Kevin-Ballantine

Kevin William Ballantine, of DeKalb, lived a short life. After a three year struggle with leukemia, he passed away in January 2012 at the age of 23. Kevin always strove to inspire those around him and desired to make a difference. To honor Kevin and his desire to make a difference, the Ballantine-DeMers family partnered with the DeKalb County Community Foundation to create the Kevin Ballantine Music Scholarship Fund. To provide inspiration and assist with college expenses, this scholarship fund is awarded annually to a graduating senior at DeKalb High School active in the music program.

Kevin’s goal was to become a high school chemistry teacher, but his passion was marching band. He was a percussion section leader both at DeKalb High School and at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. He went out of his way to encourage new band members and make them feel welcome. He also felt strongly that students and people should educate themselves on current issues and take an active part in government. Partnering with the Community Foundation is a perfect way for Kevin’s energy and memory to live on, and to give back to the community that fostered his concern for others.

In the opening chapter of a planned autobiography that was never finished, Kevin wrote: “I hope that this book will allow me to live on in some way, continuing to make a difference in the world, however small that difference may be.” The book was left unfinished, but the Kevin Ballantine Music Scholarship Fund will make Kevin’s dream of continuing to make a difference in the world come true.

At the Community Foundation, we are honored to work side by side with donors like the Ballantine-DeMers family to provide inspiration and make a difference in our community. To start a fund that aligns with your charitable interests or to provide support to an existing fund, please contact Dan Templin, Executive Director, at 815-748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.

There is Strength Through Partnership!

Pictured from left: The Ballantine-DeMers Family – Pooja, David, Kevin (photo), Diane DeMers, Keerti