A decade ago, media outlet City & State began publishing its inaugural “50 Over 50” awards, honoring 50 exemplary individuals each year over the age of 50. According to City & State, the award recognizes “the record of achievement of these outstanding figures, who have distinguished themselves in academia, advocacy, business, government, organized labor and other fields and professions.”
This year, the publication looked back at previous honorees, and “reconnected” with 50 of them to see the progress they made since first appearing on the list. Ira Goldstein, Executive Director of The Black Car Fund, once again made the cut.
“Goldstein had been an attorney when the tech bubble burst at the turn of the century, and he moved into city government at the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission, where he eventually became its chief of staff,” noted City & State. “Goldstein took his passion for public service to [The Black Car Fund], helping it grow beyond its original mission of providing workers’ compensation coverage.”
Among the new services Goldstein has pioneered are defensive driving and wellness classes (which drivers are paid to attend), quality dental and vision plans, and personal accident insurance.
“We’ve expanded what we can provide the drivers,” Goldstein explained. “They are independent contractors and overwhelmingly an immigrant community.”
Outside of work, Goldstein is active with the Simon Wiesenthal Center, which combats antisemitism, and as his condo board vice president.
Source: City & State
