New Fund Provides Therapeutic Healing Through Music and Gardening Programs

May 18, 2009: Throughout his life, music impresario Don Doughty believed anything was possible. His gusto for life, his enjoyment of people, and his passion for music defined him. A graduate of Peabody Institute with a Master’s Degree in Choral Conducting, he developed a widely-acclaimed choral program at Wootton High School in Rockville, founded and directed the Gaithersburg Community Chorus, directed the Hood College Choral Program, was a board member of and implemented master classes with members of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and as a volunteer developed and helped to implement a sight reading program for the Frederick Children’s Chorus. He even found time in his busy life to perform at area nursing homes where he saw firsthand how music could improve the emotional wellbeing of patients.

Don’s wife, Linda Moran, shared his appreciation and interest in music, and during their marriage, he came to share her love of gardens and gardening. Together they restored the renowned garden of the late Mrs. Mott Howard, happily bringing her lovely garden back to life. Together they appreciated the calming and restorative balance that music and gardening brought to their lives.

During their life together, Linda and Don often spoke of establishing a fund at The Community Foundation of Frederick County, somehow combining both their musical and gardening interests to help others. Sadly, however, Don died in December, 2007, before they could make their charitable dreams a reality. As long-time supporters of the Community Foundation’s mission, Linda pursued their quest to help others through philanthropy, and with the guidance of the Community Foundation, recently established The Don Doughty and Linda Moran Fund.

“Don wanted to do something to provide for music in the community. I want people to benefit from the therapeutic aspects of both gardening and music. This Fund will provide grants to support music and gardening programs and classes, especially with a therapeutic purpose, that serve as vehicles for spiritual enhancement, which became such a reality for us,” said Linda.

Tailoring the unique charitable dreams of generous donors who wish to make a difference in their community is exactly what the Community Foundation has been doing since 1986. The more than 600 funds the Community Foundation holds create positive and lasting change by providing grants and scholarships benefiting any number of causes throughout Frederick County. As a philanthropic leader, the Community Foundation has given back more than $19 million.

Those who wish to make a difference in the lives of others may make a secure, online donation to The Don Doughty and Linda Moran Fund.  To do so, click here. Checks made payable to The Community Foundation of Frederick County with the Fund’s name inserted in the memo line, may be mailed to 312 East Church Street, Frederick, Maryland, 21701. All contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. For additional information about the Community Foundation, call 301.695.7660.