This recognition stems from a visit, more than a decade ago, to a Laurel Fifth Grade classroom sparked a connection that would grow into a lasting partnership with global impact.

 

When Erin Huber, Executive Director of Drink Local Drink Tap (DLDT), visited Laurel to share her organization's work bringing clean water to communities in Uganda, she brought a pen pal letter from a young boy named Dennis. Fifth grader Maggie Hatch ’21 was so moved by his story that she went home determined to write him back.

 

That simple exchange sparked something much bigger. Maggie's mother, Karry Hatch, connected with Erin, beginning a relationship that has spanned more than a decade. The Hatch family remains connected to Dennis, and Karry has since traveled to Uganda twice, helping advance DLDT's mission of providing safe water and healthier learning environments for children.

 

Karry and Jonathan will be honored at DLDT's Annual Giving Splash Party on November 12 at Gordon Green.