Remembering Steven E. Shepherd Sr.
Born on June 20, 1960, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Steven E. Shepherd Sr. was a true son of the westside. Known as "Yogi" to those close to him, he attended Shortridge High School and quickly gained recognition throughout the city for his remarkable charisma and unmatched shooting abilities on the basketball court. Yogi’s magnetic personality and vibrant spirit made him a local legend—not just for his athletic skill, but for his warmth, humor, and generosity.
Steven’s life, however, was deeply impacted by the devastating drug epidemic. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained a loving and devoted family man, raising seven children: Shane, Sharan, Tequila, Steven Jr., Lindsay, Cameron, and Lauren. Married to Sherri Shepherd for over 20 years, Steven was a beacon of light to his family, friends, and community. Known for his selflessness, he would give the clothes off his back to someone in need and never met a stranger. If Steven had a resource or knowledge that could help someone, he offered it without hesitation.
Sadly, Steven’s life was cut short in June 2017 due to the effects of drug addiction, leaving behind the potential he was never able to fully realize. In honor of his memory and his enduring legacy of kindness and resilience, the Steven E. Shepherd Community Foundation was established. This foundation is dedicated to carrying on his legacy by empowering young men and boys in the community to overcome their own challenges, just as he would have wanted. Through every program and every life touched, Steven’s light continues to shine, reminding us of the power of giving and the importance of lifting each other up.
Our Mission to Serve the Community
The Steven E. Shepherd Community Foundation is committed to empowering underserved men and young boys on the westside of Indianapolis to overcome the challenges they face and realize their full potential. Our mission is to serve as a bridge, connecting individuals with the resources, guidance, and support networks that make growth possible. We believe that by fostering a strong foundation of community and opportunity, we can help young men and boys take charge of their futures, breaking cycles of adversity and building paths to personal and professional success.
Our dedication to this mission is deeply personal and guided by genuine care for those we serve. We understand the power of a supportive community, which is why we aim to build a network that offers not only immediate intervention but also long-term mentorship and encouragement. For us, creating change is more than just providing resources; it’s about investing in lives and empowering individuals to become resilient, self-sustaining members of our community.
At the core of our work is the belief that saving our community takes all of us, working together with compassion and intention. The foundation’s mission is rooted in our namesake’s legacy of kindness and unwavering support for others, and we strive to honor that legacy every day. Through collaboration with local organizations and dedicated community members, we are committed to making a lasting impact—one that reflects the strength, unity, and resilience of the community we call home.