A lifelong commitment to local community impact
Philanthropy has always been a part of Fran Koch’s life. In reflecting on how she grew, she never doubted whether she would give back. It was always a matter of how.
“Helping others was just in my blood,” Fran says. Growing up in New Orleans, Fran’s parents were outstanding examples of generosity and community involvement. They were deeply engaged in volunteer work, particularly in the Jewish community. Her father served as president of the temple while her mother was active in the congregation’s sisterhood. Their example had a lasting impression.
As Fran grew, her commitment to community service took shape. She approached volunteerism with a local lens, gravitating to opportunities wherever she lived. Beginning in New Orleans, she became involved with Jewish Children’s Regional Service (JCRS). Founded in her hometown, JCRS was originally an orphanage and over time evolved to offer camp and college scholarships to at-risk children across seven states.
She has been actively involved with JCRS for more than 30 years, even chairing the 150th anniversary gala. Her dedication continued through life’s transitions, including when Hurricane Katrina resulted in her family’s relocation to Houston.
Getting involved with United Way
Fran and her husband, Julian, spent two decades in Houston where she continued her direct approach to community involvement. Her approach when someone asks her to help, “‘Give me the ball and I’ll run with it.”
In Houston, Fran got involved in the Jewish Federation of Houston as a Lion of Judah. She also became more familiar with United Way. She witnessed how a variety of organizations with diverse missions can be brought together through United Way initiatives. That experience helped her recognize the unique role United Way plays in strengthening entire communities.
A new chapter in Cleveland
She carried this understanding of United Way’s work to Cleveland. Fran and Julian moved to the area in 2025 after their son, Ben, and daughter-in-law, Courtney, had been here for a decade. They were excited to live near family again, especially their twin grandchildren Ivy and Asher.
As they settled into their new home, Fran began exploring ways to give back to their new community. She continued her involvement as a Lion of Judah and attended a luncheon for Jewish Family Service Association (JFSA). Then, her understanding of how JFSA collaborated with United Way Greater Houston led her to United Way of Greater Cleveland. Her appreciation for United Way’s broad support and services for people in Northeast Ohio inspired her to make an initial donation. After seeing a news story about United Way’s response to the pause in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, she was inspired to increase her gift.
It did not take long for Fran’s involvement to deepen. After learning more about the organization’s impact, and forming connections with staff, she learned the breadth of work United Way supports across the region.
“I realized how much United Way can do because it touches so many areas of need,” she says. Fran and Julian eventually increased their support a second time when their family foundation, the Betty & Ira Kohn Foundation, enabled them to make a significant year-end gift. This helped them maximize their personal as well as their foundation’s charitable impact. Now, they are members of the Philanthropist Society.
Philanthropy as connection and joy
For Fran, philanthropy is far more than financial support. Rather, philanthropy is an action rooted in empathy, connection, and joy. “Philanthropy means sharing the joy of helping others,” she explains. “Whether it’s your time or your resources, it’s about knowing you can help someone who needs it.”
The joy in helping others is something Fran believes she shares with Greater Clevelanders. Since moving here, she notes the warmth and generosity she’s experienced. The community has made her family feel welcomed, like they belong. Simply put, it feels like home.
Supporting her growing connection to the community is Fran’s family. She speaks proudly about her son, Ben, who works at Cuyahoga Community College supporting academic advisors and guidance counselors. She also admires the example set by her daughter-in-law, Courtney, who actively supports causes within the community and at her grandchildren’s school.
Seeing that commitment in the next generation gives Fran hope for the future and continuing her family’s legacy of giving back. “Ben and Courtney are raising their children with those same values,” she says. “My grandson and granddaughter are learning what it means to help others.”
Advice for getting involved
For anyone wanting to deepen their personal philanthropy and charitable impact, Fran offers simple but powerful advice: start by getting involved. She encourages others to do something that interests them and learn what it’s all about. If they feel passionate about their experience, then support financially too.
Ultimately, Fran believes the true reward of community involvement is connection and a shared sense of purpose. “When you give, you’re not expecting anything in return,” she says. “You give because it feels good to help—and that joy is reason enough.”
