Honoring a Legacy of Leadership: The Coach Patterson Charitable Foundation

Few people leave the kind of lasting impact that Coach Pat Patterson did in the Oil City community. As an educator, coach, and mentor, his influence extended far beyond the classroom and the field—he helped shape the character, discipline, and futures of countless students and athletes. In 2024, that legacy was cemented through the creation of the Coach Patterson Charitable Foundation, a field-of-interest fund established in his memory by Dr. David McFadden (Class of 1980), with major contributions from Coach Pat’s sons, Mike and Dan Patterson. This fund isn’t just a tribute—it’s a call to action. It was designed to continue Coach Patterson’s unwavering commitment to youth development, athletic excellence, and leadership rooted in integrity and perseverance. “If it’s to be, it’s up to me.” – Coach Pat That quote, shared often by Coach Patterson himself, speaks to his belief in personal responsibility and potential. It’s now the guiding spirit behind this fund, serving as a daily reminder that effort, grit, and determination pave the way to success.

What the Fund Supports

The Coach Patterson Charitable Foundation is focused on advancing initiatives that:

• Promote individual growth and achievement in youth
• Enhance the experience and performance of student athletes
• Provide meaningful mentorship and outreach to students in need
• Recognize excellence both on and off the field

While the fund is still in its early stages, its vision is clear. It aims to support impactful programming within the Oil City School District, from leadership workshops and athletic development to peer mentoring and academic enrichment. The fund’s design ensures that future generations of Oil City students can grow not only as athletes, but as leaders, teammates, and confident individuals ready to make a difference. Coach Patterson was known for teaching more than the fundamentals of sports—he emphasized sportsmanship, respect, hard work, and a sense of community responsibility. Those values will be echoed in every initiative the fund supports.

Who Benefits?

The primary beneficiaries of this fund are the students and student athletes of the Oil City School District. While the fund has yet to make its first formal grant, the groundwork has been laid for a powerful and enduring impact. Future initiatives may include:

• Student leadership development retreats
• Scholarships for athletes pursuing higher education
• Funding for new equipment or uniforms
• Support for underserved youth looking to participate in sports programs
• Partnerships with local mentors, alumni, and coaches to provide lasting guidance

Each initiative will be guided by the values Coach Pat held dear—commitment, teamwork, and a belief in the potential of every young person.

Why Coach Patterson’s Legacy Matters

Coach Pat wasn’t just a coach—he was a mentor, a motivator, and a role model. His ability to connect with students, instill confidence, and push them to do their best left a mark that’s still felt today by generations of Oil City families. Through this fund, his legacy will be more than just a memory. It becomes a movement—one that empowers students, strengthens school pride, and champions excellence in everything from athletics to academics. At a time when students face increasing pressure and uncertainty, having access to mentorship and resources rooted in a strong legacy of leadership can make all the difference.

How You Can Help

Want to help extend the impact of Coach Patterson’s life and legacy?

• Donate online at bbcf.org
• Mail a check to Bridge Builders Community Foundations
• Contact BBCF at 814-677-8687 for more information

Your gift helps ensure that Coach Pat’s belief in every student continues to uplift and inspire the next generation. This fund is more than just a charitable effort—it’s a commitment to keeping Coach Patterson’s influence alive through meaningful, character-shaping experiences for the youth of Oil City.   Stay tuned to learn more about the fund’s first grant initiatives and how you can be part of honoring one of Oil City’s most enduring legacies.