Manchester - Ruth Zax, development director for Child and Family Services of NH, was recently honored with the Award for Excellence in Development by the Council on Fundraising (CONFR), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the art and science of philanthropy in New Hampshire.

Zax, a 28 year veteran in the field of development, has guided the philanthropic efforts at Child and Family Services of NH since 1983, during which time she has raised almost $25 million in charitable support. 

With a Master of Education degree, Zax began her career at CFS 36 years ago as part of the advocacy team, driven by her belief that children are entitled to nurturance, protection, and a chance to develop their full human potential.  In that time, whether as an advocate or fund-raiser, she has advanced the well-being of over 500,000 children and families throughout New Hampshire and eastern Vermont.

Widely respected for her contributions to her profession, Zax has seen the agency through critical times of change and has devised innovative solutions that have transcended three recessions and resulted in substantial increases in revenue and donor retention.  Last year alone, CFS served 15,000 individuals, over 90% of whom lived at or below the poverty level.  Only through charitable support, were they able to obtain the care and services they needed to become or remain productive members of the community.

“We are very proud to have Ruth as a leader on our team and a champion of our cause,” says Mike Ostrowski, president and CEO of Child and Family Services.  “Ruth exemplifies what can happen when passion and purpose combine.  She is the best in her field and her efforts are certain to leave a lasting impression on the quality of family life for generations to come.”

“I’ve worked with the most amazingly talented, dedicated and professional practitioners—people who are defined by their passion for the work they do every day in homes, in the community, in schools, and on the streets,” says Zax. “This is what inspires me and keeps me motivated.  I thank you all for what we have accomplished together to make life better for children and their families.”

CONFR is a professional association with a mission to educate and empower the nonprofit community to raise more money for a stronger New Hampshire.  The Award for Excellence in Development is presented to a development professional who is “committed to the values of philanthropy:  trust, honesty, tolerance, altruism, and service.  S/he possesses the skills and knowledge, as well as extraordinary creativity and energy, to enhance the financial sustainability of their organization, to develop meaningful relationships with donors, to serve as an example and mentor to those new to the profession, and to foster a culture of philanthropy in their organization and beyond.”