We are eight of Melissa’s teammates and friends who have come together to create the Live for 24 Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3).
The Live for 24 Foundation exists to continue the legacy of Melissa Vanderhall, Lynn Vanderhall, and Janel Simpson by giving deserving youth the opportunity to flourish.
We believe by working together as her former teammates and close friends, alongside trusted community partners, we can change the story of a child’s life by providing life-enriching opportunities through meaningful service and scholarships.
On August 12th, 2017 three lives were taken from this world. Melissa, the first of her family to graduate from college, excelled athletically and academically at the University of Tampa and then went on to accomplish her dream of becoming a Physician Assistant. Despite being one of UT’s most prolific student-athletes of all time, she will be remembered most for generous heart, her infectious smile, and her ability to make everyone feel loved.
Janel, a graduate of the University of Buffalo with a degree in Business Administration, was working as a secretary at Norwell Health. Janel had the ability to make anyone laugh and created happiness wherever she went. She was loved by many, and will be missed by all.
Lynn, a happy, loving mother, was devoted to her children and her work caring for children at Hempstead’s Family and Children’s Association. She always put others before herself; she was a shining example of what it means to be a selfless, kind-hearted mother, friend, co-worker, sister, wife, and daughter.