Irish Fest fish fry raises funds to honor late teen who loved the fine arts

PEORIA (25News Now) - Maggie Bertram was a young artist, dancer and musician who died in a car accident 11 years ago.

She was just 16, and a foundation was created in her name to offer grants and scholarships so other young people like Maggie can pursue their passion in the arts.

Friday at Holy Family School, where Maggie attended, there was an Irish Fest fish fry to benefit the Maggie Bertram Foundation.

“It’s the biggest fundraiser we do,” said Ruthie Bertram, who is the foundation’s vice president.

“We bring together the community to celebrate all the work that we’ve done, but also to raise money for fine arts education for K through 12 schools,” she said.

The foundation’s mission is explained on its website.

“We believe that the arts are an essential part of elementary and high school education. Music, dance, and the visual and performing arts develop lifelong skills of critical and creative thinking, problem solving, collaboration, reflection, and persistence. Our vision is that each child will participate in the arts through school-based programs that are a valued component of the educational curriculum.”

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