The ROB Foundation: Supporting Local Students Who Have Lost a Parent

Fort Mill is a community that truly comes together in times of need, and the ROB Foundation is a perfect example of this spirit. Founded in memory of Rob Prestininzi, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in 2021, the foundation provides scholarships to students who have lost a parent or guardian. Rob’s friends, Michael and Kory Pennington, created the foundation after witnessing the grief and challenges faced by Rob’s wife, Briana, and their two young sons. Kory, who lost her own father at a young age, understands the impact firsthand.

The ROB Foundation Scholarship helps high school seniors and college students in North and South Carolina who have lost a parent or guardian. The foundation aims to recognize their resilience and support their educational goals. In 2024, they awarded ten $1,000 scholarships, and their goal is to award ten $2,500 scholarships in 2025! The application period runs from March 1st to April 30th of this year.

Mark your calendars! On April 13th, 2025, the ROB Foundation will host Boots & Brews at The Print Shop in Fort Mill from 12:00 to 3:00pm. This fun community event features delicious food, music, drinks, face painting, caricature artists, a silent auction, and more - all to raise funds for the scholarship program. Tickets are $35 for adults and $20 for kids (ages 3-12), and include a plate of food, a drink, and access to the fun activities. Come join us for a great time while supporting local students who’ve overcome incredible adversity! 

For more details or sponsorship opportunities, contact Kory Pennington at kory@robfoundation.org.