures for people who can’t afford them. Lexi exemplifies what it means to serve and love intentionally. “Showing just a little bit of love can really make a difference in someone’s life. I look for everyday ways I can show love to people around me.” Lexi plans on pursing a medial degree this fall and would eventually like to become a medical missionary in Guatemala.

Brayden Lacer

Brayden was awarded the $1,000 AFF Military scholarship. He is an exceptional student, leader and role model. His passion for people can be seen through his works and accomplishments. He earned his Eagle Rank in August 2023 and now serves as an Assistant Scout Leader. He has a passion for working with children with special needs and founded a special needs mentor program through the Student Lighthouse Committee at Clear Creek Elementary. He hopes to get involved in the Special Olympics for Children this year. In 2023, Brayden joined the Shelby County Volunteer Fire Department alongside his dad. While he ultimately decided to join the service, he and his father are working on The Fire Foundation, a non-profit organization that would provide metal health education and resources for first responders, in all lines of frontline service. “I simply want to be a better man and a positive role model. Continuing my education and learning bigger and better ways to serve my country and community will allow me to be a beacon for others and encourage positive change in our world.” Brayden enlisted with the Army National Guard as a Unit Supply Specialist.

Carson Young

Carson was awarded the $5,000 SCHS scholarship. Carson has a passion for people as shown by her involvement with Southeast Christian Church. She has been a church volunteer for many years, most notably with Vacation Bible School, after school programs, special weekend events, and summer camps. Carson’s love for Christ, and people, led her to spend summers as a camp counselor. She has a passion for working with youth and has been instrumental in helping many who were struggling and lost come to know Jesus Christ. “Building relationships with my campers is very near to my heart. Being able to be their leader and also their friend is always an honor.” Carson plans to attend bible college in the fall and pursue a degree in Christian Ministry, ultimately working with children and youth.

Young People Loving Big

High school can be a tough time for today’s youth. Often times these teens are overlooked when it comes to receiving university scholarships. Their paper resume and standardized test scores do not accurately reflect the person as whole. Avery knew getting a good education was important, but his heart was committed to showing people they have a place and a purpose in this world. He loved unconditionally in and outside the classroom. He had a heart for the broken, forgave easily, and knew that even the smallest of gestures could make a lasting impact in the lives of others. To honor his memory, the AF Foundation looks for high school seniors who embody this same character. We look for students who want to achieve higher education as well as have a lasting impact on others – to make a difference in this world and take action when change is needed.

Getting Personal

The AF Foundation receives numerous applications every year. Along with a high school transcript, students are required to submit an essay demonstrating how they have loved big within their community. The essays may include how personal struggles led them to help others, a passion for serving people, or a need to support a struggling community. There are so many inspirational stories. Tales of devastating loss, overcoming great obstacles, and selfless acts of kindness – we felt the need to know more – more than words on a piece of paper could provide. We wanted to meet these extraordinary individuals in person, so we do just that. After much consideration, the committee selects the top five candidates we feel truly embody the love big mantra and sit down with them for an interview. We learn about their aspirations, goals and how they plan to continue loving big in the future. There are kids who aspire to change the world. If they continue to love big, they will.

“You don’t have to do big things to change the world.
You just have to love the one in front of you.“