Tale of Giving Was Inspirational

I was deeply moved by “Giving an Assist” by Beverly Beyette (Feb. 2), about Steven Cobin’s efforts on behalf of individuals who need wheelchairs worldwide. As competition for government resources gets steeper, people are stepping into the gap to provide for their fellow human beings and, as Cobin put it, put an emphasis less on “making money” and more on “making a difference.”

As Cobin learned firsthand, one individual who is generous with time or a donation can bring an organization from a listless or even threatened existence into a place where it can thrive and attract others. All of us are thankful every day for the people, like Cobin, who assist our nonprofit agencies. The wonderful, caring volunteers are what make a successful nonprofit stand apart from the others. In each of our lives is the place where service belongs, and life is not full without it.

That Cobin would go to this place instead of falling into the trap of bitterness when presented with multiple setbacks and tragedies in his family is truly inspiring. That a private man would allow himself to be profiled in a large newspaper so that others can think about these questions and possibly be moved to action is courageous. The world needs more Steve Cobins.

RONALD S. COHEN

Executive director

United Cerebral Palsy of L.A. and Ventura Counties