Jack Hornor and Ron Skinn’s commitment to Hampshire County goes back to 1992 when Jack moved here two years after he came out as gay. He says, “I needed a place where I would be welcome.”
Jack wasted no time getting involved. He worked with local LGBT groups, helping to organize and raise money for them. In 1995 he was the chief fundraiser for the effort to recognize same sex domestic partnerships, and although the effort failed, his success in fundraising led to getting involved in local politics. “Nobody had an issue with my being gay.” Jack says, “They just wanted me to help out.”
His volunteer and board work grew from there to include chairing the Northampton Community Preservation Committee, chairing the Northampton Housing Partnership, working on the State Hospital Citizens Advisory Committee, and serving on the United Way of Hampshire County’s audit committee. He was a founding board member of MassEquality (dedicated to Massachusetts without discrimination and oppression based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), serving as co-chair of the development committee, chair of the finance committee, member of executive committee, and treasurer. Recently, he was awarded volunteer of the year by the Northampton Democratic Party.
Jack’s broad experiences, both as a major donor and working for non-profits such as Tapestry Health, has given him a deep-seated understanding of non-profits. As a fundraising consultant, he focused on ethical, donor-centered philanthropy, and Jack continues to do pro bono consulting now that he’s retired.
“United Way is a vital part of the non-profit community,” says Jack, “and not just because it collects and distributes money, which it does very well. It plays an important leadership role.”
With the COVID-19 crisis, Jack and Ron contacted United Way of Hampshire County with an offer to step up and help. The 25 for 25 Matching Gift Drive is Jack and Ron’s matching grant to inspire giving. New gifts raised over 25 days will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000, providing $50,000 to United Way of Hampshire County.
“Jack and Ron are amazing,” says John Bidwell, Executive Director of United Way of Hampshire County. “Their ongoing commitment is exceptional. We are so thankful to them. And I speak for the community when I say all of us are thankful.”
You can donate to Jack and Ron’s 25 for 25 Matching Gift Drive here.