Performing a Julius

It was sometime mid-December of 2006 when I was contemplating what to say at my father’s (Julius W. Fomotor) upcoming funeral. That week I received many phone calls, letters and emails stating how kind my dad was and how he’d do anything for anyone. Being his son for 46 years I already knew this.

I had a special relationship with my dad. From sharing his knowledge of cameras to teaching lessons from his bible, my dad was always there for me. He was an awesome role model and a great friend. As a Christian man, he would always let his light shine bright with everything he did. I don’t believe a day ever went by without him extending a helping hand to someone in need. My mom was much the same.

I’ve always admired my parents for escaping the turmoil from the country they loved. In 1956 they left Budapest with only a backpack on their backs. They set out to explore and find new opportunity in the land of the free. For fifty-some years they lived life together to it’s fullest, while inspiring all those who crossed their paths. As I spoke to family and friends from the podium that cold night in December of 2006, I reflected back on the great life my father enjoyed so much. I encouraged the attendees to go out of their way to be kind and gentle, to lend a helping hand or just go put a smile on someone’s face, all in honor of my father. More fittingly, I asked them to go out and to “Perform a Julius.”

It was shortly after my dad’s passing that the idea of establishing a Foundation came to mind. After my mom passed in 2013 and with some encouragement from my wife Barb, I decided the time was right. Lending a hand, giving back and helping to spread the word of God is something my parents always did with a passion, and now, it will become their legacy. I’m proud to be called their son and it’s with great honor I dedicate our Foundation and this web site to their memory.