The family of Kelly Dwyer is preserving Kelly’s memory with a fundraising initiative that will support Sojourner Family Peace Center with up to $20,000 to start.
Kelly, who spent her childhood in Chicago, moved to Milwaukee in 2007. She went missing in October 2013 at age 27. In May, her body was discovered in Jefferson County. No cause of death could be determined.
In place of a memorial service, the Dwyer family has established The Kelly Dwyer Memorial Peace Project to back the Sojourner Family Peace Center, which helps individuals and families trying to escape and recover from domestic violence.
Kelly’s father, Tony Dwyer, has announced that the family will match every donation for the first $10,000 collected.
“Kelly’s mom, sister and I are so thankful to the Milwaukee community for the outpouring of support and kindness over the incredibly painful past two years,” Tony said in a statement. “In honor of Kelly’s life, we are proud to partner with Sojourner. Kelly loved helping people, loved Milwaukee and we know that she would want to be part of the solution for other women who need help.”
“Kelly’s tragic story reminds us that we as a community must be vigilant in ensuring our colleagues, neighbors, friends and family members are safe,” said Carmen Pitre, executive director of Sojourner Family Peace Center.
Donations are being accepted online or via mail at Sojourner Foundation, PO Box 080319, Milwaukee, WI 53208.
