Jim Hudak Sets an Example for Other Leaders to Follow
Jim Hudak Sets an Example for Other Leaders to Follow
Jim Hudak, former Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Paradigm, has donated $1 million to establish the Kids’ Chance of America Endowment Program, the largest individual contribution received by the organization.
Hudak is a longtime supporter of Kids’ Chance, a 501(c)(3) organization that provides educational opportunities and scholarships for the children of workers seriously injured or killed on the job. He says these traumatic events devastate the entire family and is an advocate for employers supporting these families through Kids’ Chance and its programs.
"Kids' Chance has grown from being something almost nobody knew about to becoming the charity for the industry,” says Hudak, who established a scholarship fund with his fiancée Sally Sylvia. “I think it is important for senior executives to add to this endowment. That’s what I’d like to see as a long-term legacy for Kids' Chance."
During Hudak’s tenure as CEO of Paradigm, the company donated more than $850,000 to Kids’ Chance organizations. Paradigm is also the largest corporate donor to Kids’ Chance of America.
Kevin Turner, president of Kids' Chance of America, says Hudak’s foresight and devotion helped to transform the organization and make it the leader it’s become.
“Leaders lead by inspiring others and Jim is truly an inspiration,” he said. “Jim and Sally did this not only to provide scholarships for children but to set an example and inspire others to support Kids’ Chance and nurture our mission of helping children in need.”
Hudak is also the 2018 recipient of the Robert M. Clyatt Distinguished Service Award, presented to an individual who supports the Kids’ Chance mission every day, helps connect members of the Kids’ Chance community to improve the organization’s collective impact, and demonstrates integrity.
Turner said Hudak embodies the Kids’ Chance vision of a time when all children impacted by a parent’s work-related injury or death can pursue their educational dreams without financial burden.
“His passion, enthusiasm and generosity have made and continue to make a tremendous positive impact on Kids’ Chance and the families we serve,” he said.