Larry* and Betsy Shapiro
Betsy and Larry* Shapiro both grew up in Cincinnati, from families of Russian descent. They met on a blind date—although they weren’t being matched. Larry later called Betsy for a date and soon after they were married. Larry was a successful entrepreneur, starting off in establishing pharmacies throughout the city. Betsy was also ambitious, and channeled her innovative thinking into her fundraising and volunteer activities. Betsy and Larry have made a significant impact on Cincinnati, through their generosity of resources and time to more organizations than we can list. They have four children who are continuing this tradition of giving.
Beneficiary organizations- Jewish Federation of Cincinnati
- Cedar Village Foundation
- Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
I’ve always thought that being involved is a necessary part of being Jewish. It’s part of our responsibility to the community, and just the right thing to do.
Larry and I have gotten tremendous joy from watching what some of our endowments have done for people over the years. I’ve had the opportunity to watch how scholarships at Hebrew Union College and the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy have impacted young students, or how an aquatics center at Cedar Village has improved the lives of the residents there.
I’ve watched how a project, In Larry’s Memory, helping convicted felons get back on their feet can dramatically lower recidivism. I’ve seen how Lighthouse Youth Services is making strides to eradicate homelessness.
We were early supporters of the Freedom Center because it is a museum of tolerance. I was born in Kentucky and thought that history of slavery and emancipation was an important story to tell.
Larry was a good and giving person, and I have tried to continue with his interests as well as expand my own.
I’m happy to be involved—in the community at large, as well as in the Jewish community. Personally I get more from it than what I give, seeing the good results.
Our children are continuing these values in their own communities, and that’s our proudest legacy.
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