Inspired Lives II class 1: The Unsung Hero

[Moderator]

Itche Gershtenkorn experienced a lot of degrading episodes before he finally succeeded in 'breaking in' to the fundraising market in America.  Do you think that nowadays we also are unfair to fundraisers and collectors who come to our homes or send us letters in the mail?

[Devora1]

 I think there was a story told about the father in law of Rav Moshe Mordechai Epstein who merited to have sons in law who were all great talmidei chachamim. They say he merited this bec. he would have the collectors come in through the main door and soil his fancy carpets rather than showing them through the back kitchen entrance. His respect for others in need earned him this great reward

[shan]

Yes and No. On one hand there are many worthy causes to support with equally worthy people dedicating their time and effort to raising funds. On the other hand, few things are worse than being bombarded at home, work and elsewhere with high pressure tactics or sublime "pitches" which so many fund raisers have resorted to using.