Hello, I am Kem, and I am raising funds for my cousin, Denyse, because on March 12, 2026, Dee’s Riverside Retreat, a beloved tourist destination in Grafton, Illinois, was hit by a devastating tornado. In a matter of moments, this cherished business suffered major damage, leaving its future uncertain.

Dee’s Riverside Retreat is more than just a business. It is a place where people come to rest, gather, celebrate, and make memories. For many, it has been a welcoming space filled with warmth, beauty, and hospitality. For our family, it is even more personal. Some of you may even remember the outdoor concerts, food trucks, and birthday parties held here. The owner, Denyse Hills, is a hardworking small-business owner, my beloved friend, and my cousin whose heart has always been poured into this retreat and the people it serves.

Although she has commercial property insurance, the policy was underwritten and will not cover the full cost of repairs needed after this storm. Like so many small business owners facing unexpected disaster, she is now left carrying a financial burden far beyond what insurance will pay.

That is why we are asking for help.

Funds raised will go toward repairs, cleanup, restoration, and the critical work needed to reopen Dee’s Riverside Retreat and preserve a place that means so much to so many. Every donation, no matter the size, will help move this recovery forward. And for those who may not be able to give financially, sharing this fundraiser with others would mean the world.

In times like these, community matters most. We are believing that with faith, generosity, and collective support, Dee’s Riverside Retreat can rise again stronger than before.

Thank you for standing with our family during this difficult season and for helping restore a place that has brought joy to so many.

Call to Action

Please donate today to help rebuild Dee’s Riverside Retreat after the March 12, 2026, tornado. Every contribution helps cover urgent repairs and brings this beloved Grafton destination one step closer to reopening. If you cannot give at this time, please share this fundraiser widely with your family, friends, church, and social networks. Your support, prayers, and generosity truly matter.