1919-2019

The Abraham Krasnoff Courage and Commitment Awardee, 2012

Joan Saltzman was the embodiment of inspiring leadership, civic responsibility and generous philanthropy. As an advocate and activist, she showed rare courage and commitment in working to protect Long Island’s and New York State’s most vulnerable residents, combat discriminatory policies and practices, and strengthen and expand health and human services.

A graduate of Barnard College, Ms. Saltzman had a significant impact on health and mental health services. Her efforts laid the foundation for citizen involvement and equal access by persons of differing ages, races, backgrounds and abilities to improved resources, including safe, supportive and affordable housing.

On the state level, between 1973 and 1985, Ms. Saltzman served as a member of key state policy and planning bodies, including the NYS Health Coordinating Council; the NYS Office of Mental Hygiene Planning Council; as Chairperson of the Special Housing Task Force of the Office of Mental Hygiene Council on Citizen Participation; and as Co-Chair of the NYS Special Mental Health Committee of the Task Force for the Development of Community Residential and Rehabilitation Programs. On the local level, she served as Planning Chair of the Nassau County Mental Health Board.

In 1960, Ms. Saltzman helped found the North Shore Child & Family Guidance Association, serving as a board member and also president. In 1972, she co-founded Community Advocates, a non-profit organization that has been a major catalyst for social and racial justice, affordable housing and housing for homeless individuals and families on Long Island. She served as president for 14 years and still serves on its board and executive committee. She was a founder of the Long Island Community Foundation in 1978, serving on its board and grants committee for more than 30 years, and also a founder of the Long Island Fund for Women and Girls (recently renamed the Long Island Women’s Fund).

Ms. Saltzman became a well-known expert in the development of apartments and group homes within the community for persons leaving psychiatric institutions and persons with emotional and developmental disabilities. Starting in the early 1980’s, she founded Long Island's first residence for children with autism and related disabilities, and then founded residences for teens and for adults with special needs.

Ms. Saltzman and her husband, Ambassador Arnold A. Saltzman, shared a lifelong dedication to helping people in need. In 1991, through their vision and generosity, a new facility was built on the Hofstra University campus to house child development and outreach programs for families and children from Hempstead and surrounding communities. In recognition of their support, the University named the facility the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center. 

Ms. Saltzman has been the recipient of numerous awards for her social justice advocacy, community activism and humanitarian service.