A Life of Promise. A Legacy of Purpose.
On Easter Day in 2004, Will Trippley—a beloved son, loyal friend, and full-scholarship athlete—was walking home in Chester, Pennsylvania, when he was tragically caught in the crossfire of a violent drug deal. Will lost his life to gun violence that day, shaking his family and community to the core.
In the face of unimaginable grief, Will’s mother, Patricia Trippley, made a powerful choice: to honor her son's life by helping others. With the support of Will’s friends, she launched the William Trippley Youth Development Foundation—now known as the Will Trippley Foundation—to change the narrative for the next generation in Chester and beyond.
What began as a tribute to Will’s life has become a growing force for healing, hope, and opportunity for children and families navigating the painful aftermath of loss.
Supporting Children and Families Across Pennsylvania
For over 18 years, the Will Trippley Foundation has walked alongside children and families navigating grief, trauma, and loss. While our roots are in Chester, PA and Delaware County, our impact reaches across Pennsylvania and surrounding communities, offering consistent, compassionate, and culturally responsive care. We understand that loss comes in many forms—death, incarceration, addiction, divorce, and more. Our programs meet families where they are, creating safe, healing-centered spaces to process their experiences and begin moving forward together.
Programs Rooted in Healing, Built on Love
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Camp Encouragement
A free summer camp that helps children ages 7–12 process loss through counseling, creative expression, peer connection, and empowering new experiences.
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Jovonne's Healing Center
A year-round grief support program offering in-person sessions for children and virtual support groups for adults, creating safe, accessible spaces to heal after loss.
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Healing Connections
An expressive arts therapy program that gives children tools to process loss through painting, movement, journaling, and other creative outlets.
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Healthy Kids Running Series
A five-week seasonal race series that promotes physical wellness, confidence, and community for children of all abilities in Chester and beyond.
Our Vision
We envision a world where children and families—regardless of background or income—have access to the emotional support, resources, and community they need to heal and grow after loss.
Our long-term goal is to expand our reach throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring communities, offering consistent, culturally responsive care that breaks cycles of trauma and creates lasting change. By strengthening the social-emotional health of grieving children and their families today, we build more compassionate, connected communities for tomorrow.
Why It Matters
Grief doesn’t end with a funeral—and it doesn’t always start with death. Children and families often carry invisible losses, from incarceration and divorce to addiction and abandonment. Without support, these experiences can derail futures. The Will Trippley Foundation steps in where few others do—meeting families where they are and walking alongside them with empathy and care.
Help Us Carry Will’s Legacy Forward
Your gift ensures that children and families facing loss receive the support, care, and healing they deserve, at no cost to them. Together, we can turn pain into purpose and build a future where no one grieves alone.