On October 22, Proskauer partner Ron Franklin was honored at the Habitat for Humanity of New York City and Westchester County’s 40th anniversary celebration. Ron, a Habitat Board member, is co-head of the Firm’s Finance Group and leads the Fund Finance practice. Over the years, he has volunteered around the world with Habitat and has distinguished himself at the Firm and in his community through pro bono work. At the event, Habitat CEO Sabrina Lippman, summed it up well when she noted that, “Ron’s dedication goes far beyond funding — he actively volunteers on local build sites and abroad, demonstrating a deep commitment to our cause. As a devoted board member, his thoughtful leadership has been a guiding force, setting a tremendous example of service.” Below, we asked Ron to reflect on his work for the organization and the importance of public service.
Building a Team and a Home with Habitat
For those of you who have not had the experience, allow me to share with you the magic of doing a “build” with Habitat for Humanity. First, while most everyone has heard of this organization, many may not fully understand what it does and how it works. In short, Habitat is a non-profit that helps families and improves places to call home. But this includes more than simply building new residences (both homes and town-houses), but also helping renovate homes for the disabled and those in need.
The scope and benefits that Habitat provides extend beyond the family living in the houses served, and include improving the surrounding communities. I have seen this firsthand as a member of the board for the local Habitat chapter here in Los Angeles.
Three years ago Habitat built houses in a distressed area of Long Beach. Having the new homes, and owners that took good care of them, has really turned around that community. Not only did we build new homes in Long Beach, we also made cosmetic and capital improvements to others in the surrounding areas, in houses where the owner was disabled, senior, or otherwise unable to do the work. This area now has playgrounds, parks and a sense of community.