Lung Health News, Spring / Summer 2002
Jim Howard has contributed countless hours to the American Lung Association over the last 22 years, and he plans to continue giving even after he is gone. The dedicated volunteer took out a life insurance policy with the American Lung Association as the benefactor.
Howard is the epitome of the ideal link between government public health and nonprofit health organizations. At his day job, he is assistant deputy director for the California Department of Health Services.
"I value the partnership between the two," Howard says. "Voluntary health agencies advocate for the consumer and those who are most affected by illness. They represent the nonpartisan voice."
Over the years, he has served on a variety of local, state and national American Lung Association committees, including those overseeing programs, advocacy efforts, and management issues. In that time, he has helped the American Lung Association make important gains in its efforts to reduce tobacco use, advocate for policies to improve air quality, and support people with lung disease.
"The truth is, I think I've benefited more from my service to the American Lung Association. It's been a real growth experience. I've learned a lot," he says modestly. "The life insurance policy is a way for me to make sure I can give to the organization even after I'm gone."
