Columnist Muriel Stevens: Organization determined to keep Southern Nevada FIT

Tuesday, Feb. 10, 1998 | 9:01 a.m.

Can it possibly be true that Las Vegas needs yet another charitable organization?

Ask Janet Frasier Blumen that question and by the time she presents her case, even the most hardened skeptic will be convinced. Blumen is Founder and Chairman of the Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow. A public non-profit foundation, FIT's purpose is "to enhance the ability of Southern Nevadans to escape the cycle of dependency and lead productive, independent lives."

How does this differ from the mission of other organizations devoted to getting motivated Nevadans, "particularly women," out of the rut of welfare and minimum wage jobs? The FIT Foundation will supply the funds needed "where conventional sources are limited or non-existent."

Blumen, an attorney and the former Chairman of the Colorado River Commission, speaks with fervor about the crying need for such funds. Best known as a champion of our first amendment rights, Blumen made history when she won a landmark decision for Valley Broadcasting by overturning the law against casino advertising on television and radio. During her illustrious career she has been the recipient of many honors and awards. Most recently, Blumen was named Citizen of the Year by the Nevada Broadcasters Association.

We had an opportunity to talk about FIT at a cocktail party high atop the Polo Towers, hosted by Steve and Chantal Cloobeck.

The reception was an opportunity to introduce the FIT concept and the Foundation board members to the community, and to talk about its first major fundraiser, Notte di Carnevale, taking place at Caesars Palace March 27. The evening will honor one of our town's most active fundraisers, Sandy Peltyn. Peltyn will be the first recipient of the annual award which, as yet, does not have a name.

Peltyn and her spouse Roger have successfully coordinated so many local charity galas they could become professionals, but they're not. They're just perennial do-gooders who never say no to a worthy cause.

FIT's Board of Directors is filled with activists who know how to make things happen: Vice Chairman Mia Renshaw was part of the White House staff before she came to Nevada 12 years ago; Secretary Charli Carter spent 13 years in marketing and community affairs at News 13; Treasurer Suzzanne CQ Brubaker is a director in the firm of Deloitte and Touche; Joanne Blystone, a lifetime Nevadan, is the former President and co-owner of Blystone Equipment Company; Kathleen England is a much-admired attorney who specializes in employment law; Speech Pathologist/Audiologist Toni Fain previously worked for the Clark County School District; Rose McKinney-James is the President and CEO of the Corporation for Solar Technology and Renewable Resources (CSTRR);

Valerie Moon was one of the first women in Southern Nevada to hold a key position in casino management -- she is the Director of Sales for the Stardust Hotel; Judy Owen is the sales manager at Martin Media, a major billborad agency; Cathy Ray is anchor/medical reporter for News 13; Nancy Richins is an appeals officer for Nevada's Department of Administration, Hearings Division;

Joyce Strauss is a nationally recognized multi-media artist with a history of giving to the community; Mary Winter is the director ofm Marketing and advertising at the Santa Fe Hotel; Sandra Zanella, a former Miss Nevada, is an accomplished film, television and radio talent; Student Board Member Brina Hirkala is a native Nevadan and a graduate of Bishop Gorman High School (with honors) and is an accounting major at UNLV. FIT's Executive Director is Tammy Russell-Rice, formerly Deputy Executive Director of the Nevada Trial Lawyers Association.

FIT's program begins by supplying applications to such organizations as the Woman's Development Center, UNLV Jean Nidetch Center, Community College of Southern Nevada Re-Entry Center and the Displaced Homemaker Program of H.E.L.P. of Southern Nevada. The centers will then refer candidates from their programs to FIT.

There is no duplication of services. FIT will pick up where the other services end.

Blumen spoke passionately about the average candidate, a single mother with two children, who is trapped by a system that takes them from welfare to a minimum wage job. Said Blumen, "none of these women can ever achieve independence with a minimum wage job." It is FIT's goal to take their applicants to the point where they are earning at least $10 an hour, the smallest amount needed for these women to have an independent life.

Those who get into the FIT program will be coached on everything from their personal appearance to filling out a resume and a job application. They will be tested by vocational counselors to assess their goals and needs. A cadre of experts will determine if the goals are realistic, and give advice and support. A FIT "store" will supply clothing and accessories. It's a terrific first step for a problem that just continues to grow.

In addition to funds, FIT needs volunteers. If you would like to be a part of FIT or want additional information, call 362-8544.