Although childless, the needs of children were always of great importance to Lou and Pat Silvi. Lou was a father-figure to many children and young people he encountered throughout his lifetime. In 1954, the Silvis moved to State College, where Lou began his service at Penn State as the assistant manager of the Nittany Lion Inn. He later managed the Inn and retired from the University in 1980 as assistant to the vice president of business. Lou was well respected throughout the community and was active in many organizations. At Lou's funeral, his friend James Raytek gave the eulogy, in which he mentioned Pat’s address book contained a quote by Henry David Thoreau that read, “The most I can do for my friend is simply to be his friend." Pat and Lou lived by this motto and will be remembered for their generous spirit. This fund is part of Centre Foundation's annual Field of Interest grants process and supports early childhood education programs that improve the health, care, and education of young children.