ROCHELLE — The Rochelle Area Community Foundation is honored to announce the creation of the John Bearrows Family Endowment in Memory of Denise Halsey Moore, a new donor-advised fund established by Dina and John Bearrows and their family. This meaningful fund pays tribute to a remarkable woman whose life was defined by compassion, purpose, and an unwavering dedication to children and education.

Denise Halsey Moore was a proud Rochelle native, graduating with the Class of 1995 from Rochelle Township High School. Her love of learning led her to Florida Atlantic University and later to North Carolina State University, where she earned her master’s degree. As a National Board-Certified Teacher, Denise most recently taught at Banks Road Elementary School. Her mission in life was clear: to educate, nurture, and inspire young minds.

Though Denise passed away far too soon at the age of 39, her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched — and now, through this endowment.

"Denise had a calling,” John Bearrows said. “She believed in every child’s potential and gave her whole heart to their growth. This fund is a way to continue that passion and ensure her impact is felt for generations to come.”

Rather than create another scholarship— o ne already exists at RTHS in her name — the Bearrows family chose to build something different. The John Bearrows Family Endowment in Memory of Denise Halsey Moore will help meet meaningful and evolving needs in the greater Rochelle area. From youth programs and educational initiatives to opportunities that help children thrive, the family will thoughtfully recommend grants from the fund based on where their hearts — and Denise’s legacy — lead them.

“This is more than a memorial. It is a continuation of Denise’s purpose,” Emily Anaya, RACF executive director, said. “Endowments like this are rooted in love and vision. They begin as acorns, but with nurturing and community support, they grow into something lasting. RACF is honored to help steward this legacy.”

To support the fund, the Bearrows family invites the public to attend a special book signing event for My Life — John Bearrows’ personal memoir — on Wednesday, June 25, from 5-7 p.m. at Luna in Rochelle. Light refreshments will be served, and all proceeds from the event and book sales will directly support the endowment fund.

How to give: Anyone can contribute to the fund and help grow its impact. Visit www.rochellefoundation.org, click “Donate,” scroll down to the fund, and give online.  Mail a check to: RACF, PO Box 74, Rochelle, IL 61068 (Please make checks payable to RACF with John Bearrows Family Endowment Fund in the memo line.)

Your gift—no matter the size—keeps funding local and helps grow this endowment into a permanent source of support for causes that mattered deeply to Denise.

About RACF: The Rochelle Area Community Foundation connects generosity to community need by supporting local nonprofits, initiatives, and donors through grantmaking, endowments, and partnerships. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all donations are tax-deductible.