Every conversation with the legendary Kitty DeGree remains etched in my memory, she was a hero to me. Each interaction felt like a profound life lesson, giving me knowledge and guidance that I will carry with me forever. In honor of her, I will share one of those lessons.
While working at a local nonprofit, Kitty DeGree served on our Board of Directors. On occasion, Mrs. DeGree would need a ride to board meetings or sometimes medical appointments. I was always so excited when I got to play taxi, our next trip would be to a medical appointment.
When I arrived at her home to start our trip my excitement turned into concern because I could see that she was in extreme pain. She never said anything, but I could see sporadic tears running down her cheeks. Even still, she never gave her pain center stage she remained the star of the show and only spoke about all the amazing people in our community. It was almost as if, recognizing the kindness of others was powerful medicine.
We arrived at the doctor's office and as we waited, the silent tears started again. This time she spoke of one person in particular, Joe Holyfield. She mentioned all the wonderful things he had accomplished in our community and how much he cared about others. The tears stopped again.
My take, in any circumstance, no matter how difficult, you can direct your thoughts to something positive and bigger than the problem.
Mrs. DeGree was a philanthropist that was passionate about women's health and education. Through The Kitty DeGree Foundation, these important issues remain in the forefront, and with a recent donation to one of our favorite local museums her legacy lives on!
The Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum received a major boost towards the construction and educational programming of a new museum from one of this area’s most respected philanthropic organizations.
The donation of $400,000 was made on July 28, 2023, by the Remembering Her-The Kitty DeGree Foundation. “Today’s donation is going to make a positive difference in the lives and educational experiences of thousands of children now, and for many years to come,” said Children’s Museum Director Melissa Saye. “It is also an investment in our community and shows that our area understands the importance of expanding learning opportunities for our children.”
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| Back Row Left to Right: Melissa Saye, Children's Museum Director, Anne Lockhart and John Cameron Kitty DeGree Foundation Board of Directors |
The Foundation was established approximately 20 years ago by local businesswoman Kitty DeGree and the Kitty DeGree Foundation board of directors has continued her legacy of helping community programs and services. Currently, John Cameron and Anne Lockhart represent the board, with specific gratitude and recognition for the caring and dedication of its former president and vice president, Cindy Rogers and Scottie Traylor, who both recently passed away.
“Cindy, John, Scottie, and I have been so very excited to represent Kitty DeGree’s love of our community in a project of this magnitude and importance—especially because this museum plays such an important part in the lives of children and families in this region,” said Anne Lockhart.
Fundraising for the new educational anchor is a key focus in the upcoming months. Development Director Dawn Landry said “Our children are our most precious commodity. This facility is going to be such a source of pride for our community.
Opportunities for businesses and families to also participate and donate to the museum can be found at nelcm.org or by contacting Dawn Landry at nelcm3@gmail.com or 318-361-9611.
Don't miss out on all the Fall fun with Skeletons on Tower! The Children's Museum is partnering with ARCO, A Community Resource to bring our community a spooktacular time! This is an important fundraiser for both nonprofit organizations,
