Aggie Hoskin: Honoring Philanthropic Leadership in Our Community

The Community West Foundation ‘Art of Caring’ Award

Community West Foundation annually honors philanthropic leadership in our community with its highest honor: The Art of Caring Award.

This year’s Art of Caring Award recipient is Aggie Hoskin, a compassionate and faith-driven woman who has touched the lives of countless children through the Jennifer Fund, a Donor Advised Fund at the Community West Foundation.

Coming from humble beginnings in rural Scotland, Indiana, Aggie learned a priceless life lesson from her family – that by sharing with others you realize how much you have.

Aggie’s social activism bloomed during her college years at St. John’s College, where she advocated for civil and social rights. She went on to earn multiple post-graduate degrees, including a Master’s from the Cleveland State College of Urban Affairs.

In 1966, Aggie married Tom Hoskin and became the mother of three children; Jennifer, Christopher and Elizabeth. She realized her life’s calling by becoming an elementary school teacher while also maintaining active involvement in numerous social programs including the West Side Catholic Center. Her long-standing devotion to women and children’s needs was forged, notably through her oversight of renovation of the Moriah House, the Women and Children’s Shelter at The West Side Catholic Center.

Aggie retired to devote attention to her daughter, Jennifer, who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Sadly, Jennifer passed away in 2007, leaving behind her husband, Doug, and three sons.

Aggie and Tom opened The Jennifer Fund – a Donor Advised Fund – at the Community West Foundation to celebrate her life.

Jennifer had a special place in her heart for children. So ‘The Jennifer Fund’ was founded to assist children in poverty. The fund is leaving its mark on many organizations, including Greater Cleveland Foodbank, St. Colman Church, Malachi Center and the West Side Catholic Center.

Support for the Jennifer Fund is proudly embraced by Aggie’s children, Elizabeth and Christopher, as well as Jennifer’s husband, Doug. There motto: “To Help a Child Have a Better Tomorrow.”

The loss of Jennifer was magnified by the loss of Aggie’s husband, Tom, in 2014. Despite her personal challenges, Aggie continues in her commitment of compassion in helping others. A parishioner at St. Colman Church for many years, Aggie is also a member of The Congregation of St. Joseph, a community of women dedicated to the love of God and neighbor. Whether providing support or opportunities for those less fortunate, particularly our youth, Aggie continues to eagerly put her talents to good work, leaving a meaningful and charitable legacy throughout our community.

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