Welcome to the Richard Miles Decker Memorial Scholarship Funds, a scholarship program established to provide the Falcon Camp experience to children who would most benefit from attending resident camp, but whose families may lack the financial means for them to do so.
The Decker Funds is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, and donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
The Richard Miles Decker Memorial Scholarship Fund was created soon after cancer claimed Rich’s life in 1983. Established by the Decker family, the fund honors their deep appreciation for the profound impact Falcon Camp had on Rich’s life. His years as a camper in the 1960s and a counselor in the early 1970s helped shape his character, confidence, and joy — qualities that defined the person he became.
The Decker Family envisioned a living tribute to Rich that would open the door to those same life-changing experiences for children who might not otherwise have the chance to attend. Through this enduring scholarship endowment, Rich’s spirit continues to thrive each summer at Falcon in the laughter, friendships, and personal growth of every scholarship camper.
The Decker Scholarship Funds are administered by a dedicated volunteer Board of Trustees, all former Falcon campers or counselors, who share lifelong ties to the camp and a passion for its mission. Every contribution to the Fund directly supports scholarships for deserving children; none of the assets are used for capital projects or daily operations.
Prudently invested to ensure sustainability, the endowment has enabled the Fund to award over 100 scholarships since 1985, each one offering a child the opportunity to learn, grow, and discover their best self through the Falcon experience
Current trustees of the Decker Funds are:
David S. Rentz ‘76 – Chair
Morgan L. Curtiss ‘03
Josephine (Rex) Halsor ‘98
Armand B. L. Holmes ‘98
TREASURER:
James Mahen
Emeriti trustees of the Decker Funds are:
Charles A. Beringer ’66
R. Bruce Buzza ’70
Terri “Tree” Eaborn ’74
Fred M. Fargotstein ’73
Steven B. Shechter ’59
Jon C. Volkwein ’66
We’re thrilled that you’re interested in the Richard Miles Decker Memorial Scholarship Funds. Each year, these Funds helps make the Falcon Camp experience possible for deserving campers whose lives will be enriched by the Falcon adventure.
Early Application – Returning Campers Only
Main Application – New & Returning Campers
Scholarships are awarded by a majority vote of the Decker Trustees, with approval from Falcon Camp’s director. In some years, the trustees may choose not to award scholarships if applicants do not meet the program’s criteria.
Recipients will receive detailed next steps, including instructions for completing a standard Falcon Camp registration form.
At the end of their session, each scholarship recipient is asked to write a short reflection letter about their Falcon experience. These letters are shared with the trustees, the Decker family, and supporters who make the scholarships possible.
Questions? Email us at info@deckerscholarshipfunds.org
IMPORTANT FORMS:
Application
Reference form
For more than four decades, the Richard Miles Decker Memorial Scholarship Fund has opened the gates of Falcon Camp to children who might not otherwise have the chance to experience its magic. The friendships, confidence, and joy that come from summers spent on Leesville Lake.
Each scholarship is a tribute to Rich Decker’s life and spirit, honoring the lasting impact that Falcon Camp had on him as a camper and counselor. Your gift ensures that his legacy continues through every scholarship recipient who discovers their best self at camp.
Because the trustees personally cover all administrative expenses, 100% of every donation goes directly to the scholarship endowment, helping deserving campers enjoy a life-changing Falcon experience. Your support strengthens this permanent fund, allowing it to grow and support future generations for years to come.
By Mail
Please make checks payable to The Decker Scholarship Funds and mail to:
Decker Memorial Scholarship Funds
c/o James Mahen
7074 Timbercrest Way
Castle Pines, CO 80108
Online
You can make a donation online via our secure PayPay Giving page.
Every gift helps a child discover confidence, connection, and the joy of belonging at Falcon Camp. On behalf of the Decker family, the trustees, and the many campers whose lives have been transformed, thank you for keeping Rich’s legacy alive.
The Richard Miles Decker Memorial Scholarship Funds is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization under IRS regulations; the tax identification number is 34-1750518. Your gift is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
If you have any questions regarding an application or a donation, we would love to connect with you. Please contact us at info@deckerscholarshipfunds.org
or
Decker Memorial Scholarship Funds
22626 Douglas Road
Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122
If you have questions relating specifically to Falcon Camp, please direct inquiries to info@falconcamp.com or visit their website.
