What's New

Child Rite, a well known and respected organization serving special needs children and their families for more than 30 years, made the decision last year to close their doors and stop offering direct services. By opening a Fund at Taos Community Foundation, the Board of Directors of Child Rite were able to insure that the mission and vision of the organization will live and services toward that end will continue to be funded. Honoring donors that have generously supported Child Rite for over two decades this Fund will carry forth their intent.

Born in the 1950s Jonathan grew up in Hartford, Connecticut, the adopted child of Nelson Case Taintor. Settling in Taos in the 1970s Jonathan worked as a contractor and wood carver. He received commissions as early as 1980, for his carvings in relief, used as architectural or decorative elements. He pursued his formal training in the arts at Highlands Extension University in Las Vegas, New Mexico and Adams State College in Alamosa, Colorado learning bronze casting. Jonathan built his home and studio in the upper Valdez valley where he continued to work until his death. As an adopted child Jonathan had a sympathetic understanding of the challenges faced by adoptive families and children. His knowledge of the work of Child Rite led him to take action in supporting their mission. Jonathan left his estate to Child Rite to provide services for special needs children in foster care or adoptive homes and their families, and by filling gaps of service in the traditional adoption community. Taos Community Foundation is proud to host the Child Rite Fund in support of Jonathan’s ideals.