In Honor of Shannon Melendi.
Protecting Futures.
Empowering Young Women.

Now serving the Miami area, with plans to expand nationally.

In 1994, 19-year-old Shannon Melendi—a vibrant Emory University sophomore from Miami and standout soccer player—was kidnapped, raped, and murdered while working at a Georgia softball complex. Her tragic disappearance shook her community and the nation. In her memory, we established The Shannon Melendi Foundation.

Our mission is to empower young women with the knowledge and tools to navigate adulthood safely, aiming to prevent such tragedies through education, awareness, and proactive safety measures.​

Shannon Melendi in her senior year in high school.

Donate

Support our mission to educate and protect young women.

Shannon's sister Monique Melendi-Benton, Shannon's father Luis Melendi beside her, and more individuals in the background.

Book an Assembly

Bring our safety program to your school or community.

Two women standing with arms raised near a lake, surrounded by trees, at sunset.

Learn Safety Tips

Equip yourself with strategies to stay safe.

“Many are called, few are chosen. Shannon chose to answer the call. We ask that you do the same.”

— Angel Menendez, Shannon’s former coach and founder of the Foundation