It has always been of great satisfaction and passion for me to be able to play a role in helping address the needs of our community. It was how I was raised by parents who did the same. It is based in our religion with the mission of Tikkun Olam – repairing the world. It is not work I can do alone nor finish in my lifetime. But it is something that we all know that I must continue.
Being involved in one’s community is a critical part of living a meaningful and connected life. Communities thrive when individuals actively contribute their time, skills, and energy to the collective well-being. Supporting those most in need and working to strengthen the world through justice and equity is when we, as a Jewish community, are at our best. As a participant, I feel a sense of belonging. I feel more connected to my neighbors and community.
I have had the privilege of giving my time and talent to local, regional, national, and international organizations. From the smallest to the largest, I could not have seen progress toward our goals without the participation and cooperation of other people working together toward that same goal. By working with others from different backgrounds, individuals gain empathy, leadership skills, and a broader perspective.
I am not done working to improve our world, and I now find it is part of my personal mission to engage the younger generations to carry on with this important work. The personal benefits I have received by working with my volunteer role models who demonstrated the value of service, true and fair leadership, empathy, and a broader view of the world is something I can share.
Community engagement is not only important collective work, but it is essential to my well-being. It is work that will never be completed. But as we look toward the importance of the commitments we make each year at the High Holy Days we know that together, we can make a difference each and every year.