ARLINGTON, VA – John C. Erickson, a businessman and innovator who has revolutionized the concept of retirement and given millions to charity, has been selected to receive the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) top philanthropy honor, the Paschal Murray Award for Outstanding Philanthropist.
The award, sponsored by Paschal Murray, Inc., a national executive search firm specializing in the nonprofit sector, will be presented to Mr. Erickson on March 31, 2009, at the Awards for Philanthropy Banquet in New Orleans during AFP’s International Conference on Fundraising.
Nominated by the AFP Maryland Chapter, Mr. Erickson is the founder and chairman of Erickson Retirement Communities, which includes more than 20 campuses in 13 states and touches the lives of more than 23,000 retirees. He and his wife have given millions, both personally and through the Erickson Foundation, to fund research and development programs designed to contribute to best practices in active aging and aging with choices. In addition, his funds have helped create The Erickson School at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. The school is designed to prepare professionals to serve and meet the needs of older Americans.
“To be recognized with this award is an incredible honor,” said Mr. Erickson, “and I hope it inspires others to become involved in something they’re passionate about. I live by the motto, ‘to whom much is given, much is expected,’ and I think we should all seek opportunities where we can use our unique talents, skills, and resources for the betterment of others.”
Mr. Erickson’s philanthropy extends to younger people as well. He has provided hundreds of scholarships to children who live below the poverty level in Baltimore and played a key role in the creation of NorthBay, a $40 million outdoor adventure camp on the upper Chesapeake Bay for middle school-aged children. The camp provides skill-building and moral leadership activities and is used by many nonprofits that serve children and families.
“John Erickson is an outstanding philanthropist not just because of the money he gives, which is very significant, but also because of the leadership, dedication and innovation he brings to an issue,” said Colette Murray, CEO of Paschal Murray. “He brings resources to not only alleviate a problem, but solve problems and bringing new knowledge and understanding about issue. This willingness to tackle all aspects of an issue sets him apart, and Paschal Murray is humbled to work with AFP in presenting the award to a most deserving individual.”
Mr. Erickson’s spirit of philanthropy extends to his company and to the employees and residents who live and work at his retirement centers. Erickson and its related business entities donated more than $3 million in 2008 as part of its corporate social responsibility program and formalized national partnerships with the American Diabetes Association, the United Negro College Fund, and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Employee philanthropic activities are encouraged by providing up to $1,000 to every employee to support charitable organizations through matching contributions and support of volunteerism.
Residents at his communities are also encouraged to get involved. Signature programs include a scholarship program for high school students who work in the on-site restaurants and a benevolent care fund that provides financial assistance to any resident who exhausts his or her financial resources. In 2008 more than 400 students were receiving scholarships of $1,000 a year for four years because of this resident-funded program. In 2008 residents made more than $10 million in contributions to ensure the financial security of their friends and neighbors.
“Mr. Erickson’s philanthropy isn’t just helping a few groups of people, but is focused on helping entire generations live better and continue to get involved in giving and volunteering,” said Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of AFP. “His generosity is paving the way for a better future for all people, regardless of age, and AFP is honored to recognize him as our 2009 Outstanding Philanthropist.”
About The Association of Fundraising Professionals: AFP represents over 30,000 members in 200 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession. For more information, go to www.afpnet.org.
About Paschal Murray, Inc.: Paschal Murray, Inc. is a specialized executive search firm with corporate offices in Indio, California and regional offices in San Diego, Washington, D.C., North Carolina, Tennessee and Florida. The firm assists management in identifying and hiring professionals in fundraising, non-profit management and other organizational advancement titles. Visit them on the web atwww.paschalmurray.com.
For more information about this story, please contact Michael Nilsen (AFP) at 425-890-6628 or Kate Newton Schmelyun (Erickson Retirement Communities) at 410-402-2025.
