The Ellie Fund, formerly the Gerson-Margolis Foundation, was renamed in Spring 2001 to honor the memory of Eleanor (Ellie) Gerson, who passed away in October 2000 at the age of 85.  For all of her adult life, Ellie was a pioneering philanthropist, a hands-on community activist, and a respected mentor to many in the nonprofit sector in Cleveland.  She was passionate about improving the lives of disadvantaged women and children, and to that end she supported programs and organizations that stress self-empowerment and family preservation.

Ellie was born in New York in 1915, and she moved with her family to Cleveland when she was 10 years old.  A graduate of Hathaway Brown School and Smith College, Ellie married Benjamin S. Gerson in Cleveland in 1938, and they had four children.  In her mid-40's Ellie returned to school and earned a Master's degree in American Studies from Western Reserve University in 1962.  In 1965, she earned a Master's degree in Social Work from Western Reserve University, which marked the beginning of a very active professional career and volunteer life in the areas of child guidance, public affairs, women's issues and Jewish community service.  Among Ellie's proudest achievements was her involvement with Cleveland Scholarship Programs as its first Executive Director and later as a Board member.  She also played a pivotal role in the survival of The School on Magnolia, which was renamed The Eleanor Gerson School in 1982, and now operates under the auspices of Applewood Centers, Inc.

Ellie often spoke with family and friends about her strong personal commitment to addressing the injustices of the world.  Her children and grandchildren were impacted greatly by her dedication and passion. Although The Ellie Fund's special focus is children, it is our goal to memorialize Ellie Gerson's profound influence on our values as a family by supporting organizations and programs that address her life-long desire to see justice and equality for those who are oppressed, hurting, and in need.

 

Leslie Goldman

Daniel Margolis

James Margolis

Jennifer Margolis

Margaret Margolis

Richard Margolis