| |
 |
I came to Canada from Russia in
1927, as a very young girl, together with my parents & my brother. I
went to school and grew up in Toronto, while my parents worked very hard
so that we could have a better life here. We all adhered to Jewish tradition
including donating tzedakah, helping other newcomers like ourselves, and
volunteering.
 Together with my husband, Morris, we extended this tradition. He never
waited for someone to approach him for a donation; he would lead the way.
He had a magical way of convincing others that it was their duty to help
those less fortunate. And he was a true leader by title and by action.
When he entered a room, all who were present knew Morris, and that he
would accomplish his goals.
I wanted to do my share.
So as a mother of three young children, I began to volunteer with Hadassah-
WIZO. Volunteerism was infectious. I stayed involved with Hadassah for a
quarter century, and eventually became Chairman of the Toronto Hadassah
Bazaar, President of Toronto Hadassah-Wizo, and also chaired the women’s
campaign for State of Israel Bonds while sitting on the boards of Baycrest
and countless other charities.
It was abundantly clear that community
was a priority. Having lived through such pivotal moments in both Jewish
and modern world history, we understood that if we did not look after our
fellow Jews, no one else would. Morris’ favourite motto, borrowed from
Hebrew, was zachor - remember. We were confident that, as long we remember
those less fortunate, remember those who suffered, remember those who selflessly
helped, the gift of tzedakah and goodwill would carry on.
And, thankfully, today
with three children, their spouses, nine grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren,
I can proudly count the fruits of our labour. Each member of our family
has received a Jewish education and all follow a strong Jewish tradition,
with Israel and local volunteerism fundamental to their lives.
|
|
|
|
|
