Maria Donne Dewberry came into the world on May 7, 1977. The first daughter born to Marc and Donna Dewberry and an angel to every person she came in contact with during her short time on earth. Maria was a beautiful, fun, and devoted daughter of god. She was a combination of a tomboy who loved to run, hike, and play in the outdoors as well as a strikingly beautiful young woman who loved to dress up in the latest fashions. Maria's long blond hair was her signature feature that captured the eyes of those around her.       Maria made the people around her feel like they were the "queen of the prom"; she went out of her way to make people feel special. Some of her famous sayings include; "your special, smile for me, and I love you". Maria loved to remind people that they were beautiful and that they truly mattered in this world. She had an unconditional love for everyone and an especially strong love for children in need. Maria was attending college to become a social worker, her desire to help abused and neglected children encompassed all her being. Her ultimate goal to give them a safe haven from the pain they suffered.       During her teenage years she volunteered for many non-profit organizations. She spent her summers at The Winter Park, Florida Summer Camp devoting her time to these children and their activities. In 1994 her church had a youth conference in which the youth had the opportunity to work with the Special Olympics. Maria and her best friend were assigned to a group of three young boy's ages 8 and 9, Maria quickly developed a special bond with 8 year old Tremaine, she stood on the side lines cheering ever so loudly for him as he ran his race. After he crossed the finish line he ran into Maria's outstretched arms and received her extensive praise and love for his hard work and dedication. In 1996, Maria volunteered at The Orlando Coalition for the Homeless Day Care Center, that Christmas she brought each child a Christmas stocking full of goodies.       Maria continued to work with children up until the time of her passing in May of 2000 at the age of 22. She continues to touch lives with her amazing spirit that lives on through her family, friends, and the millions of children that will be helped with the goals of the foundation. With each child we help we can see Maria's smiling face as she kneels down to hug them. -Melissa Parente Baldwin Maria's Best Friend Board member 2001-2003