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Charles Joffe-Halpern

The will to believe health care is for all

Town: Williamstown

Age: 52

Birth date: November 29, 1949

Birthplace: Syracuse, N.Y.

Occupation: Program administrator, Ecu-Health Care

How I would describe myself: Committed to my work -- it feels more like a calling and not a job. Engaged in the community.

Current volunteerism, board memberships, etc.: Board of directors of Health Care For All (Boston), Medical Care Advisory Committee to the Medicaid Commissioner, Board of Williamstown Chamber Concerts.

Family: Wife, Ellen, an art therapist and college instructor; daughter, Rebecca, a senior at Wesleyan University; son, Noah, a sophomore at Clark University.

Education: Masters in Social Welfare from SUNY-Albany

Personal hero/role model: Former State Representative John E. McDonough

Why is this person a hero/role model to you? Single-handedly developed and implemented legislation which reduced the number of uninsured by a third in 1996.

Personal achievement(s) of which you are most proud: Development of Ecu-Health Care Program that has provided over $850,000 of care to over 1,550 Northern Berkshire residents and referred over 4,000 other residents to other public health programs.

Personal quote/trademark expression: “Make things happen!”

The best advice you can give someone: Never give up, always look for options, opportunities, and partner with others.

Most recent book read and author’s name: “Nickel and Dimed in America,” by Barbara Ehrenreich

Favorite radio show: “All Things Considered,” National Public Radio

Pet peeve: People without enthusiasm.

Hobbies/interests: Blues harmonica, landscape photography