The Richard “Rick” Slike Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 2023 at the Clarion County YMCA. The YMCA created the fund with Rick’s wife Susan to honor his life and inspire others.

Throughout life, Rick coached high school track and field, worked as a lifeguard, taught swimming lessons, played softball, enjoyed playing tennis, and working out daily.

To know Rick, was to like Rick. If Rick knew you, he never forgot you. And Rick knew everybody. If he’d see you, even if many years later, he’d immediately grab your hand and shake it or give you a big hug, asking questions all about you and your family while recounting memories of good times together and shared experiences of the past. He was fun to be with and was simply a good guy.

The Richard Slike Memorial Scholarship Fund will give people a chance at a brighter future, inspire healthy lifestyles, and foster healthy connections and friendships in the community through programs and services offered at the YMCA.

The fund will help people with low income or family circumstance that may prevent them from exercise or healthy living opportunities.

Scholarship assistance is available through the Clarion County YMCA. To apply, fill out a scholarship application.  Community members are welcome to apply for a scholarship at any time.