More than 30 years ago, George Lane walked into an NVFS meeting almost by accident. A colleague had asked him to fill in at a CARE Awards planning session, and George — knowing little about NVFS at the time — agreed. He wasn't sure what to expect.
He never left.
"She told me, 'Don't worry, you'll be fine,'" George recalls with a laugh. "And more than 30 years later, here I am — still hanging around!"
What started as a favor turned into a lifelong commitment. The idea behind the CARE Awards — that businesses share a responsibility for the wellbeing of their employees and communities — resonated deeply with George and drew him further into the NVFS orbit. Over the years, his involvement grew from attending meetings to volunteering at the Thrift Shop, supporting Training Futures, and eventually serving on the NVFS Board of Directors.
"I was deeply impressed with the depth and breadth of services NVFS provides and the thousands of people it serves every year," he says.
One memory stands out above the rest. Shortly after 9/11, George learned as a board member that NVFS had been selected to administer the Survivors Fund — providing critical support to families affected by the tragedy. "What an honor and acknowledgment of the excellence NVFS would bring to this critical and emotional role," he reflects.
That experience also gave him his first opportunity to work closely with Stephanie Berkowitz, now NVFS President and CEO. "It quickly became evident why she was tapped for that role — and why she would eventually go on to lead the entire organization."
When asked what has kept him connected for three decades, George doesn't hesitate: "The people. From leadership to staff, NVFS continually attracts an incredible array of employees. The dedication and enthusiasm everyone brings to their work is infectious."
His belief in NVFS' mission runs so deep that he has chosen to include the organization in his will — ensuring his impact endures for generations to come.
"NVFS has enriched my life in so many ways," he shares. "It's given me incredible people, inspiring stories, and the joy of knowing that our work makes others' lives better. The end of my time shouldn't mark the end of that appreciation."
George's story is an invitation. Whether you give an afternoon or a lifetime, there is a place for you in this community. Explore ways to get involved with NVFS or learn more about legacy giving here.
