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The more you give the more you get back. That’s what
I experienced more than 45 years ago when I barely had two
cents to my name but still pledged my first gift of $200 to
the Jewish community. The feeling I got from that first pledge
was in itself a gift right back to me.
Over the years, I was blessed with the ability to give more
– both financially and also with my time and commitment.
One of my most rewarding Tzedekah experiences has been with
my involvement with Beit Halochem, an organization for disabled
Israeli war veterans. In 1978, I started Beit Halochem Canada
and brought groups of Israeli war veterans to Canada for two
week visits. Not only as a respite for them from their hardships,
but also as a fabulous opportunity to build bridges and forge
relationships in Toronto with our Israeli friends who protect
our cherished land of Israel. They visited schools, talked
to members of the community and experienced a bit of our life
in Canada. All around many lives were touched – including
mine.
Over the years, Beit Halochem Canada has grown substantially
as others have joined in the cause. My involvement has always
been personally rewarding because I knew I was contributing
something meaningful. The friendships and relationships I
made over the years, with both our Israeli and Canadian friends,
are priceless. Many are like second family to mine. Testament
to my belief that you get back far more than you can ever
imagine.
I share my values of Tzedakah and a love for Israel and the
Jewish community with my family: my wife Belle, our children
Lawrence and Heather, and our grandchildren, Stacey, Michael
and Jonathan.
We are all in this together.
My message today and to future generations is to go out and
give your best. Visit Israel. Connect locally. Just get involved
and contribute in some way. No words can describe the rewards.
But if you do it, you’ll know what I mean.
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