George Bell was the first president of the Mundelein High School Board and was instrumental in developing the new school district when it split from Libertyville in 1960.  He was Fremont Township Supervisor for over 25 years and was a Lake County Board Member for two terms, serving as Lake County Forest Preserve President for part of that time.  He was instrumental in purchasing Countryside Golf Course and Brae Loch Golf Course and making them part of the Lake County Forest Preserve District holdings.

Upon his passing in 1996, a memorial fund was set up by his family to help build a memorial at Countryside Golf Course to honor his service to the community and the Forest Preserve District.  After the completion of the project, donors continued to contribute to the fund.  The Bell family decided to use this money to develop the Golf First Program to promote the game that was George's passion, and one he felt taught confidence, patience, respect, and sportsmanship.

Sixteen years later, the George Bell Youth Opportunity Fund continues its work to provide young people the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of golf, develop personal skills and gain knowledge of the integrity and character associated with good sportsmanship.