The one and only Stan Deen

The Stan Deen Foundation exists to empower vulnerable youth through education and the arts. By partnering with local and national foundations, we seek to improve the quality of life for beneficiaries by investing in their education, artistic abilities, and mental health to build resilient, better informed, and more engaged individuals.


Stan and Nate’s Story

Of all the relationships Stan formed throughout his lifetime, very few were as special as the one with his surrogate son – Nate, who officially changed his name to Nathaniel Deen in March 2018.

Stan Deen helped Nathaniel see that life isn’t about all that you receive, but more about all that you give to others. Stan would often say this quote from HELLO DOLLY… “Money is like manure, it’s no good unless you spread it around encouraging young things to grow.” Nathaniel Deen has established THE STAN DEEN FOUNDATION to not only honor Stan, but to work with and rehabilitate children and teens who have endured tragedy or slipped through the cracks of public education just as he did. Nathaniel is living proof that “all the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.”

Stan and Nate 1987

About the Stan Deen Foundation

THE STAN DEEN FOUNDATION (SDF) is a 501(c)3 organization. Contributions support underserved students realize their potential and pursue their passions. OUR MISSION is to develop underserved students’ potential by teaching them resilience and integrity through the transformative power of education and the arts.  


Fundraising & Events

UPCOMING – July 13, 2025: New Holland Classic Car Show

Join us at New Holland Community Memorial Park in Pennsylvania for a community car show!

Let Us Know You’re Going

April 14, 2025 – CASA PA Annual Conference

Nate Deen, our founder, accepted the illustrious “Champion of the Year” award, from the Pennsylvania chapter of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

Host an Event With SDF

May 12th, 2025 – PA Capitol

The Stan Deen Foundation was honored to visit the PA Capitol, at the invitation of Rep. Nikki Rivera.

Q&A Video Session – ACES and Legislation

May 15, 2025 – Christ’s Homes

Nate had the honor of speaking at his 2nd Christ’s Homes fundraising event for a SOLD OUT audience. This is the orphanage where he spent time as a child, as shown in the film Brave the Dark.

Request Brave the Dark Screening

Current & Upcoming Events

Stay tuned for future events where Nate Deen will be speaking. If you are interested in having Nate speak at your event, submit a request.

Request for Speaking Engagement