We are most appreciative when individuals choose to make contributions to mark a rite of passage, an important date or a life well lived. The RFC welcomes inquiries from individuals interested in creating similar tributes to those described here. The RFC is honored to be the recipient of such an out-poring of generosity and pleased that this support will benefit future generations of the progressive community.

The Clinton E. Jencks Memorial Fund

(Clinton E. Jencks, 2nd from left, picketing in New Mexico, 1948)

In March 2008, Muriel Sobelman-Jencks established an annual grant of $1000 in memory of her husband, Clinton E. Jencks (1918-2005), “El Palomino,” organizer for United Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers, Local 890.  Clinton played himself in “Salt of the Earth,” the only American film to be blacklisted.  The movie depicted the McCarthy era strike by New Mexico zinc miners and the struggle of women to achieve equality, and became one of 400 motion pictures selected by the Library of Congress for the National Film Registry.  This annual grant is designated to assist children of workers who have been penalized, injured, fired, jailed or have died for their organizing efforts to build unions, improve working conditions and elevate living standards for all in the work force.  Anyone who wishes to donate to the Clinton E. Jencks Memorial Fund should indicate that designation when making a contribution to the RFC.

The Ozzy Klate Memorial Fund

In the fall of 2007, the RFC announced a named fund established by a most generous couple as a tribute to their son. The Ozzy Klate Memorial Fund (OKMF) of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, will provide a minimum of $1500 annually to support one or more of the RFC's spring grants. The OKMF founders have established the following criteria: The awards will provide for one or more teenagers who have demonstrated motivation, dedication,inspiration and productivity in the creative arts and progressive social thought, action and spiritual liberation. Whenever possible the fund will benefit teenagers or programs in Western Massachusetts. Anyone who wishes to donate to the OKMF should make a check payable to the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, 1500 Main Street, Suite 1800, Springfield, MA 01115 and write "Ozzy Klate Memorial Fund" in the memo line on the bottom left-hand corner of the check.

The Herman Warsh Fund

The Herman Warsh Memorial Fund was announced in the spring of 2006. Herman was one of Robert Meeropol's initial supporters when Robert was launching the RFC. Herman and his wife, Maryanne Mott, generously helped the RFC in its infancy and remained steadfast supporters. Following Herman's death, Maryanne established this award in his memory. Each fall, one RFC grant will receive support from the Herman Warsh Fund. Anyone who wishes to donate to the Herman Warsh Fund should indicate that designation when making a contribution to the RFC.

The George Ziefert Fund

In December 2005, Edith Ziefert, the widow of George Ziefert, established the first endowed memorial fund in the RFC's history. This fledgling endowment has been buoyed by two substantial contributions from the Ziefert family and has been supplemented by numerous other donations from family friends. We hope to receive sufficient additional contributions designated to the George Ziefert Fund to allow it to generate sufficient income to fund one award per year indefinitely. This named fund is one family's way of honoring their relative by continuing his legacy of support for progressive ideals. We are deeply grateful for this generosity. Anyone who wishes to donate to the George Ziefert Fund should indicate that designation when making a contribution to the RFC.

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* The RFC's Board of Directors awards all grants. However, once the Board makes those determinations, the RFC staff provides to each named fund's administrator, a list of grants that meet that fund's criteria. The administrators then choose specific grants that that their funds will support.

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>> E-mail Amber Black, Public Relations Coordinator

>> E-mail Jenn Meeropol, Grantmaking Coordinator

Contributions to the RFC are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. To make a donation, please send your check or money order to the address listed below or click the DONATE NOW button to contribute on line by credit card.

Rosenberg Fund for Children
116 Pleasant Street, Suite 348
Easthampton, MA 01027
Phone: (413) 529-0063
Fax: (413) 529-0802

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