Couple Who Supports Families in Need Given Humanitarian Award

Submitted by the city of Sandy Springs

The city of Sandy Springs granted its Humanitarian Award to a couple for a first time, presented during the city’s annual Martin Luther King Day Celebration.

The award recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions in the area of community service. This year’s recipients are Sandy Springs residents Betty and Phil Klein.

More than 60 children call the Klein’s “mom” and “dad,” and it’s more than just a term of endearment or a nickname; it is who they are to these children. The couple has blended faiths, blurred racial lines and redefined family. Their five biological children have grown up with adopted and foster siblings, creating a loving extended family.

As community leaders, Betty and Phil are committed to Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, by improving family life for others. Betty created the Atlanta-based non-profit organization, Childkind, to support families in need. She brings that experience, along with years in the corporate world with Kindercare to the table as chair of the Governance Board of North Springs Charter High School, where she also volunteers in a parent capacity.

Phil is a substitute teacher with Fulton County School System, bringing the creativity he honed during his career in advertising, including management experience from owning businesses and his commitment in service as a Marine. The couple’s longtime involvement working with women and children infected with HIV and living with AIDS, guides their belief that if you can save a mother’s life, you save the children.

“Dr. King once said that he wanted to be remembered as one who tried to feed the hungry, clothe those who were naked, and give his life serving others,” said Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul. “The same can be said of Betty and Phil. They have worked tirelessly to help children and families in need, from fostering children to creating an agency providing needed services for HIV moms and their children. They embody the King spirit and attitude for which this award was created.”

“We’re humbled by the honor,” said Betty Klein. “The enriched life works both ways. As we are able to serve within the community, the joy that returns is tremendous.”

The couple is a member of Temple Sinai in Sandy Springs. They are currently working on GyneConcepts, a development-stage women’s health technology company, where they are working through the FDA and European Union for approval for an in-home Pap smear test; they currently have patents in more than 23 countries.

The Humanitarian Award was created as a tribute to Dr. King, known as a strong advocate for community service.

The community submits nominations, with a volunteer committee reviewing submissions and selecting the honoree. The King Celebration was held at Sandy Springs City Hall. Past recipients include Hugo Mullins (2014), Felix Lora (2013) and Tamara Carrera (2012).

Pictured: Mayor Paul presents the Humanitarian Award to Phil and Betty Klein. Looking on are several of their children. In the background is Reverend Sullivan from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church. Credit: city of Sandy Springs