The Sean M. O'Connell Foundation

Our Mission: 

To honor Sean’s life by creating bright futures for kids and adults through volunteer work and charitable donations.

The Sean M. O’Connell Foundation, created in 2023, honors Sean O’Connell, who unexpectedly passed away from cardiac arrest at the young age of 27. This foundation is committed to celebrating Sean’s life by preserving his legacy and championing the charitable causes he passionately supported.

As the oldest of 6 siblings and 21 grandchildren, Sean fully embraced the importance of his leadership role within his family. His dedication to staying connected and caring for the well-being of his family and friends was at the center of his relationships. 

​Sean took big swings in life and made sure his actions were filled with heart and purpose, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him.

The Sean M. O’Connell Foundation is a registered private, not for profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring Sean’s life and investing in charities important to Sean and his family.

Take Big Swings

The Sean M. O’Connell Foundation proudly donates proceeds to these charities, in honor of Sean, who was deeply driven, deeply caring, and a whole lotta fun: By the Hand, Tunnel to Towers, Arthritis Foundation, Silver Birch Ranch and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

By the Hand

By The Hand is a Christ-centered after-school program that takes kids who live in under-resourced neighborhoods by the hand and walks with them from kindergarten through college, loving and nurturing them—mind, body and soul.

Tunnel To Towers Foundation

The mission of the Tunnels to Towers Foundation is to honor the sacrifice of firefighter Stephen Siller who laid down his life to save others on September 11, 2001. We also honor our military and first responders who continue to make the supreme sacrifice of life and limb for our country through a variety of benefits centered on improving the quality of life for them and their families.

Arthritis Foundation

Arthritis Foundation is boldly pursuing a cure for America’s #1 cause of disability while championing the fight to conquer arthritis with life-changing science, resources, advocacy and community connections.

Silver Birch Ranch

Silver Birch Ranch offers a variety of Christian camps year-round and is passionate about being an effective tool for local churches.

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Our researchers and doctors work together to turn laboratory breakthroughs into lifesaving treatments for children from across the United States and around the world.

Golf Outing

The 3rd Annual SMO Foundation Golf Outing and Benefit Dinner  was June 15, 2026.

Thank you to our Sponsors

Thank you for your support of the Sean Michael O’Connell Foundation.

We are no longer accepting donations for 2026.

Please check back in 2027 for future opportunities to support the Foundation.

We are grateful for your generosity and continued support.

With love, The O’Connell Family