The Lutzie 43 Foundation was established in loving memory of Philip Lutzenkirchen, shortly after his death in 2014. The objective of the Foundation is to pass on Philip’s many remarkable characteristics in terms of community service, leadership, and service to others. The Foundation’s motto for young students and athletes is to “Live like Lutz, Love like Lutz, and Learn from Lutz,” reflecting our desire to help others live out the many positive character attributes that Philip displayed, while learning from the circumstances that led to his death. The Lutzie 43 Foundation aims to develop the character of young people and their influencers by focusing on leadership, charity, compassion, mentorship, hard work, honesty and faith through education and real world application. We are involved in a variety of initiatives targeted to educate young people on character development issues, as well as special projects and events consistent with Philip’s focus on giving back in the communities in which he lived. A central focus of the Foundation is the development and distribution of “43 Lessons to Legacy,” a curriculum focused on educating young people on positive character attributes. The curriculum, currently being piloted in a number of high schools across the country, is designed to be used by coaches, mentors, and other group leaders with middle school, high school, and college students. It consists of daily lessons focused on key character words. Each lesson includes definitions and quotes, along with a story relating the character word to everyday life. We also include suggested actions for the student and leader associated with each word. The curriculum is designed to be flexible to be used in many forums, from one day events to off-season (or in season) programs. Participants in the program will be eligible to pursue “Lutzie Scholarships” rewarding individuals displaying outstanding character in their communities. We intend to complete the pilot programs during the fall 2015, and going “live” in early 2016. In addition to the core curriculum and scholarship program, the Foundation will continue to be selectively involved in various projects and programs, including its annual “13 Can Make a Difference” food drive in Philip’s home community of Cobb County Georgia, the Lutzie 43 Road Race—Powered by FCA, and various other community events and projects. Among our future plans are to re-establish a spring-time prom for special needs children in the Cobb County and nearby communities in the spring of 2016. Mike Lutzenkirchen, Philip’s father and Executive Director of the Foundation, continues to spread the word through his honest and courageous discussion of Philip’s life: “Philip’s Legacy…What Legacy Are You Leaving?” Mike has spoken to over 100 schools, churches, and other organizations on the importance of good character and decision making.
