Kappa Foundation of Columbia, SC

Empowering Youth. Strengthening Community. The Kappa Foundation of Columbia is dedicated to expanding opportunity for young people across the Midlands. We serve students who face under‑resourced conditions and limited access to academic, social, and economic support.

Through scholarships, mentoring, leadership development, and youth‑enrichment programs, we help students build the skills, confidence, and pathways needed to succeed in college, trade school, careers, and life.

Working alongside families, schools, and community partners, we create programs that uplift our youth and strengthen the communities they call home.

Our mission is simple: open doors, remove barriers, and help every young person reach their full potential.

The Collie E. Rayford Golf Classic

Coach Collie E. Rayford is a pillar of the Midlands community whose impact spans more than four decades of service, mentorship, and leadership. A retired educator, athletic director, and coach, he dedicated 46 years to Richland County School District One, shaping generations of students both academically and athletically.

Beyond the classroom, Coach Rayford extended his commitment to youth development by serving 20 years as Recreation Director for Richland County, creating safe, structured environments where young people could learn, grow, and compete.

Throughout his distinguished career, he mentored countless youth, ensuring they had the guidance and support needed to succeed in school, in sports, and in life.

A devoted family man, community servant, and Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Coach Rayford embodies the values of leadership, service, and achievement. In recognition of his lifetime of impact, the Kappa Foundation of Columbia proudly named its annual scholarship golf tournament The Collie E. Rayford Golf Classic in his honor

Scholarship for High School Seniors

One of our major goals is to assist graduating high school seniors in meeting their financial obligations as they transition into two‑ or four‑year colleges, universities, or accredited trade and technical schools. We fulfill this mission by awarding scholarships each year to deserving students across the Midlands.

The scholarship is a one‑time, non‑renewable $1,000 award presented to a current high school senior who plans to enroll in a two‑ or four‑year degree program or an accredited trade/technical program in the fall of 2026. To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:

*Submit a typed essay (3–5 pages) on the topic: “Achieving My Dreams Through Education”

*Be a graduating senior from a Columbia‑area high school

*Complete and submit the scholarship application

*Provide an official transcript showing a minimum 2.5 GPA

*Attach a copy of an acceptance letter to a two‑ or four‑year college/university or an accredited trade/technical school

*Provide one letter of recommendation from a Teacher and or School Counselor

*Provide one letter of recommendation from a community member