In addition to raising her three daughters, Madelyn Schaefer has also positively influenced hundreds, if not thousands, of children over the years. Her passion for creating a brighter future for them is what inspired her as a mother, teacher, volunteer, and donor.

Philanthropy was instilled in Madelyn from a young age by both of her parents who generously gave their time and resources. Her mother was particularly active. Madelyn followed in her mother’s footsteps as a teacher and when her three daughters were grown, she volunteered at several local elementary schools and child-focused nonprofit organizations. Today, as a CFAAC fundholder, Madelyn wholeheartedly supports programs that champion education and youth through her donations.

“Some of the organizations that I give to are ones that my parents gave to way back when,” said Madelyn. “However, I’ve always looked to helping the younger population. Most of my money goes to organizations that do things for children so we can get them off to a good start."

Madelyn relies on CFAAC to help her explore her giving choices and believes that community foundations are important resources for communities. “I absolutely think community foundations are essential,” she said. “They bring together people who don’t normally interact with each other and they make people aware of things that they have no background on. With the Community Foundation, I can get input, I can get information, I can talk to people who have been involved with these organizations.”

Amazed by CFAAC’s growth over the past 26 years, Madelyn recalls being recruited as its bookkeeper by founder Carol Thompson when it was just a small group meeting at someone’s house. “I was happy to be able to help, but we were really small,” she said.

She worked for CFAAC for three years and then remained involved as a fundholder, committee member, and an Anne Arundel Women Giving Together member. Today, Madelyn continues to pave the way to ensure Anne Arundel County’s children have a hopeful future through her generous donations from the Schaefer Family Fund.