Founded by parents Mary and David Snyder for grants and scholarships, preferably to students exhibiting financial need and to nonprofits working in the visual arts, children’s services and environmental conservation.

Michael Snyder’s happiest moments were when he could interact with children and teach them art. He dedicated his time to people in need. A work-related accident claimed his life at young age. He was born on August 14, 1975 in Bethesda, Maryland. A graduate of Brunswick High School, he continued his education at Frederick Community College and Shepherd University. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington. A talented and creative artist and writer, his career goal was to become an art teacher. He earned the Eagle Scout award for his strong sense of right and wrong at the age of 15. He joined Big Brothers Big Sisters to become a mentor to at-risk children. Through mentoring, helping children and adults with disabilities, opposing animal cruelty and fighting for social change, Michael proved to be a giving and caring person. To honor their only son’s memory, parents Mary and David Snyder established a donor-advised fund. The Michael C. Snyder Memorial Fund awards grants and scholarships to children with financial needs and nonprofit organizations in the areas of the visual arts, children’s services and environmental conservation, all of which were passions close to Michael’s heart.