We have just celebrated 250 years since the birth of our country. It has been filled with concerts, parties, fireworks, parades and so much more. It is such a special time for Americans and we certainly do have a lot to celebrate.
Often as we look throughout our history we recognize many of the significant individuals and events that have shaped our country. Sometimes we memorialize key leaders who have contributed so much to our national heritage.
Some of the most influential individuals have not been people of power or wealth. Rather they have led movements from the non-profit sector that have had major impact in the world. They have given their lives for causes and issues that have truly benefited so many in our country who have had specific needs.
I think of people like Jane Addams who was a pioneer of the settlement house movement and in social work. Through Hull House she helped immigrants access education, healthcare, childcare and job training. She was the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
How about Clara Barton who founded the American Red Cross and revolutionized disaster relief and emergency response to crisis in the United States? I think of simple individuals like Fred Rogers who used Fred Rogers Productions to demonstrate how nonprofit media could nurture and shape generations of children.
There is Eunice Kennedy Shriver who founded Special Olympics, which changed perceptions of people with intellectual disabilities and created opportunities for millions. Then there is Millard Fuller who founded Habitat for Humanity which mobilized volunteers to create affordable housing all over the world, and Wendy Kopp who founded Teach for America bringing talented graduates to teach in underserved schools.
Close to home for me is Dr. Sandra Bloom, an associate of mine who developed organizational approaches to trauma-informed care that have influenced schools, non-profits and human services organizations. The list could go on and on with talented, gifted professionals who have given their lives for so many compassionate causes.
What is unique and unites these individuals is that they identified some of our most serious social problems, built long-term solutions, and inspired others to join their mission. Their legacies have continued to serve future generations with amazing impact and lasting change.
As we continue to look at our next 250 years, it is my hope and anticipation that we will continue to be inspired by leaders like these who will contribute to our country and our world with meaningful and compassionate innovations. In our country and in our global community, we have some serious and significant needs that will require inspirational non-profit leaders who will continue the legacies of those who have been such a strong example to us all. I celebrate our country on this special birthday and those who have been heroic non-profit leaders.
Gerry Vassar
President/CEO
