Joanne Donato Memorial Bench Project

My name is Tracey Hill. Since 1980, I have taught Aerobic Fitness classes through the Alpharetta (Georgia) Parks Department, where I met an outstanding person, Joanne Donato.

From age 51, Joanne faithfully attended classes at Wills Park three times a week for over 30 years! At age 81, she was the loved matriarch of the class, inspiring her classmates and me with her enthusiasm and positivity. As a result, she was one of only two students (so far) to receive Aerobic Fitness' coveted "30 Years of Sweat" certificate.

Our class was heartbroken when she passed away in June. Seeing "Joanne's corner," where she always exercised, now empty, is a reminder of our loss.

To commemorate her consistent dedication to exercise and, more so, her caring friendship, we have started "The Joanne Donato Memorial Bench Project."

The Alpharetta Parks Department has a Memorial/Tribute Program that provides a way to purchase an inscribed bench in Joanne's name. This is a fitting tribute. After class, Joanne would walk the beautiful trails at Wills Park with her classmates–conversing, laughing, and deepening relationships. By placing an inscribed bench beside one of these trails, we can have a reminder of our dear friend, while providing others a place to sit and rest.

The inscribed black metal memorial park bench is $3,000. Joanne's classmates and I have collected $1,160, and we would greatly appreciate your help in funding this lasting tribute to our friend. Please give what you can. And thank you!