About Dolores Marjorie Trawinski

Dolores Marjorie Trawinski was a woman of boundless creativity and deep compassion. Her legacy lives on not only in the lives of those she loved, but in every stitch, brushstroke, and handmade gift she crafted with joy and intention.

Born September 1953, Dolores had a life defined by service, love, and a profound belief in the power of creativity. Whether it was a sewing machine, a paintbrush, or a simple box of crayons, she was never idle. Dolores saw potential in everything — and everyone. She believed in making things with care and purpose, and was known to tell those around her, “Don’t buy that, we can make it.”

Throughout her life, Dolores used her artistic gifts not for recognition, but to lift others. She supported her children’s schools and events with handmade costumes, decorations, and lovingly crafted props. At Lavallette Elementary School, where she worked for many years, her creative touch could be seen in classrooms, bulletin boards, school plays, and community gatherings. She gave generously of her time and talents — never seeking credit, always focused on service.

To friends and family, Dolores was a wellspring of warmth and practicality — always ready with a handmade card, a sewn costume, a painted sign, or simply a thoughtful word of encouragement. Her creativity was not just about art; it was about care. She made things for people, not just because she could.

This charitable foundation — and the art scholarship it funds — honors Dolores’s enduring belief that art can build connection, community, and confidence. Through this work, we continue her legacy of service, love, and creativity.