My name is Rylee Carlson. I am a student at Saint Margaret's Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano, CA. My grandmother, Joanie Schaefer, started the MarySue Foundation in 2007. The name “Mary Sue” was formed in honor of my great-grandmother. My Grandma Joanie was a woman of service who dedicated countless hours to her community. She was a consistent driver for “Meals on Wheels,” a board member for “Home Aid,” and the manager of the “Education Foundation” for the Adams County School District 12.

Sadly, my grandmother passed away in 2020. Even though I was still very young, I recall hearing stories about the MarySue Foundation and some of the opportunities it provided for those of lesser means. It was Joanie’s passion project and one of her most cherished causes.

The Foundation was established to provide grants and awards to senior citizens, aiming to supplement the financial burdens many seniors face in maintaining connections with family and friends later in life. The grants were primarily used for travel purposes, allowing seniors to attend “special events” involving family that they would otherwise be unable to attend. Many seniors are in fixed-income situations and cannot afford to attend graduations, weddings, and holidays. Loneliness and isolation are often a constant reality for older citizens, which can lead to despair and a general lack of purpose in an elderly person’s life.

I have spent the last year working to resurrect the “MarySue Foundation.” I hope to carry on my late Grandmother’s legacy through this non-profit organization. Her mantra, till the day she passed, was to “be nice, work hard, and respect everyone.” My intent is that this Foundation will represent all that she was and will continue the work she loved to do.

Rylee Carlson

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

San Juan Capistrano, Ca.