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K.L. Shirk Memorial Fund for Human Relations

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Kenelm L. Shirk, Jr. was born and raised in a family that was dedicated to public service. His namesake, the late K.L. Shirk Sr., had served as district attorney and a city commissioner.  K.L. Shirk Jr. was a 1940 graduate of McCaskey High School, and he went on to receive a bachelor’s degree from Washington & Lee University in 1943 and his law degree from Dickinson School of Law 1948.

K.L. Shirk, Jr. was involved in the Young Republicans organization, rising through party ranks and eventually winning the chairmanship, a position he would hold for seven years.  To those who elected him, Shirk said: “This is the highest civic challenge in Lancaster County. Serving all the people through government offers the greatest opportunity to serve one’s fellow man.”  Shirk would remain a respected political leader and is recalled fondly as a kind-hearted man who knew how to get a job done.

The K.L. Shirk Memorial Fund for Human Relations was established in support of community activities to foster human relations, connect and educate community members, and foster understanding among Lancaster County residents. This fund has carried on his legacy of public service that strengthens community through supporting events, lectures, educational programs, and other programs that foster understanding and connection on race, gender, class, disability, and culture.

The Patrick Kenney Jr. Memorial Education Fund, in combination with the K.L. Shirk Memorial Fund for Human Relations, has supported projects including:

  • Franklin & Marshall hosting the Lancaster Arab & Islamic Arts Festival
  • LancasterHistory documenting oral history of Black, Jewish, and immigrant families in the 7th Ward of the City
  • YWCA’s work to expand capacity of local racial justice trainer.
  • Filming and community discussions of a Creek Don’t Rise, exploring how people with vast difference make Lancaster home
  • Parish Resource Center’s medical debt relief efforts and community learning series on gaps in healthcare

… and many more.

… and many more.