Throughout her life, Cherese always said, "I want to make a difference in this world. She did, by touching many lives so profoundly. Cherese gave all her heart and soul with compassion, sincerity and love. Cherese told friends that she wanted to make a difference in the lives of less fortunate children.

A foundation in Cherese's honor was established in 1996. Cherese's parents, brother and close friends are committed to keeping Cherese's memory alive and helping to bring alive Cherese's dream of helping children.

Since 1996, the Cherese Mari Laulhere Foundation has provided annual support for Kettering's special education programs. Cherese's first gift to Kettering, which she attended from 1979-1986, was a playground and benches for the special education preschool. Kettering held a school assembly to honor Cherese and dedicate the "Cherese Mari Laulhere Pre-K Play Yard". For more information, please visit www.cherese.org.