In 1982, Jim Mason and his wife Vera relocated to Portsmouth from Framingham, Mass. when he was promoted to a new position as facilities manager at Raytheon.  The couple didn’t take long to settle in.  Within a year they became actively involved with Child & Family, launching what would become a more than three decade commitment for Jim.  From board member and building committees to the finance committee and the Taste of Newport’s event committee, his expertise and financial contributions have propelled Child & Family into a position to assist even more people in Rhode Island.  “In spite of the fact that we are all over the state, we are still a community agency,” notes Mason.

Mason attributes his late wife Vera’s passion for this agency along with his Raytheon colleagues encouragement for not only getting him involved initially, but also continuing to drive change and positive growth for the people served by Child & Family. He encourages others to consider individual and corporate donations.  “Many programs are not funded by the state, like supportive housing for mothers and their children,” he says.  “That’s a program that really needs financial support.”

From the smallest tasks, like collecting auction donations and helping at the holidays, to greater requests of mentoring new board members and making financial contributions, Jim takes his responsibility to Child & Family seriously.  The Vera Mason Community Room is a great reminder of the unyielding support made by the Mason’s. He hopes those served by Child & Family will be inspired to help others just as they were assisted in a time of need.  “Spread the word,” he encourages.  “If you are unable to volunteer or make a donation you can certainly tell others about Child & Family.”