Mary Leonard
A not-for-profit organization that sold thousands of handmade masks, gave hundreds of people jobs and supported local businesses shut down at the end of 2020 after serious health problems sidelined the organization's founder.
For years, Mary Leonard ran KatherineHelena, a private jewelry company that helped organizations raise thousands of dollars for fundraisers. The jewelry company was named for Leonard's grandmother, Helen, and her great aunt, Kay.
When the coronavirus pandemic hit, KatherineHelena briefly suspended operations and owner Mary Leonard pivoted and started KH Giving. The first local nonprofit to benefit from KH Giving was United Community. Proceeds from the sale of masks, after supporting local jobs making and delivering the masks, went to United Community to support the program’s food pantry with masks, cleaning supplies and food for Alexandria residents.
By the end of 2020, KH Giving had pumped more than $100,000 into the community by providing local, well-paying jobs and supporting nonprofit organizations, KH Giving reported. Residents who bought masks were entered into win prizes donated by local businesses, which kept interest high throughout the year.
By the end of 2020, however, long-term health issues forced Leonard to end both operations. Leonard says she plans to get back to work at some point, but she faces a long, difficult recovery that could take years.
