My husband, already knowing my heart, was quiet. Then he smiled. My attorney nodded knowingly and said, “I have just the vehicle for your needs — it’s the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.” I smiled back, grateful. “This is a very good fit,” he added.
I’ve never believed in coincidences. I believe everything in life unfolds according to a larger plan. We make choices that shape our path, but I’ve always taken comfort in the idea that things happen for a reason. And I believe there’s a reason the Community Foundation found its way into my life.
For over 50 years, the Community Foundation’s transformative grantmaking and scholarships have helped close the community’s opportunity gaps. It does this by connecting donors to a network of trusted nonprofit partners working on the front lines of the community’s greatest needs. Knowing my gift would join that continuum of impact reaffirmed my decision.
Through my years with the Palm Beach Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), I met one of the most delightful women I’ve ever known — Mrs. LaRue Dahlberg. A five-foot-tall firecracker and former teacher, LaRue was the kind of woman who, with kindness and grace, took no prisoners. We took to each other like peas and carrots, and our friendship blossomed through shared work on behalf of veterans and students entering the military.
I was constantly amazed by her nonstop schedule of charitable activities — it exhausted me just hearing about her day! But what inspired me most was learning that she had created a memorial scholarship in honor of her son, who was tragically killed.
I didn’t know the details of how she managed it all until one quiet morning, when I stumbled upon “A Chance Meeting…” — LaRue’s story, which was shared on the Community Foundation’s website. I shook my head in joyful disbelief. My plan was taking shape.
Following LaRue’s example and guided by my lifelong reverence for the military and our country, I decided to establish a scholarship at the Community Foundation to support JROTC cadets.
These young men and women who will one day serve our nation deserve encouragement and assistance — and the thought of helping them brings me immense joy. I had previously worked on JROTC scholarships in Lake Worth Beach through DAR, so this felt like a natural and meaningful next step.
Thanks to the expertise of the Community Foundation, my vision is now coming to life.
As I begin this journey, I know a gentle, guiding hand has led me here. In many ways, I’ve become part of LaRue’s plan — and I intend to carry forward her same principles, tenacious spirit, and dedication to making a difference in the lives of young people.
I’m just one person. I’m not famous, and my name won’t appear on a hospital wing. But my five-year plan for this scholarship will take root and grow. Each of us, in our own way, has the power to change someone’s life. LaRue Dahlberg changed mine.
A coincidence? No, part of a plan.
