What inspires you about Dayton?
Alice: I was born in Cleveland, but I am now a devoted Daytonian. I love it here.
Burt: I am a native Daytonian. I have lived here all of my life except for a decade I spent away at college and graduate school and serving in the military in Turkey and Italy. Dayton provided a nurturing place for me as a child and a welcoming place for my return when I joined my father in his dental practice. Dayton continues to welcome us and all who want to participate in the life of the city.
What has influenced your desire to give both your time and dollars to charity?
Alice: Giving is central to our family values. Opportunities to give more than just money are readily available in Dayton for individuals who want to serve and help others.
Why did you decide to honor your son, David, with a scholarship through The Dayton Foundation?
Burt: We honor the blessed memory of our late son, David Alexander, in many ways. He is our inspiration, just as he was when he was our active and lovable son. David’s many friends, who came together after his funeral, started the idea of creating a scholarship to remember him. We were inspired to continue the David A. Saidel Merit Scholarship Fund, which awards scholarships to Miami Valley School students who share David’s zest for living. They are the living embodiment of David and share the same confidence, wit and intelligence that he had. They take pride in calling themselves the ‘Saidel Scholars,’ with many of them even displaying David’s photo in their homes. That’s the kind of impact David has on people, even after his death.
You both have been very active volunteers and contributors to local arts organizations. What do you love most about the arts?
Alice: The arts are the essence of life. We know that music, literature, drama, fine arts and humanities can enter into the very fabric of one’s life and enrich every aspect of it.
Burt: Not everyone has access to the beauties of the world. Beauty, art inspire you. They are as important as food and can change lives. Dayton has such a vital arts life, and we want others to be enriched as well.
How does The Dayton Foundation help you to help others?
Burt: The Dayton Foundation is convenient and efficient as a means for giving to charity, but it’s so much more. Being associated with the Foundation is an inspiration. We appreciate how so many people with such full hearts can do so much to help others. As a member of the Foundation’s Development Committee, I see how donors of all means can and do have an impact on the lives of their fellow citizens. The Foundation and its’ donors are doing good work for our community and beyond.
What advice can you share about giving to the community?
Alice: We are privileged to live in Dayton. There is so much in the arts and civic activity. Bring your passion, your dedication and your dollars. See how these things can help others and yourself. It feels good to enrich the community that enriches you.
Burt: I also give my artwork, including hand-made wooden pieces that grace schools, synagogues and churches. Woodcarving is a continuation of David’s inspiration. It was one of the many hobbies that we shared. Now, with his muse as a guide and the help of others, I continue to do this. We receive much more than we give!
How would you complete this sentence, “My giving makes me feel____?”
Alice: Compassionate, vital and human.
Burt: More alive and worthwhile. I am grateful for the opportunity to help others.
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