About the Gabriella Shumate Memorial Foundation
Honoring Ella's memory by making our community safer and supporting families in need.
Ella's Legacy Lives On
The Gabriella Shumate Memorial Foundation was established in 2011, following the tragic loss of Ella Shumate in a drunk driving accident. In the face of unimaginable grief, Ella's family chose to honor her memory by creating something positive and lasting.
Founded by Dacia and Devin Shumate, the foundation represents a commitment to turning tragedy into hope and action.
Based in Lexington, South Carolina, we work to promote safe driving awareness while simultaneously bringing joy to families facing financial hardships in our community.
From left to right: Angel DelPriore, Devin Shumate, Dacia Shumate, Kristin Truex
Our Mission
To honor Gabriella Shumate's memory by promoting safe and responsible driving practices, while providing meaningful support to families in need within our community. Through awareness, education, and compassionate action, we strive to prevent tragedies and spread hope.
"The Shumate's have turned this tragedy into forgiveness, into compassion, into larger life lessons, so Ella's legacy to me is just profound and it's impacting our entire school campus"
"A nonprofit organization created to improve the lives of children in the community by helping schools build playgrounds and providing basic necessities for children in need"
What We Do
Safe Driving Advocacy
We work to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and promote safe driving habits throughout our community. Through education and advocacy, we aim to prevent other families from experiencing the loss we endured.
Supporting Families in Need
We partner with local elementary schools to identify and support financially unstable families. Our flagship program, Ella's Stuff a Stocking, provides gifts and necessities to families during the holiday season, bringing joy when it's needed most.
Meet the Founders
Devin & Dacia Shumate
Devin and Dacia Shumate founded The Gabriella Shumate Memorial Foundation in 2011 to honor the memory of Ella Shumate and to create positive change in their community. Their dedication has touched countless lives throughout Columbia, South Carolina.
Devin serves as a social studies teacher at River Bluff High School, where he continues to inspire young minds daily. Together, Devin and Dacia channel their personal tragedy into meaningful action, ensuring that Ella's legacy lives on through every family helped and every life saved through safe driving awareness.
Our Team
Join Us in Making a Difference
Help us continue Ella's legacy through your support and involvement.
Get Involved