Our Background

In 1984, the lives of many were changes forever. John Thomas Clark, known to all as Tom, passed away of a heart attack while doing what he loved the most, coaching youth baseball. In the humble town of Kokomo, Indiana, Tom was known by all as "the coach" that every kid wanted to play for. The stature of his icon is obvious now, as the Tom Clark Award is still awarded this day to the player with the best sportsmanship. Now, 23 years later, his presence is still felt. Ironically enough, one of the TCF Board of Directors, who was acquainted here in Cincinnati, was runner up for that award less than 5 years from its origination. Small world we live in! Tom was survived by 3 sons; John, Jim and Joe, daughter Jennifer, wife Carol, sister Teresa, and mother Phyllis. His passion for kids, and for all those around him, has not left us.

Tom Clark's legacy will live on through the kids' lives we change by giving them the opportunity to achieve the success of a college education. Tom was fortunate enough to be educated at the very prestigious Notre Dame University, and Xavier University. Education was a top priority to him in a time where fewer kids went to college. In today's world, a college education is almost a must to keep up with average wages to eventually provide for oneself and eventually a family, when necessary. The TCF is a family-driven foundation, and is run and supported by family, and the Board of Directors. Our 12 Board of Directors and family members help make the decisions of the TCF, and hope to ultimately become one of the most prominent non-profit entities in the city.

The scholarship selection process will be set up to find the right candidates to carry on the scholarship funds. Not only will the process sort through academic achievements, but it will also carry heavy qualitative value. We want to learn about the student, and how the student has been able to improve him/herself despite the adversity that has created their situation. Extra-curricular activities, references, essay questions, background checks, and personal interviews are some of the other screening variables. By the time the scholarships have been awarded, we will be sure that the recipients are Tom Clark worthy of the privilege. We encourage all those visiting the site to refer all qualifying candidates to finish the application provided online. We don't want to leave any stone unturned.