Marilyn MacDonald always represented the best characteristics of volunteerism and dedication. Her work for AYSO and for soccer demonstrated a commitment to AYSO ideals and principles. Marilyn’s strong position to protect the rights of AYSO players resulted in the landmark lawsuit “USSF vs RIYSA” whose victory allowed AYSO players to participate in USSF and USYSA tournaments and interplay. Through her courage and unwillingness for AYSO players to be excluded, AYSO won national respect equal in stature to other members of the United States Soccer Federation. Marilyn was the founder of Region 715 in Providence, Rhode Island, and served as regional commissioner and the Area 3-B Director. She volunteered in AYSO for 19 years until her untimely passing on 9/30/07. In the words of a local volunteer: “The smiling faces of the children bear testament to Marilyn’s devotion to the AYSO philosophies and the positive results brought about by truly believing in them.” Marilyn embodied the reality that volunteers at the AYSO grassroots level CAN make a difference.