She met Ms. Block when she was a young artist in 1994.

Ms. Block said that until now all federal employee benefit plans offered similar standard options and exclusions.

Ms. Block said one reason she took the job was the tremendous revitalization of the neighborhood.

More than once that day, Ms. Block returned with a similar report.

When Ms. Block was 17, her father was found to have cancer.

Many times the rescuers did not understand why anyone would want to take their photographs, Ms. Block said.

"These kids have really poor self-esteem, they've only gotten attention for negative behavior," Ms. Block said.

Ms. Block has also developed an international program.

Ms. Block said her brother is still known as one of the best drummers in the town.

"We called on the plans to take extraordinary steps to meet the needs of beneficiaries," Ms. Block said in an interview.