About
Moppie Mae Foundation
In 2023, Moppie Mae Foundation was founded in memory of Martha Mae Dorsey Boles. Martha was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and raised in the Bronzeville community of Chicago where she grew up among famous poets, musicians and activists.
Lovingly nicknamed "Moppie" by family and friends, Martha aspired to be a librarian. She was a connector and communicator whose bright personality calmed the most turbulent moods. Moppie is remembered for her endless curiosity, passion for reading, and steadfast optimism. ​
​
Moppie Mae Foundation seeks to amplify Moppie's penchant for continuous learning and development through its programming and scholarship fund. Unity Schooling and the Moppie Mae Mobile Library are two initiatives powered by Moppie Mae Foundation to support lifelong learning and educational advocacy.
​
Moppie Mae passed away at 105-years-old in February 2023. She believed patience and slow-living was the key to a long life. Moppie left behind an impressive collection of music and classic literature. A book list with titles from her personal library is available on Amazon.
Moppie Mae was highlighted in the Christian Science Monitor on November 24, 2021. The article mentioned, "Grateful for life and the gift of having many good memories, Mrs. Boles has learned that some things need to be forgotten if you’re going to be happy. 'If something disturbs me, I just throw it out of my mind,' she says. 'Life has disappointments, but I put them aside. My mother used to say, ‘Love will cure everything.’ It’s certainly kept me going ... and I’m thankful.'”
Shown below: Moppie Mae on her wedding day.
Will you help us raise money to fund the Moppie Mae Mobile Library?
Our truck will house classic book titles, featured works by new and established African American authors, and vintage periodicals.
The Moppie Mae Mobile Library will visit schools, Unity Schooling students, and local events to share the gift of literacy. Please visit our WeFunder to support.
