By Daily Hampshire Gazette
Created 10/14/2010
To the editor:
Just over 20 years ago, Robert Meeropol, then an unfulfilled corporate lawyer in Springfield, figured out what he wanted to do with his life: he started the Rosenberg Fund for Children (RFC) in honor of his parents, Ethel and Julius Rosenberg. A concert at John M. Greene Hall in Northampton, featuring Pete Seeger, Richie Havens, Country Joe McDonald and Jane Sapp, launched the RFC on Oct. 12, 1990.
Two decades later, the RFC assists hundreds of children across the country every year, and has awarded almost $4 million since its beginning. But while this project sprang from one man's history and vision, and flourished because of the steadfast support of many people, including hundreds in the Pioneer Valley, one group deserves special recognition.
The RFC is not a project fueled primarily by wealthy people and relying on a "trophy" board of directors to bring home the metaphorical bacon. Instead thousands of people across the country and even abroad support the project with modest contributions. None have made greater contributions than the 36 local individuals who have served on the RFC's all-volunteer board of directors.
Particular kudos should go to four individuals whose service has been Herculean. Board members Elli Meeropol, Bruce Miller, Bill Newman and its chairman, Bob Winston, all have given two decades of their time and energy by serving in these roles from day one. The board is a working one - they make decisions about the organization's grants and policies, but they also provide a wide range of expert services including translation; legal and financial advising; event planning; leading arts workshops and counseling beneficiaries at gatherings attended by grantees; and rolling up their sleeves to work at every, single RFC event around the country for 20 years.
This level of commitment and service to community is rare. On behalf of RFC supporters, beneficiaries and staff, we thank them.
Amber Black
Easthampton
Amber Black is the public relations and technology coordinator for the Rosenberg Fund for Children.
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