Director

I’ve long been involved with a wide variety of our non-profit organizations, ad hoc relief efforts, political campaigns and good causes. It all began when I endowed a fund at our Charlotte Community Foundation to honor my late husband, simply so that the legacy of his compassion and kindness would go on. This fund became Hands Up Grants, or just HUG, to help people who were facing a financial need precipitated by an unforeseen expense that would tip the balance of their solvency. They had appealed to either the Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Clinic or The Homeless Coalition for advice and direction. These organizations vet them to determine if this is a one-time need, then help them apply for a HUG grant to cover this expense. It’s often something like a medical bill or car repair. As I got to know the leadership teams of these institutions, they began to teach me how money is raised in the non-profit world. I’ve been bringing people together and fundraising ever since.

My endeavors began with humanitarian causes; medical care for those that cannot afford it and basic needs such as food and shelter, and ad hoc hurricane relief. As time went on, I learned of many other organizations such as The Center for Abuse and Rape Emergencies, Beyond Ourselves Backpack Kidz, Guardian ad Litums, Honor Flights for veterans, Heal Our Harbor for water quality and the environment, YMCA children’s programs, Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens, Florida veterans, School Board candidates, Airport Authority candidates, City Council candidates, as well as state and federal government positions. In addition to matching the donations of others and holding 20 to 30 fundraisers in my home each year, I support their larger events such as galas, by purchasing tables and inviting donors to attend as my guests.

I am honored to be invited to join the board of directors of the Military Heritage Museum. I’m looking forward to contributing to its future success.