◈ Homepage — https://blueheronfoundation.org/Skip to content DONATE WHAT WE DO ABOUT US IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login We serve humanity, one individual at a time, by providing higher education, modern medical treatments and community-building programs. years of experience 19 + children helped 2,878 + alumni 575 + ukrainian refugees helped 4,797 + mentors 240 + million raised $ 3.8 + Stefania Magidson meets with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue, and share stories about Blue Heron Foundation Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy Humanitarian Award BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy of Compassion & Impact Award 2025 Summer camp at Rasnov August 2025: BH teams travels throughout Romania and Moldova Stefania Magidson meets with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue, and share stories about Blue Heron Foundation Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy Humanitarian Award BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy of Compassion & Impact Award 2025 Summer camp at Rasnov August 2025: BH teams travels throughout Romania and Moldova Stefania Magidson meets with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue, and share stories about Blue Heron Foundation Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy Humanitarian Award Nadia Comaneci & Bart Conner Anastasia Soare Neil Leifer Alexandra Nechita Leigh Bantivoglio Lisa Gerrard Maria Elena Attila Sandra Sergiu Razvan Otilia Deniz Iulian Alexandra Andrei Simona Bot M.D. Alex Bâcu Ildiko Magyari Dragos Ursu Andra Ardeleanu Adina Dabija Anca Chiritescu Florentina Marcu Yanina Ruslan si Anghelina Natalia Mariia Taran Yana Donate Support our organization and donate today. 100% of your donation goes directly to our beneficiaries since the founders cover ALL administrative costs. DONATE Become a mentor Each mentor is paired with a student, becoming both advisor and friend. Our mentors consistently tell us that while guiding a student their own lives have been transformed. Apply >> Subscribe to our newsletter Subscribe Read our newsletter Women of Influence Summit 2026 Chicago March 2026 Blue Heron’s Winter Newsletter December, 2025 More >> Apply for a Scholarship In 2005, Blue Heron started the University Scholarship and Mentorship Program targeting vulnerable youth in Romania and Moldova. APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Contact us We look forward to hearing from you. “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the smallest intention.” Oscar Wilde Contact >> Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 ◈ Interior Pages — 28 pages crawledContact - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Contact Fill out the form and a team member will contact you as soon as possible. I agree with the privacy policy of the website Contact info Blue Heron Fundation Corporate Headquarters U.S. 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212 Phone: +1310 702 2038 Fax: 310-275-2253 E: [email protected] Fundatia Blue Heron Romania Bd. Octavian Goga Nr. 23, Bl. M 106 Sc. 3 Et.1 Ap. 72, Sector 3, Bucharest 030984 Romania Phone: +40 745 709 411 E: [email protected] Fundatia Blue Heron Republica Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Phone: +373 690 9818 E: [email protected] Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Donate - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Donate Please activate JavaScript to continue with your donation. Choose an amount * $ 50 $ 100 $ 250 $ 500 $ 1,000 Other $ Donation plan * One-time Monthly Quarterly Yearly Choose an option One-time Monthly Quarterly Yearly Donate from Donate for the Blue Heron scholarship program $660 covers monthly stipend for one student/ 1 year $800 college fees for one student/ 1 year $1,460 covers college fees and monthly stipend for one student/1 year $2,400 covers college fees for one medical student/ 1 year $14,000 covers our 1 week long summer camp for 25 students Manage Recurring Donations — OR — Donor details First name  * Last name  * Country / Region  * Select a country / region… Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belau Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Saint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo (Brazzaville) Congo (Kinshasa) Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Ivory Coast Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palestinian Territory Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russia Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin (Dutch part) Saint Martin (French part) Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia/Sandwich Islands South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Türkiye Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom (UK) United States (US) United States (US) Minor Outlying Islands Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands (British) Virgin Islands (US) Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Update country / region Street address  * City, State and zip code  * Phone number  * Email address  * Notes  (optional) Company name (for matching gifts):  (optional) Additional information Donation notes  (optional) Your donation Donation Amount $ 0.00 Credit / Debit Card Use a new payment method Save payment information to my account for future purchases. PayPal Pay via PayPal. Venmo Click the button below and follow the instructions to pay with Venmo Bank Transfer Please email [email protected] so we can send you the wire instrucitons. Check payments Please write your check to “Blue Heron Foundation” and mail to: Blue Heron Foundation 269 S. Beverly Drive Suite 435 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 DAF - Donor Advised Fund Please write your check to “Blue Heron Foundation” and mail to: EIN # 41-2054373 Blue Heron Foundation 269 S. Beverly Drive Suite 435 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Please activate JavaScript to continue with your donation. Update totals Your personal data will be used to process your order, support your experience throughout this website, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy . Renew subscription Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Donate - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Donate Please activate JavaScript to continue with your donation. Choose an amount * $ 50 $ 100 $ 250 $ 500 $ 1,000 Other $ Donation plan * One-time Monthly Quarterly Yearly Choose an option One-time Monthly Quarterly Yearly Donate from Donate for the Blue Heron scholarship program $660 covers monthly stipend for one student/ 1 year $800 college fees for one student/ 1 year $1,460 covers college fees and monthly stipend for one student/1 year $2,400 covers college fees for one medical student/ 1 year $14,000 covers our 1 week long summer camp for 25 students Manage Recurring Donations — OR — Donor details First name  * Last name  * Country / Region  * Select a country / region… Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belau Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Saint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo (Brazzaville) Congo (Kinshasa) Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Ivory Coast Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palestinian Territory Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russia Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin (Dutch part) Saint Martin (French part) Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia/Sandwich Islands South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Türkiye Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom (UK) United States (US) United States (US) Minor Outlying Islands Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands (British) Virgin Islands (US) Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Update country / region Street address  * City, State and zip code  * Phone number  * Email address  * Notes  (optional) Company name (for matching gifts):  (optional) Additional information Donation notes  (optional) Your donation Donation Amount $ 0.00 Credit / Debit Card Use a new payment method Save payment information to my account for future purchases. PayPal Pay via PayPal. Venmo Click the button below and follow the instructions to pay with Venmo Bank Transfer Please email [email protected] so we can send you the wire instrucitons. Check payments Please write your check to “Blue Heron Foundation” and mail to: Blue Heron Foundation 269 S. Beverly Drive Suite 435 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 DAF - Donor Advised Fund Please write your check to “Blue Heron Foundation” and mail to: EIN # 41-2054373 Blue Heron Foundation 269 S. Beverly Drive Suite 435 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Please activate JavaScript to continue with your donation. Update totals Your personal data will be used to process your order, support your experience throughout this website, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy . Renew subscription Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Community Building Programs, US - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Community Building Programs, US Community Building Programs, US We are pairing with local organizations and humanitarians for grassroots collaboration projects. Please contact us at [email protected] Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Students - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Students STUDENTS Maria-Elena “My acceptance into the Blue Heron Foundation and Family is one of the most precious gifts I have ever received. It will always be an accomplishment that I will cherish forever. I find myself waiting impatiently for every Blue Heron meeting, eager to attend and be part of ‘my family.’ Each meeting helps me as I struggle with life difficulties and I leave accepting and appreciating myself. These meetings have provided me with a new way of reaching myself with beautiful values; they fill me with joy, empowering me and awakening my senses of gratitude for what I had and what I have at present. Although I thought the time was my enemy, with patience, I now understand that it is my best friend!” Maria-Elena, Blue Heron scholarship recipient since 2019 Ovidius University Faculty of Medicine, Constanta Attila When I heard that I had been awarded a scholarship from Blue Heron Foundation, I was very happy. I didn’t realize that I was also going to gain a mentor, a lifelong friend who would become my “guardian” from across the ocean. We quickly became friends because Ildikó knew how to communicate with a Transylvanian “Szekler” since she is also a Hungarian from Transylvania. My first year at university was very difficult because I had to learn the Romanian language. But my new friend was there to help me, and we spent lots of time together Attila, B.S. Faculty of Automatic Control and Computer Science Technical University of Cluj-Napoca Blue Heron scholarship recipient since 2019 Sandra When I received the email with the news that a mentor had been found for me, I admit I was very excited but also a little scared because I didn’t know exactly what this mentorship entailed. I was not a person who sat down to think and reflect on what had happened the previous month, and above all, I never cared to share my experiences –pleasant or less pleasant – with anyone. Yet it was writing to Ms. Florentina in my activity diary every single month that helped me develop, which is the most important thing for me. My personal development took place through the discussions I had with Mrs. Florentina. It was the courage and trust she instilled in me, along with her advice, that ultimately helped me become a more motivated and brave person, able to achieve my goals (improve my English, lead a healthier lifestyle). In addition to this, I believe that her positive and constructive feedback helped me in my emotional development as well as in the development of my leadership skills, which I was able to use at my workplace. That’s why I want to especially thank Ms. Florentina who was by my side whenever I needed it and the entire BLUE HERON team for all the work and all the effort they put in for us young people who want to achieve something in our lives. Sandra, BH scholarship recipient since 2019 BA, Faculty of Social Work, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca Second year MA in Justice, Probation and Mediation Sergiu “For me, this master’s degree program, which I have successfully completed, has meant a dream that many years ago, I couldn’t even imagine. I had to overcome numerous obstacles and now to my immense joy, I find myself in this amazing moment, having gathered so much information and experience! Blue Heron Foundation and my mentor, Ms. Doina Blaj, were like two mothers, always ready to come to my aid, to be by my side, to guide me as I worked toward creating a wonderful future for myself. They opened my eyes and gave me courage and ambition, taught me that even rain clouds part and that when they don’t, I should dance in the rain rather than wait for it to stop. I want to thank you for every single thing, for every moment of empathy toward me, for the trust you had in me and for helping me see more clearly with every step I took. I also want to thank all the people who are part of and support the Foundation.” Sergiu, BH Student since 2018 M.A. Physical Therapy and Nutrition Razvan I first met Dragoș virtually, in the summer of 2020. The BH team chose my mentor very well! Distance did not matter because we knew how to communicate and forged a long-lasting friendship. Every time Dragos read my monthly journal he gave me feedback and encouragement. I liked that Dragoș told me about his own student days and I felt that he understood my current situation very well. He greatly appreciated my involvement in various activities. I thank the BH team for all the support they have given me during my 3 years as a scholarship student. Through the team, I learned to get involved in various activities, at first because of the contract I signed where I was asked to volunteer, and later because I wanted to. My monthly journal really helped me grow and develop personally. I would like to thank Cristina Porsega for her involvement in the group she leads. She was amazing! Razvan, BH scholarship recipient 2019-2012 MS in Construction Geodesy, Univ Politehnica Timisoara Otilia In general, I am good at describing certain aspects of my life or writing about the people around me. But it has taken me a long time to find the right words to explain the effect my mentor, Mrs. Anca, has had on me, as well as my deep respect for her. Ever since I was accepted as a Blue Heron scholarship student, I have felt as if someone from above was taking care of me. Mrs. Anca took that wonderful feeling to a whole new level. Her simple yet powerful act of taking time to communicate with me has made a great difference in my life and I will always be grateful for the relationship we forged over the past year. Otilia, B.S. Psychology, Ovidius University, Constanta BH scholarship recipient since 2021 Deniz Since this is my final diary entry, I want to share a few of my BH experiences with you. BH brought me joy and more than that, love, appreciation and acceptance. During my six years as a fellow, I endured many obstacles, mental fatigue, health and emotional issues, and more. When I plummeted to the darkest depths, it was through BH that I found people ready to support me and help me see the light. I thank my mentor Vlad Feier, Andreea Muraru, Cristina and many other BH personnel who have been so important as I studied and trained. Deniz, 2022 graduate School of Horticulture, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj Iulian “My name is Iulian. I’m a student at the National University of Physical Education and Sport, and I’m proud to say that Blue Heron has had a very positive effect on my life. When I was accepted in the summer of 2021, I just knew that a lot of good things were going to come my way. My monthly activity journals helped me reflect on what I’ve done so far and allowed me to see how I’ve exceeded my own expectations. My mentor is also very important to me because I always get support, no matter how much help I need. Thank you!” Iulian, Blue Heron scholarship recipient since 2021 National University of Physical Education and Sport, Bucharest Alexandra I met Andra in 2018 and I still remember that she invited me to Manuc’s Inn, where we spent a wonderful evening getting to know each other, sharing a bit of our lives. I was a newly accepted scholarship student with great emotions and endless expectations. Despite the emotions, Andra, with a big, warm smile, gave me a welcome that eased my initial anxiety. The first years under Andra’s mentorship were full of learning, adaptation and a lo Donor login - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Donor login Username or Email Address Password Remember Me Log In Register Lost your password? Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Patients - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Patients PATIENTS Yanina “My name is Yana and I am a 31-year-old woman from Ukraine. My struggle with breast cancer began just as war ravaged my country. My city, Kyiv, suffered from shelling, so my treatment and chance for recovery was very low. In an online group for Ukrainian cancer patients, I read that Blue Heron Foundation was sending patients to Romania for treatment. Without hesitation I wrote them a letter. And unexpectedly, and very quickly, I received an answer that they were ready to help me with my treatment and relocation. I traveled with my nine-year-old son Max and thanks to the wonderful people who organized everything, I did not feel any fatigue during the long journey. Yanina, 31 years old, breast cancer patient Ruslan and Anghelina In the summer of 2022, Blue Heron heard about two siblings aged 4 and 10, both diagnosed with a rare blood cancer that required difficult and expensive bone marrow transplantation only available abroad. The children’s mother is Ukrainian, from Crimea and their father is from Transnistria, a semi-autonomous region in eastern Moldova that is not internationally recognized. The children did not have Ukrainian nationality, making them ineligible for free medical care in Europe, and Moldova’s health system was not advanced enough to provide the treatments they desperately needed. When Blue Heron took on this unique challenge, we were fortunate to have Dr. Horia Vulpe and Dr. Irena Tocino ready to use their contacts and expertise. The two doctors collaborated with New York-based NGO Grace Children’s Foundation and over the next months worked with the pediatric hospital “Bambino Gesù” in Rome to have the children accepted for treatment. We are thrilled to report that the first child is already in Rome with his father, receiving life-saving cancer therapy. We believe all children should have access to quality cancer care irrespective of their nationality. Ruslan and Anghelina, leukemia patients Natalia “I’m Nataliia Brovarska. I live in Dnipro, Ukraine, and I’ve been fighting cancer for three years. The war made it very difficult for me to get treatment and my last hope was the Blue Heron Foundation. I reached out to them and they took care of everything. Ludmila arranged to have my medical documents translated into Romanian and Cristina met me when I arrived in Romania. He found me an apartment and within two days, scheduled a doctor’s appointment for me. I was very impressed with his work. Valentina accompanied me to my appointments, which was a great help. I’m very grateful to the Blue Heron team because they gave me the hope to keep on living. Thank you for the Cancer Care Program you have set up for Ukrainian patients. God bless you all!” Natalia, 62 years old Mariia “I’m Mariia, the daughter of Nataliia B. You arranged for my mother to have cancer treatment in Romania. I would like to thank you for everything you did for my family. You gave my mother a chance to defeat cancer. Blue Heron Foundation team has supported my parents during this difficult period. I’ll never forget your support and kindness.” A message from the daughter of one of our Cancer Care Program patients Mariia, daughter of Blue Heron cancer patient, Natalia Taran “I am still trying to find the best words to express my gratitude for what Blue Heron has done for my father and therefore my family. But such words have not yet been invented, because your team has done the impossible! I didn’t think anything would work out, because I’m not in my own country and am living in a city where I don’t know anyone. But then the impossible happened: a doctor with the heart and hands of an angel operated on my father and now my father has been home for three days and we cannot believe his happiness. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your invaluable support and help to my family – and other families in Ukraine. Blue Heron gives people in dire need a chance to believe there is good in this world so they can love it again.” Patient’s daughter: Natalia Taran, 78 year old, colon cancer patient Yana I would like to thank Blue Heron foundation and their wonderful staff who arranged for me to receive life-saving therapy in Romania. In war-torn Ukraine it was impossible for me to get the medicine I needed for the postoperative treatment of my breast cancer. First of all I would like to thank Cristian, who was a wizard at organizing doctor visits, documentation, analyses, accommodation, and who supported us on an ongoing basis. Christian, you made it all work out! Victoria was also great, providing much-needed translation, along with coordinating various other intimidating tasks in a timely fashion. I also appreciate Ludmila’s help during the initial stages of procuring treatment. Romania itself was a great discovery for us, and we found the people and city of Iasi to be most wonderful. Once again, we thank Blue Heron and the marvelous staff who made sure I received my treatment. I am so happy that I will be able to see my daughter go to school. Yana, age 36 with her daughter and husband along with BH coordinator Cristian Teglas (red shirt). Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu US team - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ US team US team Stefania Magidson – President Stefania Magidson was born in Romania and in 1983 immigrated with her family to the United States. After receiving degrees in Health Education and Applied Psychology, she founded Blue Heron Foundation (2002), one of the largest non-profit organizations in the Romanian diaspora. The organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life of Romanian and Moldovan orphaned youth by providing them merit based college scholarships and a mentorship program. At the onset of the Ukrainian war, Stefania quickly pivoted and expanded Blue Heron’s efforts, raising over $600,000 and developing 12 refugee relief programs. These initiatives vary in complexity, from transportation at the border and organizing caravans of medicine to Ukrainian hospitals, to their most complex effort to date: Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program. In December 2018, Stefania presented Blue Heron at INK Talks in Hyderabad, India’s foremost platform for the exchange of inspiring stories and cutting-edge ideas. In April 2022 she received the South East European Film Festival Legacy Humanitarian Award during the opening night of the 17th Annual Film Festival. Stefania lives in Los Angeles with her husband Mark and their two sons. Alex Bâcu – VP Fundraising & Community, East Coast Born and raised in Bucharest, Romania, Alex came to the United States on a scholarship to study at Amherst College in Massachusetts. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a B.A. in Economics and Fine Arts in 2003. After a brief stint in Investment Banking at Lehman Brothers, he moved to his current position as a Senior Research Equity Analyst and Associate Portfolio Manager at Neuberger Berman in New York City with a primary focus on the Technology, Media and Telecom sector. Alex is also involved as an advisor to and/or investor in several early stage start-ups in the Internet and Beauty Products sectors. Alex Bâcu is a CFA(r) charterholder. Simona Bot M.D. – VP Fundraising & Community Outreach, West Coast Simona graduated from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania, with an M.D. degree in 1993. She worked on the treatment of autoimmune diseases, on DNA vaccines against the influenza virus and RNA based immune modulating agents and has held positions at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Alliance Pharmaceutical Company, Multicell Therapeutics and other biotech companies. Simona has published over a dozen scholarly articles and presented her work at international conferences. She has always been passionate about helping others, and when she met Stefania in 2011, it was only natural for her to begin working as a mentor for Blue Heron Foundation. Since then, she has taken on an increasingly intensive role in advocating, recruiting, and fundraising for the foundation. Irena Tocino M.D. – Medical Program Director Yale professor, Dr. Irena Tocino is taking a sabbatical to coordinate Blue Heron’s Medical Program in Romania (Suceava & Iasi) starting April 7 th . Her years of administration experience as Vice chair, leading teams, creating solutions and responding to challenges within the health care system will be invaluable on the field; “It is difficult, as a doctor, to watch so much human suffering and not to be able to help. I really wanted to make myself useful and thought of the incredible work Blue Heron has done for years. I contacted Stefania Magidson and learned that BH has been able to quickly redirect funding efforts, infrastructure and volunteers to meet the urgent needs of refugees and hospitals. I immediately offered my experience and resources to help BH on the ground with coordination, assessing needs, both acute and long term for the millions affected by this devastating and senseless war.” Irena Tocino MD, FACR Department of Radiology, Yale School of Medicine Horia Vulpe M.D – Director , Cancer Care Program Dr. Vulpe spent his early childhood in Romania before moving to Canada, where he completed studies in medicine and residency training in radiation oncology. Dr. Vulpe practiced at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, at Columbia University in New York, and at the Queen’s Cancer Center in Honolulu, where he was also director of quality and patient safety. With the onset of the war, Dr. Vulpe relocated to Europe to better help displaced Ukrainians in Moldova, Romania, Ukraine, get the quality cancer care they deserve. He manages an international team of coordinators, translators, and partner clinics that operate for the benefit of Ukrainian cancer patients. Dr. Vulpe is also an advisor to the director of the Institute of Oncology in Chisinau, Moldova, collaborating on research, education, and quality improvement. For his work in global oncology, Dr. Vulpe was awarded the ASCO Global Oncology Young Investigator Award, the McGill Medicine Young Alumnus Award, and the Robert Sheppard Award for Health Equity and Social Justice. Dr. Vulpe enjoys teaching residents and medical students and received the ‘2019 Educator of the Year’ award from the American Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology. He remains affiliated with the Queen’s Cancer Center as a part time radiation oncologist and patient safety officer. Anne Cherian – Writer/ Content Manager Anne Cherian was born in India to an American mother and Indian father and came to UC Berkeley where she received Master’s Degrees in Comparative Literature and in Journalism. She is the author of A Good Indian Wife (she says the title tells you it’s definitely fiction!) and The Invitation . She is currently writing a coming of age story told from the perspective of a servant woman’s daughter. Anne grew up watching her mother work with Mother Theresa, the Sisters of Mercy, knit socks for soldiers, teach poor people English, etc. Anne met Stefania at their sons’ school event, and when she heard about Blue Heron, offered her services as a writer/editor/content manager. “I’m thrilled to be part of a team that is helping those who are truly in need. My mother used to take me to a village once a year so I could know, first-hand, how lucky I am. Blue Heron lifts the underprivileged and I’m grateful to be a small part of this selfless organization. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu In the news - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ In the news Subscribe You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again. News BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy of Compassion & Impact Award News We are honored to share wonderful news with our community. Our founder, Stefania Magidson, has been selected to receive the... Read Full Story... 2025 Summer camp at Rasnov News The 2025 Blue Heron Summer Camp started with gentle morning stretches and a shared breakfast, with participants mingling and starting... Read Full Story... August 2025: BH teams travels throughout Romania and Moldova News Every year, the Blue Heron Foundation team, including U.S.-based founder, Stefania Magidson, travels throughout Romania and the Republic of Moldova with a... Read Full Story... Stefania Magidson meets with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue, and share stories about Blue Heron Foundation News , News & Articles U.S. In Paris, Stefania Magidson was honored to meet with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue, and share stories about Blue Heron... Read Full Story... Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees News Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees completes its tour de force: almost $500,000 raised from grants and private... Read Full Story... BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy Humanitarian Award News “We are honoring with our Legacy Award one of our long-time supporters, Stefania Magidson, the founder and president of the Blue Heron Foundation. Not... Read Full Story... Load More End of Content. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu August 2025: BH teams travels throughout Romania and Moldova - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ August 2025: BH teams travels throughout Romania and Moldova Every year, the  Blue Heron Foundation  team, including U.S.-based founder, Stefania Magidson, travels throughout Romania and the Republic of Moldova with a carefully planned itinerary. And every year, while the schedule is followed, unexpected and beautiful moments unfold along the way. The summer of 2025 was no different — and it happened on the very first stop:  Bucharest . During an early dinner with members of the extended Blue Heron family — always early, because there are so many stories to share — six alumni made a remarkable announcement: they wished to become mentors for the next generation of students. Their desire to give back was deeply moving and a powerful reminder of the values that define the Blue Heron community. As many may recall, Blue Heron scholarship students are encouraged to volunteer weekly during their studies. Seeing alumni now step forward to guide younger students is a clear reflection that those early lessons in generosity and service have stayed with them. Each summer, the foundation’s leadership immerses itself fully in the  Blue Heron Summer Camp , spending long days — often up to fourteen hours — with the students and participating in the program’s classes and activities. Even after full days of learning and discussions, the students’ energy continued late into the evening with board games and conversations that strengthened the bonds within the Blue Heron family. A significant portion of the trip is dedicated to interviewing prospective scholarship students. While Romanian students are required to complete high school, in the Republic of Moldova schooling is state-mandated only until the age of fifteen. Many of the candidates come from extremely difficult circumstances; some had never even visited a city before. Among them was one young girl whose determination to become a doctor left a lasting impression. It is easy to imagine writing about her accomplishments in the years to come. The foundation is deeply grateful to  Cristina Porsega , Blue Heron’s Program Director, whose dedication ensured that every aspect of the trip ran flawlessly. In September,  25 new Blue Heron scholarship recipients  joined the program. The foundation looks forward to sharing their journeys — and the continued progress of the entire Blue Heron community — in the months and years ahead. August 2024: BH team travels throughout Romania and Moldova BH team travels throughout Romania and Moldova to meet with scholarship recipients and interview new students. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Take Action - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Take Action Matching Funds Many employers sponsor matching gift programs and will match any charitable contributions made by their employees. Often 1 to 1 or even 2 to 1. Find out if your employee has a matching gift policy. Gifts Of Stock We have set-up a commission free account to accept donations in appreciated securities , like publicly traded equities. Donating long term held and highly appreciated publicly traded stocks can be among the most tax advantaged items to donate to charity, because it may enable the donor to potentially avoid the capital gain tax liability associated with the sale of the stock, while the foundation receives the full value. Thus contributing the securities directly to the charity instead of selling first and donating the cash proceeds, usually increases the amount of your gift as well as your deduction. So for illustrative purposes assuming you bought stock for $1,000 that is worth $3,000 today and that you held it for longer than a year. If you sold for cash today you would usually owe 23.8% federal capital gain taxes on the $2,000 appreciation (plus potentially additionally state and local taxes). If you donate the stock directly instead, the foundation would receive the stock and sell it tax free thus realizing the full value of $3,000, while you would generally be able to deduct the full $3,000 (assuming the donor itemizes). Some people think that donating stock is a huge hassle that can take a lot of paperwork and phone calls to figure out, but we have streamlined the process and it is easier than you think. If any of you would like to contribute by donating stock, please let us know. Alex Bacu, VP of Fundraising and Community Outreach, West Coast Questions? Please contact [email protected] or call 1-310-702-2038 . Foundraise On Facebook Many of our supporters have chosen to give to Blue Heron in this manner. You can set up a fundraiser to: celebrate your birthday. take advantage of “Giving Tuesdays” by reaching out to your friends set up a challenge, like: a fitness challenge or a Do-It-Yourself project cooking demo live concert The great thing about Facebook is that it covers all processing fees through Network for Good, so we receive 100% of the donation. Click here to find out the exact steps Host a Salon Some of our members have helped expand our circle of supporters by hosting a salon for potential new members. We invite you to contact us at 310-702-2038 or [email protected] to discuss how you can Host a Salon, virtual or in-person. This is an opportunity to invite friends, family, colleagues and anyone else who shares your passion for giving back. Blue Heron Foundation founder will present the organization’s history and goals, facilitate meaningful conversations and answer questions about the cause. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu 2025 Summer camp at Rasnov - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ 2025 Summer camp at Rasnov The 2025 Blue Heron Summer Camp started with gentle morning stretches and a shared breakfast, with participants mingling and starting to get to know one another. Our scholarship recipients come from all across Romania and the Republic of Moldova, and each was ready for new adventures, as was made very clear in the evening when they went horseback riding at the Diana Equitation Center. Some students overcame their fears to go galloping — a truly huge achievement! The day ended with a folk dancing class with all the students kicking up their heels in time to the music. Blue Heron Foundation is proud to give our students experiences that will last a lifetime. Students signed up for different workshops that focused on building healthy relationships. Every activity, from aikido to sharing stories, empowered our students with the confidence and skills they need to be in control of their future. Stefania Magidson gave a special “behind the scenes” presentation. “I want our students to know what goes on from a founder’s perspective,” Stefania said.  Her talk was definitely eye opening, and students gained a new understanding of the foundation that is helping them fly.  2024 Summer camp at Rasnov Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy of Compassion & Impact Award - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy of Compassion & Impact Award We are honored to share wonderful news with our community. Our founder, Stefania Magidson, has been selected to receive the Women of Influence: Legacy of Compassion & Impact Award at the 2026 Women of Influence Summit, hosted by the Chamber for for Romanian American Trade & Industry (CRATI). The summit will take place on March 21, 2026, in the Chicago area. In their announcement, #CRATI wrote: “This honor celebrates a woman whose vision, generosity, and purpose-driven compassion create lasting change. Through the Blue Heron Foundation, your work continues to uplift communities and inspire hope.” For 24 years, Stefania has led Blue Heron with unwavering dedication, supporting vulnerable youth through education, mentorship, and opportunity. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and proud to see her work recognized in this meaningful way. Congratulations, Stefania! Chamber for Romanian American Trade & Industry Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Humanitarian Aid for Ukrainian Refugees - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Humanitarian Aid for Ukrainian Refugees Cancer Care Program for Ukrainian refugees (2022-present), over $500,000. When the Russo-Ukrainian war broke out, BHF partnered with academic and private institutions in Eastern Europe to secure continuity of care and reduce preventable cancer deaths for Ukrainian refugees. Spearheaded by radiation oncologist Dr. Horia Vulpe , BHF’s Cancer Care Program provides financial, logistical and emotional assistance for Ukrainian cancer patients whose care has been jeopardized by the war. Our program assists patients who are unable to receive treatment in Ukraine due to failing healthcare infrastructure, those in Moldova who are ineligible for free health insurance and therefore face high out-of-pocket costs, and patients in Romania who have difficulty accessing and navigating the medical system. As of July 2023, our physicians evaluated over 200 cases and provided assistance to 160 cancer patients, including dozens of evacuations out of Ukraine. We are the largest cancer-focused NGO working in the region. Our program generated international interest, and two articles were published in the European Journal of Cancer, May 2023 and Lancet Oncology, November, 2023. Empower Oncology Program This initiative provides medical education and research in Moldova, focusing on modernizing medical school curriculum, training and on-going education for medical residents and doctors in the area of radiology and radiation oncology in Moldova and Ukraine (2022- present). Underfunded cancer systems in developing countries can struggle to provide modern cancer therapies, working in relative isolation from the international medical community due to language barriers and a lack of interprofessional exchange. This environment presents a significant barrier to modernization, innovation, and medical research. BHF’s educational and research program developed in partnership with the Institute of Oncology in Chisinau, Moldova, has launched several initiatives to modernize medical training and clinical practice in oncology. With the help of BHF’s network of Romanian-speaking physicians, Moldova is now designing its first dedicated training programs in radiation and medical oncology. We are also undertaking research projects to improve the diagnosis and treatment of patients with complex tumors of the head and neck, a type of cancer that is found in high prevalence in the country. These longitudinal partnerships will help improve the quality of care for all Moldovans in the future. Horia Vulpe M.D – Director , Cancer Care Program Dr. Vulpe spent his early childhood in Romania before moving to Canada, where he completed studies in medicine and residency training in radiation oncology. Dr. Vulpe practiced at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, at Columbia University in New York, and at the Queen’s Cancer Center in Honolulu, where he was also director of quality and patient safety. With the onset of the war, Dr. Vulpe relocated to Europe to better help displaced Ukrainians in Moldova, Romania, Ukraine, get the quality cancer care they deserve. He manages an international team of coordinators, translators, and partner clinics that operate for the benefit of Ukrainian cancer patients. Dr. Vulpe is also an advisor to the director of the Institute of Oncology in Chisinau, Moldova, collaborating on research, education, and quality improvement. For his work in global oncology, Dr. Vulpe was awarded the ASCO Global Oncology Young Investigator Award, the McGill Medicine Young Alumnus Award, and the Robert Sheppard Award for Health Equity and Social Justice. Dr. Vulpe enjoys teaching residents and medical students and received the ‘2019 Educator of the Year’ award from the American Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology. He remains affiliated with the Queen’s Cancer Center as a part time radiation oncologist and patient safety officer. Irena Tocino M.D. – Medical Program Director Yale professor, Dr. Irena Tocino is taking a sabbatical to coordinate Blue Heron’s Medical Program in Romania (Suceava & Iasi) starting April 7 th . Her years of administration experience as Vice chair, leading teams, creating solutions and responding to challenges within the health care system will be invaluable on the field; “It is difficult, as a doctor, to watch so much human suffering and not to be able to help. I really wanted to make myself useful and thought of the incredible work Blue Heron has done for years. I contacted Stefania Magidson and learned that BH has been able to quickly redirect funding efforts, infrastructure and volunteers to meet the urgent needs of refugees and hospitals. I immediately offered my experience and resources to help BH on the ground with coordination, assessing needs, both acute and long term for the millions affected by this devastating and senseless war.” Irena Tocino MD, FACR Department of Radiology, Yale School of Medicine Contact us I agree with the privacy policy of the website Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees Blue Heron’s Cancer Care Program for Ukranian Refugees completes its tour de force: almost $500,000 raised from grants and private donors, 220 cancer patients evaluated and 162 patients treated. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Mentors - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Mentors MENTORS Simona Bot When I was a student at the Medical University in Timisoara, one of my favorite books was the Citadel, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. His philosophical essays enabled me to escape the harsh reality we lived in. One of the essays gives me the shivers even now, when I remember it. It was a story about two friends, both gardeners, who drifted apart. After a lifetime of silence, one receives a letter from the other, saying: This morning, I cleaned my roses. He answered after a couple of years: This morning, I cleaned my roses, too. With only a phrase, the two friends proved they had preserved their relationship throughout the years and in spite of the distance between them. Their friendship enriched and gave meaning to their lives constantly. The Blue Heron Foundation came into my life in 2011, when I met Stefania, an exceptional and inspiring human being. I immediately realized I wanted to become a part of the Blue Heron adventure. My mentees, Ana and Emilia, are extraordinary young ladies. I keep learning something from them all the time and, most importantly, I learn something about myself through them. They are the friends I had been waiting to welcome into my life. It feels as if we’ve known each other all our lives, even though we have never met face to face. I have opened my heart, my life and my family to them. We talk every week, we meet on Skype, we write, we think about one another. It is incredible for me to witness their strength of character, the beauty of their soul, their desires and aspirations. I look forward to the day we will meet in person and I imagine us taking long walks and speaking for hours. In my heart, I no longer have three, but five daughters! It’s an experience that transforms me, enriches me and brings so much joy into my life. Simona Bot, M.D., Los Angeles Mentor since 2011 Alex Bâcu I grew up the only child in a modest family of engineers from a working-class neighborhood in Bucharest. I was fortunate to benefit from substantial financial support and dedicated mentors that allowed me to study at Amherst College in Massachusetts. Those years were not only a period of soaking up technical knowledge for a future career, but also a journey of self-discovery transitioning into adulthood. I was delighted when I was accepted as a BH mentor and I cherished the opportunity to help someone going through a similar experience. This is how I met Andrei Zaharia, an exceptionally talented young man from Piatra Neamț. With admirable ambition and effort, and in spite of the disadvantage of being raised as an institutionalized child, he succeeded to be admitted to the Faculty of Environmental Engineering, at „Vasile Alecsandri” University. Our mentoring relationship started shyly but strengthened and deepened in time. We managed to coordinate a meeting, during one of my visits to Romania, which greatly helped our communication (he finally called me by my first name!). I am very glad to have met him and I hope to help him as much as I can, in his future both as a professional and as a person. Alex Bâcu, Senior Equity Analyst, Neuberger Berman New York Mentor since 2016 Ildiko Magyari When we humans put our emotional, intellectual and financial resources in service to those who need them the most, we are capable of forming the strongest bonds, connecting at many levels and developing friendships – even if the two parties are separated by thousands of miles. This is what I learnt from meeting Attila — the boy from a small Hungarian village in the heart of Transylvania. We were matched right before the start of the pandemic, so we navigated his first three years of undergrad via WhatsApp — celebrating his accomplishments with great joy and managing his obstacles during marathon phone calls. And just like that, the boy turned into a grownup man who will be getting his computer science degree in a few months. We finally had the chance to meet in person this summer when he visited me in my hometown in Transylvania. It was a meeting of two old friends who had been through a lot together, and consequently, had grown together. Ildiko Magyari, Ph.D., Economist, New York Mentor since 2019 Dragoș Ursu My relationship with Razvan can be defined as a dynamic partnership with support from both sides. I always tried to give him both advice and encouragement. It really helped that Razvan was an extremely receptive young man, a fact that allowed us to gain trust and respect for each other. The benefit was clearly mutual because our friendship has continued outside the Blue Heron program. Dragos Ursu, Structural engineer, Los Angeles Mentor since 2016 Andra Ardeleanu I have been Alexandra’s mentor since January 2018. We worked – then, as now – in the area of Human Resources, a field in which Alexandra wanted to work after graduating (she was in her first year at that time). We met in Bucharest, the city where we both live. I felt an immediate connection, an instant “click” with her. We fit very well in terms of temperament, personal style, even lifestyle preferences – more independent and willing to try out different experiences, to travel. Over the years, in addition to getting together to discuss her academic/professional progress – where I tried to guide her as much as possible – we discovered cool places in the city and attended plays and concerts. It was my pleasure to introduce her to the cultural kaleidoscope of Bucharest, which at that time was a new city for her. Alexandra was also welcome at my home and witnessed the changes in my life – 1.5 years ago I moved in with my partner. I was with her throughout her undergraduate years, stood beside her when she received her Master’s Degree, and was right there when she took her first job. I believe she has understood what she needs to do for her career and is on an upward path. Currently, we both work in the area of International Recruitment. I was very moved when Alexandra invited me to a meal at a restaurant – already an adult, on her feet! It gives me pleasure to bring her postcards from my travels around the world for her collection and I hope that soon we will take a trip together! I am very happy for her evolution, for me she is like a younger sister and will always have my support. Even when time passes before we manage to see each other, it’s a stable connection which has become more nuanced with the passage of time. I am very proud of everything she has achieved so far and I believe that many good things will follow in her life. I am grateful to Blue Heron for the opportunity to meet her and share with her not only my expertise in the area of Human Resources, but also my life experience. Andra Ardeleanu, Talent Acquisition Manager, Bucharest Mentor since 2018 Adina Dabija It is a true blessing for me to be Dumitra’s mentor. Dumitra is an inspiration to everyone she interacts with, including my children. She is a fighter, a visionary, and an exceptional student who always gets the highest grades. But above all, she is a beautiful person, full of kindness, cheer, and compassion. It is a pleasure for me to meet her on holidays, to talk on the phone, read her monthly diary, and discuss her future projects. Thank you Blue Heron Foundation for bringing Dumitra into my life. Our relationship has brought me great joy and made my life more meaningful. Adina Dabija, New York Licensed Acupuncturist; Board Certi Newsletter - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Newsletter Women of Influence Summit 2026 Chicago March 2026 Newsletter Read Newsletter Blue Heron’s Winter Newsletter December 2025 Newsletter Read Newsletter A summary of our exciting Summer September 2025 Newsletter Read Newsletter Blue Heron Jumps into the Green Days of Spring March 2025 Newsletter Read Newsletter Blue Heron Foundation: Closing the Year with Gratitude December 2024 Newsletter Read Newsletter Blue Heron Fall News 2024 November 2024 Newsletter Read Newsletter Blue Heron’s First post-pandemic Salon June 20th 2024 Newsletter Read Newsletter April news from BlueHeron 04 April 2024 Newsletter Read Newsletter Blue Heron: A Season Wrapped in Celebration and Generosity December, 2023 Newsletter Read Newsletter Summer’s abuzz at the Blue Heron Foundation December 2023 Newsletter Read Newsletter Dear Blue Heron supporters June 2023 Newsletter Read Newsletter Blue Heron’s 20th Anniversary December 2022 Newsletter Read Newsletter 1 2 3 4 Next » Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Community-Building Programs - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Community-Building Programs 2022: Twelve Emergency Humanitarian Programs for Ukrainian refugees, over $600,000 In February 2022, the Russo-Ukrainian war created a humanitarian crisis with tens of thousands of refugees pouring into Romania and Moldova. Precisely because Blue Heron had infrastructure in place, we sprang into action and very quickly developed 12 separate humanitarian programs varying in scope and complexity. A US – Moldovan – Romanian collaboration to treat Ukrainian oncology patients currently in Moldova. We provide assessment via tumor boards, transportation, accommodations, cancer treatments and counseling at oncology clinics in Romania. Medicine/ medical equipment sourced in Romania, at cost, and transported to hard-hit hospitals in Ukraine. To date we have shipped over $ 70,000 worth of medicine and medical supplies. Thank you Elena! In collaboration with Hospices of Hope/ Romania, Blue Heron purchased an ambulance for the Regional Clinical Palliative Care Center/Ukraine. Thank you Irena and Graham! Two Medical Modules (purchased with grant funds from Project HOPE and in collaboration with Volunteer for Life) were installed at the Siret Border where Doctors of the World/ Greek Delegation are tending to refugees. Thank you Project HOPE & Volunteer for Life and Doctors of the World/Greek Delegation. Blue Heron bought 2 Heated Modules for the refugee camp/ Siret, so refugees can spend the night at the border. Blue Heron supporter and Fig Cooking School owner Heide Lang has been very instrumental in helping 29 children who fled their Ukrainian orphanage three months ago and are now relocated in Codlea. In collaboration with AIDROM, Blue Heron hired additional translators, social workers, attorneys and intercultural coordinators in Bucharest and at 4 border points. Blue Heron provided coffee/tea/water to the LUKOIL Refugee Center/Chisinau for the past seven weeks at a cost of $1000/week. Blue Heron will supply sandwiches and fruit to 78 refugees, (mostly children, mostly Roma from Azerbaijan) at the Refugee Center, Chisinau. Blue Heron installed new washing machines and refrigerators at the Refugee Center, Piatra Neamt. Blue Heron volunteers at the border provide transportation, sandwiches, phone cards, essentials to refugees as needed. Thank you Sergiu! Blue Heron collaborated with the ”Sisters of Providence,” / Catholic nuns, to provide giving food to refugees waiting in miles-long queues at the border at a cost of $1000/week. 2008: Every Child Program Partnered with Hospice Casa Sperantei Brasov Awarded a grant of $100,000 for a collaborative project totaling $236,000 Reached and treated 286 children with HIV and chronic illnesses in state-run institutions Provided training for 250 medical staff in palliative care Educated 1,900 children about HIV prevention Established a replicable model of palliative care Co-authored a model further developed by the Romanian Ministry of Health, leading to a National Plan for Palliative Care Improved government understanding of the needs of chronically ill individuals, facilitating resource allocation for palliative care. 2004: The Rupea Playground Built a state-of-the-art sports court and playground at Rupea placement center in Brasov county. Benefited 75 children aged 4 to 18. The project cost $32,000 and was inaugurated in October 2004 during a visit by BH President Stefania Magidson and Fundraising VP Mike Costache. 2003: The Loving Arms Programs Employed eight full-time qualified caregivers at the “Micul Print” orphanage in Brasov. Supported 200 children under 3 years old who previously had only one caregiver for every ten children. Sent over 500 kilograms of new toys and clothing from Los Angeles to various placement centers in the Brasov region. The program’s cost was $18,360 and ran from January 2004 to June 2005, coinciding with the Romanian government’s efforts, with EU assistance, to relocate abandoned children under 3 to more suitable environments with better child-caregiver ratios. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Become a mentor - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Become a mentor Join our community of mentors When you sign up to become a mentor, you will also become your student’s adviser and friend. You will communicate in a very direct, personal way and have the opportunity to make a profound and long lasting impact on a young person’s life. Our mentors invest a minimum of two hours a month, reading the scholarship recipients’ required journals and answering back, guiding and supporting them during their college experience. If you want to become a mentor please contact Andreea Muraru at [email protected] Curriculum Vitae I agree with the privacy policy of the website Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu 2024 Blueheron Gazette - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ 2024 Blueheron Gazette Gazeta Blue Heron Dec. 2023 mail_comp Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu About BHF - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ About BHF The name Blue Heron, which in Native American symbolism stands for “inner reflection and active manifestation of one’s spiritual path,” mirrors the founder’s journey at a time when she decided to give back to disadvantaged children in Romania. Mission & Approch Blue Heron Foundation is a 501(c) 3 non-profit charitable organization operating in the US, Romania and the Republic of Moldova. A key principle is that 100% of every donation goes exclusively to the beneficiaries of our program; the founders cover all administrative costs. Vision Blue Heron Foundation was born out of the conviction that we need to do everything in our power to uplift those fellow human beings unable to fend for themselves. We remain committed to helping abandoned or vulnerable youth reach their academic potential and also ensure that individuals displaced by war or trapped in outdated medical systems receive modern treatment. Mission To comprehensively address the intellectual, social and emotional well-being of our students so that they may become self-actualized, self-sufficient, productive adults. To provide our students with greater opportunities through college scholarships, a one-on-one mentorship program, specialized educational courses, volunteer opportunities and yearly summer camps. To help vulnerable individuals in dire medical need – displaced refugees, patients trapped in outdated medical systems or the terminally ill – receive life-saving care. To collaborate with medical institutions and government agencies in Romania and the Republic of Moldova in order to modernize their medical care giving systems, including cancer treatments and palliative care. To create new programs in Radiology and Oncology for residents and current doctors in the Republic of Moldova. Focus To expand our scholarship program to the poorest regions of Romania and the Republic of Moldova. To increase our footprint in the medical fields of Romania and the Republic of Moldova. Feature Goals To create a model so our alumni pay it forward by becoming benefactors to the next generation of Blue Heron students. To collaborate with individuals and grassroots organizations in the US with the intention of combating isolation and increase. To use Art as a tool to bring US communities together. History & Accomplishments Stefania Magidson established Blue Heron Foundation in 2002 having been greatly affected by the abject condition of babies and children abandoned in orphanages throughout her native Romania. Since 2002 Blue Heron has: Raised and invested over $3.5 Million to improve the lives of more than 3,000 Romanian children. Awarded college scholarships to 500+ vulnerable youth in Romania and the Republic of Moldova. Built a community of over 1,000 Romanian and American donors. Created a mentorship program with over 250 mentors from 6 countries. Attracted over 500 volunteers. We are active in 25+ counties in Romania and, since 2015, in 13 regions in the Republic of Moldova. In keeping with our philosophy of minimizing extraneous expenses, our primary fundraising instrument in the US is a “Giving Circle” in which members pledge an annual minimum of $600. We meet yearly during an informal “Salon” – one in Los Angeles and one in New York – to present Blue Heron’s activities and impart updates from our scholarship recipients. In accordance with our goal of increasing the cultural profile of charitable giving in Romania, since 2006 we have organized several galas. Our annual fundraiser, the Valentine’s Day Charity Ball, became a tradition among Bucharest’s charity events. The balls culminated with the presentation of the Forget-Me-Not Humanitarian Award, which to date has been given to six notable Romanians who have shown exemplary dedication to bettering the lives of the country’s underprivileged children. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Community Building Programs, US - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Community Building Programs, US Community Building Programs, US We are pairing with local organizations and humanitarians for grassroots collaboration projects. Please contact us at [email protected] Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Advisory Board - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Advisory Board Advisory Board Alex Bacu, SVP Associate Portfolio Manager Neuberger Berman Jacqueline Caster President, Everychild Foundation Camelia Davtyan, MD, FACP Director of Women’s Health UCLA Comprehensive Health Program Anastasia Soare President, Anastasia Beverly Hills Irena Tocino Professor and Vice Chair of Medical Informatics Dept of Radiology, Yale School of Medicine Simona Bot, MD Consulting Scientist MultiCell Technologies Ana Cojocaru, MD Chief of Pulmonary & Critical Care Dept Univ of Massachusetts Medical School Neal Halfon, MD Director, UCLA Center for Healthier Children, Families & Communities Livia Mastei Prime Broker Onboarding Manager Bank of America Horia Vulpe, MD, CM, FRCPC Radiation Oncologist Queen’s Medical Center Honolulu, Hawaii Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Romania & Moldova Teams - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Romania & Moldova Teams Cristina Porsega – Director, BH Scholarship Program, Romania Cristina graduated from the Western University of Timisoara with a degree in Sociology and Psychology and continued her graduate studies in Management & Human Services. Cristina was a Blue Heron scholarship recipient herself (2005 – 2010), until graduating and obtaining her M.A. degree. She understands thoroughly how the program works, first as a grantee and then as a member of the Foundation’s team. Valentina Ostap – BHF Scholarship Program Director, Republica Moldova Vlentina Ostap was born in Sukhumi, Georgia and currently lives and works in Chisinau, Moldova. As a teenager, she pursued her passion for painting and acting at the Calarasi Art School. Valentina was admited at the Ion Creanga University where she received a B.A. and an M.A. in psychology and also her teaching credentials. Upon graduation, she continued to pursue her artistic vocations studying at the Andries Puppet Theater. Valentina was also a volunteer for various social causes. Between 2008-2012 she worked at the Moldovan NGOs Aliance Secretariat dedicated to the Social Protection of Children and Families. For three years afterwards she was employed as a Psychologist at the Community Association CCF-Moldova. Antoaneta Andreea Muraru – Director, Mentorship Program, Romania Antoaneta Andreea Muraru (PhD) studied Psychology at the University of Iași. She is working as a therapist, trainer and supervisor in the field of couple and family therapy and she is one of the founders of Family and Couple Psychotherapy Association in Iași. Her interest in postmodern therapies grew over the recent years and now she is specialized in narrative therapy, a therapy of solidarity. Through her work, she is aiming to make marginalized and isolated voices heard. She is working with individuals, couples and various groups who have experienced discrimination and marginalization. With a large experience in child protection state department, private practice and many NGOs, she is passionate about the narrative approach, social justice issues, curious and respectful when interacting with persons, always looking for HOPE. I am honored to be part of the Blue Heron team and humbled by their work, dedication and generosity. I have been working for many years in supporting people to gain agency in their lives and I wish to offer my experience and my joy of living in order to build, together with these young adults and their mentors, new stories of possibilities and new solid places on which to stand. Horatiu Schiopu – Law & Accounting Consulting Horatiu Schiopu was born in Campina, Prahova County, Romania. He spent his childhood in the countryside, in Valea Doftanei. From an early age he came to understand the hardships that the impoverished have to endure and he resolved to do something to ameliorate their situation when the time came. That time was 2008, when Horatiu joined the Blue Heron Foundation as a mentor. Since then he has been an active participant in the foundation’s programs. Valedictorian of his promotion, Horatiu majored in law at the University “Al.I Cuza” from Iasi. He then pursued further studies in the field and obtained an M.A. from the University “Titu Maiorescu” in Bucharest. He has built a career in banking law and is, at present, a senior partner at the the law firm Schiopu & Associates, SCA. He strongly believes that every adult can and should support children and young people by getting involved in their education. Lucian Mustata – IT Consulting Lucian Mustata graduated from The Cybernetics Faculty in Bucharest and received M.A diplomas from the National School of Political and Administrative Science and the Academy of Economic Studies in Bucharest. Shortly thereafter he founded Lucian & Partners SRL-D, an IT company offering a broad range of services, including web design, online security, branding and search optimization. Lucian became a Blue Heron scholarship recipient in 2011 and, after graduation, has remained an active alumnus overseeing Blue Heron’s creative and web design. He recently launched the global platform Note About Life, a site that allows people to share their life story and inspire others through their advice and example Daniela Tordoi – Coordinator, BH Mentorship Program Daniela majored in Psychology and Education Sciences at the University of Bucharest and then specialized in Integrative Psychotherapy. She is an accredited career & personal development coach. Daniela’s professional experience has expanded in accessing and managing development funds, a specialty that has enabled her to initiate and coordinate educational projects, including summer camps for young people and adults. Daniela’s professional interests are complemented by her passion for writing, traveling and sports. Catalina Neculau – Staff Psychologist/Group Coordinator Born in Iasi, Romania, Catalina started her carrier as a nurse in an OR facility. Partly as a result of this work she became interested in helping people not simply with their physical ailments but with their mental and emotional ones as well. Consequently she obtained a degree in psychology from The Alexandru Ioan Cuza University and continued her studies in psychosocial intervention and psychotherapy. Catalina specializes in Ericksonian therapy and hypnosis and in narrative therapy. As a Blue Heron Group Coordinator she oversees the mentor-mentee relationships and the progress of a group of Blue Heron students based in Iasi and Suceava. Catalina is an avid photographer and an enthusiastic traveller and mountain climber. Alexandra Arnautu – Coordinator A linguist by education, an entrepreneur by opportunity and a networker by vocation, Alexandra Arnautu is a humanist of the XXI century. Born in Romania, she grew up in Lebanon at that time when bombs fell so often it was no longer news. From this early life experience she retained a ”seize the moment” attitude and a will to make things happen against all odds. Back in Romania, she pursued an education in humanities. She has an MA in foreign languages (French, English and Arabic) and an academic specialty in public relations and communication. She studied in Tunisia, Syria and Jordan. Ada Lungu – Coordinator Ada Lungu was born under the sign of diversity. She lived, worked and studied in six cities and three countries, on two continents. She experienced her academic specialty, intercultural communication, in every practical way. She could probably find a way to talk to an alien. Ada pursued academic and professional courses in communication, journalism and project management in Cairo, Bordeaux, Paris, Brussels and Berlin. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 info@blueheronfou UNIVERSITY SCOLARSHIP PROGRAM - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ UNIVERSITY SCOLARSHIP PROGRAM OVERVIEW Since 2005, Blue Heron has focused on expanding The University Scholarship and Mentorship Program, which aims to provide essential college funding to vulnerable students in Romania and Moldova. Our goal is to help our students gain those values and skills necessary to navigate life as productive, self-reliant adults. With this intention we designed our program to offer one-on-one support while also fostering responsibility. We provide our students with: A $100 monthly living stipend toward personal expenses Tuition: up to 90%, which covers all fees for most undergraduate and graduate degrees, and full tuition for medical school (this applies to students whose tuition is not subsidized by the Romanian Government) Up to $500 per year for supplementary coursework, such as foreign language, tech, or driving classes (this applies to students whose tuition is not subsidized by the Romanian Government) A one-on-one adult mentor who closely monitors the assigned student’s progress and offers emotional support, filling a gap that these young adults often encounter as they enter university A monthly journal, which fosters communication between the students, mentors and the foundation. This encourages students to share their successes and challenges, allowing them to forge meaningful relationships with their mentors while gaining a deeper understanding of themselves The opportunity to participate in a yearly summer camp where students celebrate the year’s achievements and engage in a wide range of activities, including horseback riding, hiking, dancing, resume workshops, and mock job interviews Scholarships are awarded through a formal contract between the Foundation and the Scholarship Recipients, in collaboration with the State Directorate or the relevant NGO the students belong to. These scholarships are renewable every school year, contingent upon satisfactory completion of students’ academic and program requirements. We require our students to: Attend classes regularly Successfully pass year-end qualifying exam Write monthly journal entries to their mentors and the foundation Volunteer 5 hours per week Mentors Alumni SELECTION CRITERIA Being a Blue Heron scholarship recipient is a commitment to oneself, to one’s mentor and to society. It is a joint effort between the foundation and recipients meant to help them become independent, responsible and successful. APPLICATION CRITERIA: Applicants must be either orphaned or abandoned in the care of the state (Social Assistance and Child Protection Directorate –DGASPC-) or a non-governmental organization (NGO) In some cases, we consider applicants who show exceptional academic potential but come from families with extremely disadvantaged backgrounds Applicants must be accepted into a Romanian university Applicants must not benefit from any other scholarships or sources of income WHAT WE LOOK FOR: A team of Blue Heron evaluators carefully studies all applications and awards scholarships based on the following criteria: The degree of hardship applicants have faced and the significance of the obstacles they have had to overcome A demonstrated love of learning and acceptable academic achievement during their high school years A commitment to participate fully in all aspects of the Blue Heron Scholarship program and are not just looking for financial aid A willingness to meet us halfway HOW WE FIND OUR STUDENTS: The Ministry of Labor, Family and Social Protection sends an annual Blue Heron scholarship announcement to every Child Protection office in the 40 regions of Romania. We also work with the school inspectorates of each region to identify academically promising students from vulnerable families. Blue Heron accepts approximately half of all applicants. Are you up to the challenge? APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIPS SUCCESS STORIES At Blue Heron Foundation, we try to speak for those vulnerable members of the Romanian society who are unable to speak for themselves. But as these orphaned and abandoned children gain the support they need in life, their voices begin to ring loud and clear. We have much to learn from their stories of overcoming obstacles and finding a place for themselves in the world despite their many challenges. The fonder pay all administrative costs. All Posts Success stories Elvis I feel honored to be invited to share with you some thoughts about myself and the way the Blue Heron Foundation changed my life. My childhood was deprived of the warmth of a loving family. As a child, I suffered from a very serious form of asthma. The poor conditions... Read More Cosmina I want to start by thanking all the Blue Heron contributors, as well as Prof. Lidia Starica, who first introduced me to the Blue Heron program. In addition, I want to thank my mentor, Mrs. Corina Musteret, who came to have a very special place in my life and in... Read More CATALIN I always think fondly of the Blue Heron family. I like to call it a big family because over the past three years (2006-2009) while I was a grantee of the foundation, I met generous and gifted people. While I was a student in the Construction Faculty in Iasi, I... Read More ANDREI Z I am still institutionalized in a Children’s Home until the end of my university studies. I do not regret growing up in this place. It is, basically, the home of a very big family. At present, I am a student at the Faculty for Environmental Engineering, at the University ”Vasile... Read More Daniela I would like to thank the Blue Heron Foundation, its supporters, the Aba Del Tin Foundation, and, last but not least, Ramona Maxwell, my mentor. I had the privilege to be a Blue Heron scholar since the beginning of the program. I benefited from both the financial and moral support... Read More NICOLAE C. I lived in social care until I was 25 years old. My mother abandoned me in the maternity ward because she has no means to take care of me. I grew up in several different placement centres. In every one of these places, I met teachers and social assistants who... Read More RAMONA S. I was in the care of SOS Children’s Village ever since I was a little girl. My parents couldn’t care for me, so they did what they thought was best and left me there. They thought that, this way, I would get better access to the things they couldn’t provide,... Read More GEANINA R Back in 2004, when I was about 17 years old, professor Calaican (BH member) came to visit me in the orphanage ‘Casa Maria’ and talk to me about this new project – BH’s college scholarships. I was the first girl in many generations in our orphanage who aspired to go... Read More IOANA C. In 2010, I became a Blue Heron student. The BH family gave me a helping hand during the most important time of my life and provided all the support I needed to build a solid foundation for a fulfilling life. I was a student in the program for 5 years,... Read More SERGIU C. The year 2012 was one of the most significant and beautiful periods of my life. Among the many blessings of that year I count the scholarship received from the Blue Heron Foundation. When I applied for the scholarship, I had to write The Story of my Life. When I wrote... Read More Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Stefania Magidson meets with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue, and share stories about Blue Heron Foundation - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Stefania Magidson meets with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue, and share stories about Blue Heron Foundation In Paris, Stefania Magidson was honored to meet with Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief at Vogue , and share stories about Blue Heron Foundation as well as first-hand accounts from LA after the fires. “Anna is not only a visionary who often connects the world of fashion to socially relevant causes, she is also a genuinely caring humanitarian” said Stefania. Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy Humanitarian Award - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ BH founder Stefania Magidson receives the Legacy Humanitarian Award “We are honoring with our  Legacy Award  one of our long-time supporters,  Stefania Magidson , the founder and president of the Blue Heron Foundation. Not only has she been a champion of the arts, Romanian cinema, and film festivals here and elsewhere in the U.S., she has also built a great organization, Blue Heron Foundation, to provide scholarship and mentoring to orphans and young people at risk in Romania and Moldova. This year, however, she has shown what her life’s work and mission led to, at the  outset of the tragic war in Ukraine . Stefania immediately rallied to raise necessary funds, organized her Blue Heron alumni to pick up refugees from the borders and drive them to safety, provide clothing, emergency hygiene supplies and facilities, find accommodation, partnered with medical groups on the ground to deliver necessary supplies, and  organized faster and better  than many bigger relief service providers.  With her long-standing record of support for the arts and SEEfest mission, we can be truly  proud that one of our own  has emerged as a beacon of hope and an  extraordinary example  of how relief can be provided on the ground even in the middle of the largest and chaotic refugee crisis in Europe since WWII.” Vera Mijojlić   Director South East European Film Festival, Los Angeles Blue Heron Fundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization operated in the US, Romania and Moldova US 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA US: +1310 702 2038 Moldova Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 Moldova: +373 690 9818 [email protected] Romania Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 RO: +40 745 709 411 US US: +1310 702 2038 269 South Beverly Drive, Suite 435 Beverly Hills, California 90212, USA Romania RO: +40 745 709 411 Calea Vitan nr. 23C, et. 1, cam. 9-10, Bucuresti, sector 3, 031281 Moldova Moldova: +373 690 98182 Str. Grigore Vieru Nr. 19, Chisinau, Republica Moldova, Cod Postal MD-2005 [email protected] Select your currency USD United States (US) dollar RON Romanian leu Suporters - BlueHeron Skip to content APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ DONATE WHAT WE DO College Scholarships in Romania and Moldova Medical Programs in Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, Eastern Europe Community-Building Programs, US ABOUT US About BHF US team Romania & Moldova Teams Advisory Board IN THE NEWS NEWSLETTERS TAKE ACTION Donate Become a mentor Matching Funds Gifts of Stock Fundraise on Facebook Host a Salon 2024 BLUEHERON GAZETTE MANAGE RECURRING DONATIONS Student Login DONATE APLICĂ PENTRU BURSĂ Suporters In the U.S. Nadia Comăneci and Bart Conner One of the most inspiring Olympic couples, five time gold medalist Nadia Comaneci and US gold medalist Bart Conner have been Blue Heron supporters since 2004. In this day and age it is easy to become cynical about the business affairs of certain non-profits. However, that is precisely why we have been extremely impressed with the net results of the Blue Heron Foundation to fill the needs of these under-served Romanian teenagers. It is truly exceptional that the founders cover the expenses of the Blue Heron Foundation so that all of the donated funds can go directly to the youngsters in the program. Anastasia Soare CEO Anastasia Beverly Hills, Inc. Blue Heron Foundation is the only charitable foundation that I know of that graciously donates 100% of the proceeds towards the program. Stefania and Mark’s generosity to cover all of Blue Heron’s administrative costs is only surpassed by their dedication and kindness towards these young adults. Congratulations on your achievements and giving so many kids the chance for a brighter future. I also want to congratulate you on keeping the spirit of the community and involvement alive after 10 years. Through this charitable work you are shaping and bettering the lives of young adults who were not fortunate enough to have the guidance of loving parents, and you are offering your donors and members the chance for personal growth. Bravo! Neil Leifer Photographer, Blue Heron Member since 2003. We all have been lucky to experience some of the greatest moments in sports history through the lens of legendary sports photographer Neil Leifer. Neil’s career has spanned over five decades during which he photographed 15 Olympic Games, published 16 photography books and was a staff photographer for LIFE, Time, Newsweek and Sports Illustrated. I have been a proud contributor to the Blue Heron Foundation since its very first fundraiser in 2003. It was my pleasure to host an event for Blue Heron at my New York home in April 2005 and have continued my annual support ever since. Blue Heron is a wonderful charity with a mission that I find extremely worthwhile, necessary and important, and Stefania Magidson has worked tirelessly to meet the lofty goals that Blue Heron has set. I was initially and I still am very, very impressed by the fact that one hundred percent of every dollar donated to this wonderful charity goes to helping the children it is meant to help. Alexandra Nechita A well-known child prodigy, Romanian born Alexandra Nechita started wowing the American public with her solo art exhibit at the age of 8 and hasn’t stopped since. Chosen by the World Federation of United Nations Associations to lead a Global Arts Initiative, she is a visionary artist and a Blue Heron supporter since 2004: It’s true that with time, you grow, not only in age, but in mind, heart and in spirit. As an adult and after my own university experience (the 1st in my family), I can say I have a new found respect for the cause at heart- because I can truly understand what an unmatched value an education can have on a human being. What a gift it is, to have the chance to choose, and an opportunity to change. Blue Heron is not just making a difference in numbers, which of course is a feat all on its own -most importantly they are championing the human life and giving those lives the tools to discover their highest capacity. I am so proud to be associated with Blue Heron and look forward to a future hand in hand. Leigh Bantivoglio Designer, Los Angeles Just returned from a 3 week immersion in Romania with Stefania and her team. My heart is so full! To witness the gift Blue Heron and the contributors make in the lives of these young adults made it all so real for me. I was able to meet the kids, go to the camp and see how all the magic happens. And it truly is a soul to soul connection within the foundation and through it to the kids who have been abandoned. I will never forget the memories that I have of seeing how kids come in with no hope, are given financial and emotional support, and turn into aspiring young adults making their way in the world and making their own unique contributions. Lisa Gerrard Lisa Gerrard has established herself as one of Australia’s most ground-breaking and in-demand artists over a career of two decades as a performer with Dead Can Dance and a composer of award-winning movie soundtracks. Her otherworldly voice brought her many film collaborations (Gladiator, The Insider, Baraka, Samsara) as well as Golden Globe and Oscar nominations. She has also issued a series of acclaimed solo and collaborative albums. I’m extremely proud of Blue Heron and feel greatly privileged to be a part of this wonderful vision. I have a dream to also bring harmony in the world, in this we will grow knowing that we are fulfilling our purpose here; it’s great to be alive when I see people caring for others, it brings joy. Let’s get others as excited as we are! In Romania H. E. Andrei Muraru The Ambassador of Romania to the United States. Humanitarian work knows no borders – and the programs of the Blue Heron Foundation stand as an example worth emulating of generously shared humanity, expertise and financial help. All the pillars that sustain the Strategic Partnership that Romania shares with the United States are essentially grounded in the amazing people-to-people ties. I think our bilateral friendship is boosted by the many initiatives of this foundation, dedicated to students and mentors in Romania and the Republic of Moldova – where hundreds of students attending universities and vocational schools were recipients of the scholarship program since 2005. I hope that the foundation will continue to „uplift humanity” for many years and even decades to come. His Excellency Adrian Vierita Romanian Ambassador to the United States (2008-2015) Adrian Vierita is an admirer and supporter of Blue Heron’s efforts. Raising funds for any charity is certainly an art in itself, but doing it consistently over ten years and reaching $1 million shows dedication and tenacity beyond any means. I am proud to see that you have succeeded in promoting Romania in the most positive light through all your programs and all the success stories from your scholarship recipients. You proved time and time again that endurance, grace and determination are deeply rooted in Blue Heron’s foundation creed, and also reflected in the realities that it helped shape. His Excellency Sorin Ducaru The Romanian Ambassador to the United States (2001-2006) has supported Blue Heron Foundation since its inception and continues to bring awareness to its cause. I express my deepest gratitude for the generous activity of the Romanian and American volunteers working for the Blue Heron Foundation to create better conditions for those children who have not had the chance to live and grow within a family environment. Their actions are highly appreciated and provide a good example of how Americans and Romanians can work together for a noble purpose. Adrian Paduraru Film and theater actor in Bucharest and Blue Heron Mentor. I didn’t know what being someone’s mentor means until I joined this program. I did not think it was enough to provide a personal example for the young person in my care, from which he would learn and grow. It is not a one-way road from me, the Mentor, to him, the Mentee. It is a two-way journey in which we go forwa