To the theater community in Richmond and friends of the Festival of Art at Dogwood Dell: Many of you know Mary Boelt, a former Cultural Arts Supervisor who retired in 2003. Mary recently settled into her new home, but in the early morning of November 2nd, tragedy struck when her house caught fire. Thanks to a brave neighbor, Mary was rescued, but her home, car, and all her belongings were lost in the blaze. Immediate friends and her church community stepped in to find her temporary housing, but Mary still faces the daunting task of rebuilding her life from scratch.

Mary is known for her strength and independence. If she knew we were organizing this fundraiser, she might not approve—but that’s exactly why we’re doing it. Friends help each other in times of need, and right now, Mary needs her community more than ever. Material gifts like household items and clothing are difficult to provide due to her limited space, so we’re asking for financial support to help her get back on her feet.

I’m KERRY Keenan, president of the Friends of Dogwood Dell, and I’ve known Mary since 1997. Along with a group of her friends, I’m managing this fundraiser to help Mary cover immediate needs like housing and essentials. Please join us in supporting Mary as she rebuilds. Any contribution, big or small, will make a real difference. Let’s show Mary how much her community cares.