Founded in 2009 by the late Senator J. Frank Deem, this fund continues his incredible legacy of good works and civic service to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens through the work of the Boys and Girls Club of Parkersburg.

Deem was born March 20, 1928 in Harrisville, WV. He was the son of Lyla Matheny and Fulton S. Deem. He was a business man who graduated from Harrisville High School; attended Mountain State Business College, WVU and graduated with a degree in Petroleum Engineering from Marietta College. He owned Frank Deems Market in Harrisville, Frank Deem Chevrolet in St. Marys and was owner and operator of JF Deem Oil and Gas for more than 50 years. Frank believed in serving his state and his country. He served in the US Navy during WWII. Frank was a long time member of the West Virginia Legislature serving in both the House and Senate in every decade from the 1950s to present. He was very proud that he designed and built North Bend Golf Course in Harrisville.