The Saratoga Palio

The Melanie Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 2006 to honor the life and legacy of Melanie Merola O’Donnell, whose career and values reflected compassion, generosity, respect, and honesty. Its mission is to foster support for mental health and help prepare the next generation of professionals in the field. Since 2009, the Foundation has awarded scholarships to graduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in mental health disciplines.

Its annual $2,500 scholarship supports eligible students enrolled in accredited U. S. programs, with recipients selected in part for their involvement in volunteer, research, extracurricular, or career-related activities.

The Foundation also shares past recipients’ achievements and encourages awardees to use their education to serve communities. In addition to its scholarship program, the organization has supported local nonprofit groups through proceeds from the Saratoga Palio, contributing to community services such as food assistance, immigrant advocacy, senior support, housing, and family mental health programs. Through these efforts, The Melanie Foundation continues Melanie’s commitment to helping people affected by mental illness and strengthening communities