Shyan’s commitment to his community is rooted in his own experiences and the desire to offer opportunities he wished were available to him as a youth. This has led to significant contributions in his hometown of Federal Way, WA and beyond, particularly in enhancing the lives of young people. His community work is primarily channeled through his nonprofit, The Shyan Selah Foundation (SSF), which focuses on empowering youth and young adults.

Most recently, SSF has joined forces with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources to launch the Connect to Nature program, which encourages young people, especially those from marginalized communities, to engage with the natural environment. This initiative includes activities like nature retreats, educational field trips, and gardening, aiming to foster a connection to nature that supports mental, emotional, and physical well-being​​.

The Artist Workshop, another major initiative by SSF, partnered in 2022 with the Washington State Department of Commerce. This program provides comprehensive training in the creative arts, offering young people insights into the entertainment industry, along with practical skills in music, film, and digital media. Workshops feature various professionals in these fields as panelists who engage directly with participants. This program is supported by local government and community leaders and aims to create pathways for economic empowerment and career development in the arts​. Its counterpart, The Athlete Workshop, is conducted in the same manner for young aspiring athletes who are guided by a panel of former athletes, coaches, managers, lawyers, and more to speak about all aspects of professional athletics.

Along with his work with The Shyan Selah Foundation, Shyan has also served on the board of the Maxim Mimms Academy for Suspended and Expelled Youth, the King Awards along with descendants of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and as the Education Chair for the Seattle/King County NAACP.

Past and present SSF Partners and Program Supporters Include: