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Ida z”l & Philip z”l Bloom |
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Philanthropy was not something
we spoke about in my house when I was growing up. We weren’t rich by
any means. My father was the youngest president of his society – the
Pride of Israel. He died when I was just a little girl, and my mother worked
in a factory until I was 16 years old. But as far back as I remember there
were tzedakah boxes in our house, and my brother and I were encouraged to
put money in whenever we had it. It wasn’t something we were forced
to do - we wanted to.
 I didn’t become very involved with the Jewish community until I
got married. My husband Phil was a member of B’nai Brith, and they
were forming a women’s chapter, so it was natural that I would get
involved. It was through B’nai Brith that I was introduced to UJA.
Years ago I even worked at UJA professionally. Now it’s one of many
Jewish organizations I’m involved with.
Phil and I both feel
that it’s our responsibility to give to the Jewish community. It’s
been more than 57 years since we started. We don’t have any children
of our own, so when we were making our will, our nephew suggested we leave
a bequest to UJA Federation. I think Jewish people should look after the
community first. We have a duty to support each other, both at home and
in Israel. I hope that future generations feel the same sense of obligation.
I am happy to see young people getting
involved today. When I was in high school I was one of only four Jewish
students. I played volleyball and ran track and field. I didn’t feel
there was anti-Semitism, but it was there. One year I fulfilled all of my
requirements to get a school varsity letter, but the teacher wouldn’t
give it to me because I was Jewish. So I confronted him, and I got the letter.
I don’t know where I got the courage from, but I think standing up
for myself is part of my Jewish heritage.
Giving is part of my
Jewish heritage as well. It isn’t just about money. You have to give
with your heart. Phil and I will continue to work in the community as long
as we’re able.
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