2026 Spring Appeal

In this edition of our spring newsletter, we pay homage to the beloved Marion Taylor, who recently passed away. 

Marion’s vision and passion for the Mary Lyon Foundation continue to inspire us and shape our future. As one former board member shared, “Marion was a beacon of light, and her warmth and love for the Foundation and community always shone through.”   

The vision of Marion Taylor and our retired founder, Susan Samoriski, mirrors that of Mary Lyon herself, and it has given us the fortitude to ensure that our programs are making meaningful change in our community. Their inspiring commitment helped shape the Foundation into what it is today and has encouraged ongoing support from donors like you.   

Your generosity enables the students that we serve to grow and thrive.  In this newsletter, we share more about future drivers and the road to licensure, leadership conferences for student council members, babysitting certification, and childcare during vacation weeks.    

The programs we fund support students’ developmental milestones as they become young adults. In West County, obtaining a driver’s license is necessary, and the cost is extraordinary. By supporting driver education, we are opening doors for students to find employment and attend community college. Participating in a leadership conference gives students the skills and confidence to succeed as leaders in their community and in their pursuit of post-secondary education. Obtaining a babysitting certification affords the opportunity to find paying weekend jobs and develop a love of working with children, which might lead a student to pursue a career in childcare or education. Helping a working family during a school vacation week ensures children receive the love and care they need in a safe environment, so their parents can go to work without worry.   

The community’s generosity powers the Mary Lyon Foundation today. Your support helps us create lasting change for children, educators, and families.  

Your warmth and love for the Franklin County community shine through each time you support the Foundation, just as Marion’s did. Please consider making the Foundation your philanthropic priority this spring, and set up a recurring monthly donation to deepen your impact.