Our Story

The Hattie Mae Foundation Inc, is a 501 (c) (3) organization established in honor of the life and enduring legacy of Delores Mae Cohen Walton, affectionately known as "Hattie Mae". Her life was rooted in compassion, service, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to strengthening the lives of others through health, housing, and education. Following her passion, the Foundation was created to carry forward the values she lived every day- uplifting families, empowering communities, and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive. 

As a devoted mother of three, Delores believed education was the foundation of opportunity, growth, and long-term success. She encouraged academic excellence and understood the transformative power education could have on future generations. 

Her dedication extended far beyond her own family through her involvement as a PTSA parent, where she actively supported reading and mathematics initiatives while advocating for healthy school lunch programs that promoted student wellness.

Delores dedicated much of her professional career to the public housing sector, beginning as an Assistant Property Manager and ultimately retiring as a Regional Director. 

Through her career, she became a passionate advocate for fair housing, tenant involvement, and policies that improved the quality of life for underserved families and communities. She believed every individual deserved access to safe, clean, and stable housing and worked tirelessly to ensure those standards were upheld.

Her work also included the development of social service initiatives designed to support vulnerable individuals and families experiencing hardship. 

As a cancer survivor, Delores understood the importance of health awareness, access to quality medical care, and education surrounding diagnosis and treatment. 

Her personal journey strengthened her belief that wellness extends beyond physical health to include emotional and mental health as well. She consistently encouraged others to become advocates for their health while embracing healthier lifestyles for themselves and their families.

Today, the Hattie Mae Foundation, Inc. continues her legacy by serving communities through initiatives centered on housing stability, health education, and educational empowerment. 

The Foundation exists not as a tribute to her life, but as a continued commitment to the compassion, advocacy, and servant leadership she demonstrated through her lifetime. 

Her legacy continues to inspire hope, strengthen communities, and empower future generations.