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I have always considered myself to be a professional volunteer.
Is it any wonder? My grandparents and parents gave my sister
Wendy Eisen and me a most wonderful legacy: commitment to
the Jewish community.
I clearly remember my grandfather Joe Herman’s zeal
for the Jewish National Fund and my grandmother Rose Herman’s
enthusiasm as she bicycled around Jackson’s Point selling
tickets for her Deborah Chapter of Hadassah-WIZO Tea. Grandma
was a founding member of the Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary,
and shared many stories with us about the first meeting held
in her home.
Both my parents continued the tradition of Tzedakah throughout
their lives. My father Bernie Herman was the first Chairman
of the Board of York Finch Hospital and held that position
for fifteen years. Among the many wonderful memories of my
mother Allie, was her devotion to community service. Mom was
an active member of Ruth Chapter of Hadassah-WIZO for over
fifty years and chaired the Hadassah Bazaar. She was the first
Gift Shop Chairman of the Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary as
well as an active canvasser for UJA.
I have been actively involved with many charitable organizations
for the past four decades. When I was a bride at 19, forming
a Hadassah-WIZO Chapter was as natural as roasting chicken
for Friday night. Forty-eight years ago, my mother helped
me found Noar Chapter. I became its first President with her
as our mentor. I continued to follow in her footsteps –
as President of the Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary from 1983
to 1985, and as a past Co-Chairman of the Lion of Judah and
Atarah divisions of UJA Federation.
As the present Co-President of Israel Cancer Research Fund,
I am involved with an organization, which supports groundbreaking,
innovative cancer research conducted by outstanding scientists
in numerous institutions in Israel.
This year, my sister, Wendy and I, are co-chairing the Prime
Minister’s Club Division of the State of Israel Bonds,
Women’s Campaign. We will be introducing an exciting
and innovative way for women to participate in the purchase
of Israel Bonds.
How fortunate I am, to be able to help make a difference in
this world.
Le Dor V’Dor – from generation to generation –
I hope my legacy will serve to remind my children and grandchildren
and future generations to carry on what has been so important
to me, the continuity and strength of the Jewish community.
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