Frank and Ann Conroy Fund for the Joy of Music
Est. 2019 as a donor advised fund by siblings, Theresa, Edward, Michael, and Kathleen, in memory of their parents, Frank and Ann.
Theresa Conroy first became familiar with the Valley Community Foundation (VCF) during her tenure as state representative. "That's when I found out what having a permanent endowment like the Foundation does for the community," Theresa said.
When Frank and Ann Conroy passed away within 100 days of each other during 2019, Theresa approached the staff at VCF to discuss a way to honor and memorialize her parents. "They made it so easy for me when I decided what I wanted the fund to do. My mother was also aware of my intent to establish this fund before she passed and was happy with my decision."
With the understanding of VCF, combined with knowing what was important to her parents Theresa was inspired to create the Frank and Ann Conroy Fund for the Joy of Music. "My mother came from an orphanage and always said that if she won the lottery, she would set up a fund to benefit children," Theresa said. "She felt that music could make such a difference in a child's life.
Given her parents' level of involvement in the Seymour community, Theresa felt there would be no better way to honor their memory than to establish a fund to support music and Seymour! Through this fund, she hopes to support activities such as the school music program to provide necessary tools for students, such as recorders or sheet music. As well as the Town's summer concert series, a favorite of her mom and dad.
"My father was a former first selectman and belonged to many organizations. I could have chosen from any of those groups, but I knew how much music meant to both him and my mother. They recognized that arts programs quickly become at-risk when budgets need to be cut. It is important for this fund to support the school system in order to ensure these valuable programs remain available throughout the district."
She added, "I remember how much they loved this community and, because of them, I genuinely appreciate how important it is to volunteer and give back. I encourage anyone who is thinking about a fund to reach out to VCF President and CEO Sharon Closius and find out how you, too, can create a fund and impact so many lives."
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