An Ozark nonprofit organization dedicated to helping at-risk teens succeed

OZARK, Mo. (KY3)—For one local mom, turning devastation into inspiration means giving back this Charity Tuesday.

Shelly Larrick’s son Chandler Sweeney was killed nearly four years ago in his Springfield home.

“I feel like I have to accept his death and make something good out of it. I have to,” she said.

Then the 23-year-old guy was shot. He was an innocent bystander during the conversation between his roommate, Ricky Rose, and the shooter, Paul Morales. Morales was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole.

“Ever since it happened, there’s been a fire burning in my soul. It was not only about justice. I knew I would be asked to do something else,” she said

For Larrick, this means turning her devastation into a search for ways to participate. Shortly after her son was killed, she started the Do Better Be Better scholarship fund to honor his memory.

“The first year I gave a scholarship to Kickapoo. I just knew these kids needed hope,” she said.

Larik wanted to do more, so she looked for other ways to help troubled teens.

“A family friend asked me if I wanted to talk to at-risk youth. I didn’t even know what that meant. But I was taught that you say yes to a service job,” she said. “I went and talked to those at-risk youth. It was here that I felt Chandler lead me there. These are children whose lives will be greatly disrupted. Part of that devastation may force them to make choices like the man who killed my son.”

The Do Better Be Better Foundation launched its nonprofit on Tuesday to help with its mission to empower at-risk youth. The Foundation will continue to offer scholarships, mentorship and access to essential resources.

“Your community will not give up on you. There is a second chance. You can do better and get better every day,” she said.

If you want to learn about the Do Better Be Better Foundation, click here HERE.

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