FREDERICK, MD – Jul. 25, 2024: The Edwin and Melanie Hoffman Family Fund, established by the Hoffman’s children in memory of their parents, will provide grants to nonprofit organizations addressing critical needs in Frederick County. This becomes one of more than 800 component funds of The Community Foundation of Frederick County.
Edwin and Melanie relocated to Frederick in the 1960’s and built a life here that was dedicated to education, religion, community sports and civic activities.
Melanie spent her entire career at Frederick County Public Schools, first as a special education teacher and later as a school psychologist and county supervisor of various departments. She was instrumental in establishing the FCPS Crisis Team that supports students and staff following traumatic events. Melanie was active with many organizations including Hood College, Jaycees Wives, the Junior Women’s Club, Middletown Athletics, and the Religious Coalition Cold Weather Shelter, among others.
Edwin was known as a man of strong faith who loved music – marrying the two passions by singing in the church choir. With a degree in chemistry, Edwin served in the Army at Fort Detrick where he started his career in virology. His work included supporting research teams that studied treatments for RSV, Hepatitis, and HIV. Edwin was active in organizations including Boy Scouts of America, Frederick Jaycees, Middletown Valley Athletic Association (MVAA), Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ, and the Religious Coalition for Emergency Human Needs, among others.
“As parents of four active children, they were led to jump in and serve in many places when they saw a need,” says Edwin Hoffman, the couple’s son. “Whether they were experienced at the beginning or not, they gave their time and energy to make their community a better place. It is our hope to help others continue service to the community with the financial support of this fund.”