Donors should also consider two animal groups, based on Julie Matte's passions.
Those who wish to honor the victim of last month's murder-suicide in Warren County should consider donating to animal groups and domestic violence services, her family has said.
Blairstown Township police posted their wishes Saturday on Facebook, listing three options for potential donors.
Julie Matte, 46, was found dead about 1 a.m. Oct. 26 at her Cherry Tree Lane home, minutes after calling 911 to report she was being shot at, authorities said. The body of her 55-year-old husband, Edward Aghahowa,was found hours later at a campground six miles away with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Murder-suicide victims' pets finding new homes
"Our family misses Julie horribly," the message from the family says. "We are in the process of finding out just how many peoples' lives she positively influenced."
They suggest making donations to:
- Helping Horseshoe, a non-profit therapeutic riding club where Matte volunteered. Their website is www.helpinghorseshoe.org.
"This was near and dear to her heart and she loved the impact it has on people," Matte's family said. - Domestic Abuse and Sexual Intervention Services, a non-profit group that helps people in Warren County. Their website is www.dasi.org.
"Given what happened to Julie, we feel it's important to help other women who may be in danger or need other help," her family said. - Margo for Animals, a non-profit that helps offset the cost of animal adoptions. Their website is www.margoforanimals.org.
"We all know how much Julie loved her animals," the post said.
Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.