TFAS supporter Ed Fitzsimons is an ardent believer in education. The 83 year old said he and his wife Linda choose to support organizations that deliver educational value like TFAS.
Rather than writing checks to TFAS at different times throughout the year, the Manhasset, NY couple is one of a number of supporters who choose to give a monthly donation through a program called The Ben Franklin Club.
“I thought that the best way to support what TFAS is doing would be to send a token over an extended period of time,” Fitzsimons said. “It’s a painless way to make a donation, and TFAS can count on the funds. That’s important in any business.”
Members of the Ben Franklin Club can donate monthly to TFAS, either by an automatic draft from a checking account or by charges to their credit card. Participants may choose any amount they are comfortable contributing. Most of the current donations range from $10-$100. Participation is convenient because donations are processed automatically each month, and participants can change the monthly amount or stop the donations at any time. The program is gaining popularity among supporters.
Without education you can’t build a sound community. It’s all about human flourishing. That’s why we give as we do now.”
Even though Fitzsimons’ own career was in the fields of financial consulting and construction development, he and his family champion a number of educational causes. Fitzsimons’ son, Matthew Fitzsimons started a school for girls from underserved families in Hartford, Conn. in 2010. Grace Academy is an independent and tuition-free school for 5-8th grade girls.
At Grace Academy, students’ guardians pay a small monthly fee in addition to volunteering time to support their daughters’ education. It’s also possible through the Grace Academy website to make monthly pledges like the Ben Franklin Club.
“Without education you can’t build a sound community. It’s all about human flourishing,” Fitzsimons said. “That’s why we give as we do now.”
Fitzsimons described himself as an entrepreneur for his whole life. After receiving an undergraduate degree from Georgetown University, Fitzsimons spent time in financial consulting and construction development. Now in their retirement years, the Fitzsimons spend their time supporting educational causes, gardening, playing golf, reading and spend time with their 11 grandchildren.
For more information on the Ben Franklin Club, please visit www.TFAS.org/FranklinClub.