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A defining moment for me as a Jew was the 1967 War. I was
already 40 years old at the time and had never really felt
very connected to Jewish life. With the exception of my Bar
Mitzvah, my family didn’t really participate much in
Jewish customs or traditions. But in 1967, the idea that Israel
may not exist woke me up. It was from that time forward that
I became much more involved in the community and developed
a more haimish feeling as a Jew.
Elaine, on the other hand, grew up in a family where Jewish
tradition was part of everyday life. She tells stories of
her great grandmother’s generosity. There was always
a little something in her skirt pockets to give to others
who knocked on the door in need – even though her own
family had barely enough to eat. Ordinary Jews – yet
they quietly showed extraordinary acts of kindness and generosity.
After the war, I decided to take the Young Adult Leadership
course and over the years became more involved in the community
in various volunteer roles, including leadership at Baycrest
Centre, UJA Federation’s Annual Campaign Chair and others.
We met many wonderful people along the way who were enthusiastic
and so deeply committed. They further inspired our own feelings
regarding Tzedakah and Israel, which we visited often.
There’s much to do to ensure Jewish continuity. We established
the Rafelman endowment because we believe it is important
to ensure the future of the Jewish people.
But we also believe that this is not instead of personal giving.
It is equally important to give individually.
We share this message with our children and grandchildren.
They know that it is not enough for them to count on what
their parents or grandparents have established. They must
step up on their own. It would disappoint us if they missed
out on that experience for themselves.
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