Our Mission Statement
Our mission is to honor the memory of our beloved brother and son, Cooper, by empowering student-athletes and underserved youth in St. Johns County.
Through scholarships, charitable giving, and community partnerships, we strive to expand access to educational and athletic opportunities while fostering character, resilience, confidence, and hope for the future.
Above all, we strive to carry Cooper’s spirit forward by reminding everyone to “PLAY LIKE COOP”.
Cooper Lyles Foundation, Inc.
A Florida 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
EIN: 33-4739285
567 Convex Ln., St. Augustine, FL 32095
EVENTS ~
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
🎟️ Annual Gun Raffle 🎟️
Some guns have a story. This one has a little swagger.
We’re excited to bring back our Annual Gun Raffle in support of The Cooper Lyles Foundation! Thanks to our friends at SK Guns and SK Gives Back, this year’s raffle features the Al Capone Sweetheart, a striking, limited-edition Colt with plenty of old-school style — and we think Cooper would have loved it.
Your raffle ticket not only gives you a chance to win an incredible firearm, but also helps us continue Cooper’s legacy by supporting scholarships for St. Johns County student-athletes and opportunities for local youth.
Ready to take your shot? 🎯
👉 View the firearm, see the official raffle rules, and purchase your tickets
5/6 Night at Jimmy Hula’s
PAST EVENTS ~
The Cooper Lyles Foundation’s 5/6 Night at Jimmy Hula's was an incredible success and a truly meaningful evening for our family and community. We had the honor of meeting this year’s scholarship recipients in person and hearing more about the stories, dreams, and perseverance behind their powerful essays.
From student athletes and scholars to future tradesmen and leaders, each recipient embodied the heart, character, and determination that defined Cooper’s life. It was especially moving to hear the many ways Coop’s legacy continues to impact students both on and off the field.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, supported, and helped make the evening so special. Watching these young adults begin the next chapter of their lives reminds us exactly why the foundation exists — to continue encouraging others to “Play Like Coop” through hard work, compassion, resilience, and heart. Because #56 Still Plays On...
Inaugural “Play Like Coop”
Pre-season Club Lacrosse
Tournament on January 10th, 2026
The Cooper Lyles Foundation is proud to partner with West Augustine Youth Development, supporting the addition of lacrosse to their youth sports program. Event proceeds and donations go directly toward the purchase of essential lacrosse equipment, helping ensure every child has the opportunity to play, learn, and grow through the sport. Because every child deserves a chance to play.
Build the Future ~ PLAY LIKE COOP ~ Make an Impact
Our
Story
The Cooper Lyles Foundation was created in loving memory of Cooper Reese Lyles — a young man whose life was defined by kindness, determination, and a genuine love for others. Cooper approached everything he did with heart, whether on the field, in the classroom, or within his community. He believed in showing up, lifting others, and giving his best no matter the circumstances.
Following Cooper’s passing, his family and community came together with a shared commitment: to ensure that his spirit and values would continue to make a positive impact. What began as a way to honor Cooper’s life has grown into a foundation dedicated to expanding access to opportunities for young people through education, athletics, and community support.
The Foundation’s work centers on supporting youth who demonstrate character, perseverance, and a willingness to lead by example. Through scholarships and partnerships, we aim to remove barriers, encourage personal growth, and help young people pursue their goals — both on and off the field.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple philosophy inspired by Cooper’s life: Play Like Coop. It is more than a phrase — it is a reminder to act with integrity, show compassion, and give your best effort every day. Through this work, Cooper’s legacy lives on in the lives of the students and families we serve.
About The Cooper Lyles Foundation, Inc.
The Cooper Lyles Foundation, Inc. is a Florida 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering student-athletes and underserved youth in St. Johns County through scholarships, charitable giving, and community partnerships.
The Foundation was officially recognized as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions may be tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.
EIN: 33-4739285
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