Dashiell Fund Opens at
 Community Foundation

July 9, 2008: During their lifetimes the late Virginia T. and Thomas R. Dashiell were dedicated to the Frederick community. For over 50 years they lived in Frederick, raising their two children, Thomas M. Dashiell and Tina Dashiell Roth. They felt strongly that the family-friendly environment and the organizations the community provided would guarantee a firm foundation for their children to grow and thrive. Active members of Calvary United Methodist Church, they remained in Frederick even after Mr. Dashiell began working in Washington, DC during the latter part of his career. Sadly, Mr. Dashiell passed away in 1998 after a courageous battle with leukemia, yet Mrs. Dashiell remained grateful for the many services of Frederick Memorial Hospital during his illness.

Only a few years ago when her health began to decline, Mrs. Dashiell decided to move closer to her children, now residing in Virginia. Her love of Frederick and desire to give back did not end, however, when this kind, caring woman passed away last summer. During her lifetime, she thoughtfully considered the long-term financial support of organizations important to her by making a gift through her estate plans to The Community Foundation of Frederick County. Because of her foresight and generosity, the Community Foundation recently established The Thomas R. and Virginia T. Dashiell Memorial Fund to provide additional financial support to Calvary United Methodist Church and Frederick Memorial Hospital. 

The Dashiell’s children both say their parents were compassionate people who dedicated themselves to others. “We know that even though both of them are gone, that The Thomas R. and Virginia T. Dashiell Memorial Fund will continue to provide blessings and hope to others, and they would be pleased.”

Community Foundation President Elizabeth Y. Day said that planned giving is one of the many ways citizens of Frederick County partner with the Community Foundation to create positive and lasting change in the community. Those who make a planned gift to benefit others after their death become members of the Community Foundation’s Cornerstone Society, which currently has over 150 members, Ms. Day said. “Cornerstone Society members are special people who, through their planning, continue to give back to the community well beyond their own lifetimes. What better way to leave a legacy?”

Since 1986, generous citizens have depended upon the credibility and guidance of the Community Foundation to ensure expert stewardship of a planned gift. Because of the trust donors have placed in the Community Foundation, more than $17 million has been returned to the Frederick County community.

To learn more about the Community Foundation’s Cornerstone Society, or to donate to any of its 600+ funds that provide scholarships to students seeking a brighter future through education and grants to area nonprofit organizations serving a variety of needs, call 301.695.7660.