FrontLiner Profiles: Rich Robins

 “My guiding belief is that the more talent, time, and treasure one has been given, the greater the responsibility to one’s fellow man. For me, that place is FrontLine Service.”

Rich Robins has served on FrontLine Service's Board of Directors for 20+ years.

What are you most proud of during your tenure serving on FrontLine’s board of directors?

In the 20+ years I have served on the board, I’m proud that the agency has grown from a few core programs reaching out to individuals in crisis to a 27 million dollar organization, with over 30 programs, serving 20,000 individuals each year. It’s exciting to help guide an organization that is filling critical gaps in our community. I feel honored to be part of FrontLine’s growth over the past two decades, including serving as chair of the Board of Directors and the Finance and Development committees. 

What inspired you and your wife to create an endowment for FrontLine? 

It’s important to us that vulnerable members of our community have a safety net like FrontLine. As long as there is a need in our community, we want to ensure that the life-saving services FrontLine provides are available.  That is why Kate and I gave the initial gift to establish FrontLine’s endowment fund and included FrontLine Service in our estate plan. 

You will often hear me say to the leadership team and board members, “No Margin, No Mission.” My fellow board members and I have a responsibility to ensure the agency stays financially strong and stable.  

To that end, Kate and I hope the establishment of this endowment will encourage others to donate in this way, to ensure future generations have access to the essential services FrontLine provides. 

How did you learn about FrontLine? 

At the time, I was an elected councilperson for Bratenahl. One day, while pouring concrete for a new playground, I met a FrontLine board member (though back then the agency was called Mental Health Services!) I was immediately drawn to the organization’s mission, and that was the beginning of a decades-long relationship. 

Are you interested in volunteering on FrontLine’s Board of Directors? Bringing your unique skillset to support the work and the staff of the agency is an excellent opportunity to make a positive impact in our community.  If you are interested in learning more about the Board of Directors or contributing to our endowment fund, email Corrie Taylor at corrie.taylor@frontlineservice.org.