A Lifetime and Legacy of Support For Rosecrance
Robbie Mink (holding microphone) is flanked by family members as she speaks about her late husband, John Mink.
All of us have a cause at some point in our lives; we spend time, energy and passion on these causes because we believe in them wholeheartedly. Kids. Careers. Peace. Politics. Volunteering. The list is limitless. Some of us may even spend a lifetime devoted to our particular cause. That was certainly the case for John and Roberta Mink, who contributed more than four decades worth of support and vision to Rosecrance.
The couple became involved with Rosecrance in 1972. Rosecrance Memorial Homes for Children, at that time, served boys with behavioral issues who often came from broken homes.
Friends invited the Minks on Feb. 25, 1972, to join the Rosecrance Corps, a group of eight couples who did service projects for Rosecrance and spent quality time with the boys. They went camping, played games and were known for making birthday cakes for the children.
John became a long time Rosecrance board member and former board president and, together, the couple influenced many Rosecrance projects and facilities, and directed support to the Rosecrance Endowment to ensure long-term financial stability.
In 2015 their name graced a special project, The John & Roberta Mink Pavilion, which honors their dedication to the organization. The 26-by-40-foot heavy timber pavilion provides a roof over picnic tables that can seat 48 people. The perimeter stone wall offers additional seating for clients, staff and visitors.
ohn and Roberta have both since passed away, but their lifetime of service still lives on. As long time members of the 1916 Society, they both left planned gifts in their wills to honor the mission of Rosecrance end ensure the vision they worked toward is carried out far into the future. Their commitment even inspired a friend to fund memorial scholarships to help Rosecrance alumni who are seeking a higher education.
Because of the philanthropic support and trailblazer spirit of the Minks, and other generous donors who make planned gifts—both large and small—Rosecrance continues to provide hope to children, youth, adults and families as a national leader in behavioral health treatment.