A Tribute to Miriam Stahl,
July 9, 1932-September 5, 2020
Executive Director 1987- 1997
Miriam Stahl served as our Executive Director for a decade, a remarkable tenure of service, vision and leadership. Our organization simply would not be what it is today without her passionate belief in the power of early intervention.
According to her son Dan, Miriam was a “mother, grandmother, confidant, relentless non-judgmental advocate, and friend.” She peacefully passed away in Vancouver, Washington on September 5, 2020 with family at her side. She was 88.
Executive Director Peggy Small-Porter remembers Miriam as a colleague, mentor, and generous leader: “I am so proud to also call her my friend. She led by example, always ready to listen, make tough decisions, and empower every member of our team. Our staff is honored to continue her legacy of dedication to hard work on behalf of young children and their families.”
Miriam, a transplanted mid-westerner, moved to New Hampshire to be near her own family, and found the perfect position for her talent and determination at Richie McFarland. She "always tried to do what she could to improve the world around her, and she believed deeply in the mission of Richie McFarland," says her daughter, Jamie. According to her son Mark, “Miriam spent a load of time trying to get funds for the Center and getting folks to prioritize the needs of children. It was a tough battle. This directorship was her last full-time job and after retirement, she decided to stay in New Hampshire. She taught us, over the years, to be optimistic, have faith, trust in your own special abilities, and be active.”
“This wonderful woman graced our lives
and encouraged us to be our best selves.”
– son Dan
"My mother really valued her colleagues at Richie McFarland, many of whom became close friends the remainder of her life."
– daughter Jamie
Richie McFarland Children's Center's MIRIAM STAHL FUND
Lending Families a Hand
The Miriam Stahl Family Assistance Fund was established in 1997 to honor Miriam Stahl’s decade of service and retirement. This fund provides short-term assistance for families we serve who are facing a financial crisis. We have helped with many needs, including assistance with medical bills, groceries, car repairs, heating costs, childcare and housing. We try to be as flexible as possible and consider every request which in a typical year can total $3,000 to $4,000. To date, the fund has covered all the requests that have come our way. In several instances, families who have received support have donated back to the fund once their crisis has passed.
If you would like to honor the dedication and love Miriam showed to children and families through her courageous and selfless leadership of RMCC, we invite you to make a donation to the Miriam Stahl fund.
Thank you!
