Dear Friend,
Today I am honored to share with you the first in our new Community Partner Highlight Series, videos which will feature community leaders, projects, and impact from our partners whom we support through the Annual Campaign, grants, and other community resources and programs. Lander-Grinspoon Academy‘s (LGA) new Executive Director Rabbi Debra Kolodny joined us this morning to share some of what drives LGA ‘s success and why Jewish education is crucial to our Jewish future and the living legacy we create by nurturing our community’s children.
As a mother, I often think about what legacy I will leave for my children. As I consider what that will be, I look to the many examples around me.
I am reminded of Anne Robinson (z”l) , mother of Betsy Bertuzzi and Ina Werman. Anne was a long-time volunteer for Rachel’s Table. Her example has created a multi-generational legacy that continues in the volunteerism of her children and grandchildren.
Ruth Weiss (z”l), likewise set an example for her children and grandchildren. In addition to her volunteer work, she originated the Generation to Generation program to recognize individual major donors who created funds to perpetuate their Annual Campaign contribution. Not only did she create the program, but she was a member creating her own Lion of Judah Endowment Fund to perpetuate her Campaign gift, and other funds to support the Jewish causes she supported during her lifetime.
While some individuals provide a legacy through planned gifts to the community, others fund them during their lifetime. Past President Elliot Bloom and his wife Anne Bloom, both of whom were active members within our community for decades, have each endowed a Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment Fund (PACE) through the Generation to Generation Society program. These funds make their annual campaign contributions now, during their lifetimes, and will continue to do so in perpetuity. What a blessing to be able to see the difference you make now and know that it will continue according to your wishes, forever!
Whether through time or treasure, every day each of us has an opportunity to light a torch that will continue to burn and fuel the embers of generations to come.
Take that step today and make a difference that lasts! You can volunteer your time by connecting through this quick form. If you would like to talk about your financial legacy to the community please contact me at ngorenstein@jewishwesternmass.org or by phone at 413-737-4313.
As always, I am here to listen; please reach out at any time.
Shabbat Shalom,
