fundraiser, poet, friend: Jason Shinder, 1955 to 2008

I don't know anyone who is a better fundraiser than Jason Shinder was.

By being himself -- by connecting with people kindly, authentically, and personally -- he not only made hundreds of friends, he also formed plentiful partnerships and secured dozens of grants to support his vision of integrating arts into YMCAs across the country.

I worked with Jason when I was at the YMCA of the USA, and like so many others who knew him, I know that my life is richer for it.

 

CODA

And now I know what most deeply connects us

after that summer so many years ago,
and it isn’t poetry, although it is poetry,

and it isn’t illness, although we have that in common,

and it isn’t gratitude for every moment,
even the terrifying ones, even the physical pain,

though we are grateful, and it isn’t even death,

though we are halfway through
it, or even the way you describe the magnificence

of being alive, catching a glimpse,

in the store window, of your blowing hair and chapped lips,
though it is beautiful, it is; but it is

that you’re my friend out here on the far reaches

of what humans can find out about each other.

—Jason Shinder

nonprofits, nota bene: As you work for the common good, be sure to take time for art.  Whether it's a poem, or play, or song, art will replenish your spirit for the work ahead.

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