How Marilyn and Gerald Fishbone’s PACE/LOJE Fund Continues their Legacy of Philanthropy, Progress, and Purpose
For 60 years, Marilyn and Gerald Fishbone lead their marriage by two principles: service and family. They were deeply involved with Breakthrough T1D and the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven.
Their legacy of service began when their son Scott was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 18 months old. After his diagnosis, Marilyn founded the New Haven, CT Chapter of Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) where she became an active volunteer. Gerald also served at Breakthrough T1D for over 40 years. His contributions ranged from Chair of the Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors (IBOD), Medical Advisor, Research Committee member, and donor.
Their work toward advancing research and innovations for the T1D community was evident when their 5-year-old grandson Harris Wallack was diagnosed with T1D in 2001. Marilyn owed her gratitude for the drastic improvements in managing T1D to the “strategic leadership of Breakthrough T1D” (Breakthrough T1D).
Marilyn and Gerald’s goal to create change in the New Haven community did not end with their work at Breakthrough T1D. They both left lasting impacts on New Haven’s Jewish community.
For decades, Marilyn worked at the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven (cite obituary), growing her philanthropy and involvement both as a Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven’s Women of Vision Society member and a Lion of Judah. Gerald also demonstrated his commitment to the Jewish community by serving as Chair of Holocaust Remembrance Day.
Together, they met the Beckerman Family PACE Challenge by establishing PACE (Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment) Funds. Beginning with a minimum commitment of $10,000, these permanent endowments ensure enduring annual support for the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven’s Annual Campaign, helping sustain the community well into the future.
Through their PACE Fund, Marilyn and Gerald’s generosity and impact will never be forgotten. Their philanthropic impacts continue to strengthen the New Haven community, and their legacy lives through their children Scott and Lisa and their six grandchildren Lucas, Alex, Kate, Harris (Casey), Perry (Serena), and Sydney.