- See how we continue his work
The Defender Who Started It All
The Defender Who Started It All
He earned his nickname in preschool, where his teacher noticed how quickly he stood up for a classmate being bullied. That spirit never faded. As he grew, so did his heart — always watching out for others, always giving more than he had.
In high school, Devon raised funds for children with autism. He volunteered his time, gave selflessly to causes he believed in, and wasn’t afraid to speak up when someone was being mistreated. He lived with courage, compassion, and quiet strength — the kind that changes lives.
Devon graduated from Wyoming Area in 2004. He passed away unexpectedly on December 19, 2017, at just 32 years old. But even in his absence, he continues to move people. He continues to defend.
The Miss Nina Foundation was created in Devon’s memory — to honor the way he lived and to carry forward his mission of standing up for others. This foundation is our promise to make the world a little better, in his name.
Because Devon always believed in helping — and he still inspires us to do the same.
The Heart Behind the Mission
The Heart Behind the Mission
Devon’s Annual Golf Tournament
Swing for a Cause. Play for the kids.
Join us for a day of golf, giving, and good company — all to support keeping kids warm in the winter.
BLUE RIDGE TRAIL GOLF CLUB
Saturday, August 16th 2025
Registration 12:30pm - Shotgun Start 1:30pm
Tournament Details
Tournament Details
Grab your clubs, call your crew, and sign up before spots are gone.
• $125 per player / $500 per foursome
• Putting contest $1000 Prize
• All skill levels welcome
Register Your Team
more tournament info
Or email us directly: register@devonthedefender.org
Your business can make a difference while getting in front of a passionate, local audience.
• Sponsor a hole
• Donate a prize
• Grab a premium sponsor spot (with logo, signs, and shoutouts)
Become a Defender Sponsor
View Sponsor Levels & Perks
Or email us directly: sponsorship@devonthedefender.org
sign up!
Share a Story. Spark a Change.
• A perfect addition to any home or classroom library
• Sparks conversations about kindness, advocacy, and empathy
• Helps provide books and vital resources to children in need
Every purchase helps fund our child welfare efforts — and yes, it's tax deductible.
Why This Book Matters
Bring home a heartfelt children’s book that honors compassion, courage — and one unforgettable bond between a boy and his dog.
Nina’s Adventures is inspired by the true story of Devon Silva and his beloved pet, Nina. When Nina finds herself in a difficult new home, she must discover what it means to stand up for herself — and Devon must decide how far love can go to protect someone who can’t speak for themselves.
It’s more than a book — it’s a message of resilience, empathy, and the power of doing what’s right.
Donate Directly to Support Kids
Buy the Book Now
“Let’s give more kids the confidence they need through access to opportunities for long-term success.”
