My Birthday Celebrates the JCC
“I celebrated my birthday on the last day of Passover. I am not
normally one to make a big deal about birthdays. But this year
was a little different. My Pandemic Passover birthday made
me a bit more reflective. Having spent the last 12th of this year
with the same 4 other people (and dog), I am reminded how
lucky I am.
I married someone that I love, and our kids are doing better
than can be expected. We have a roof over our heads, food in
our bellies, and most importantly, as far as we know, everyone
we love has avoided getting infected.
So, I decided to put my birthday to good use. I started a
Facebook Fundraiser to help raise money for the Mandell JCC.
I asked my friends and family that instead of taking me out
dinner, or buying me a drink (which they can’t do anyway), to
make a contribution to the Mandell JCC.
As a board member of the JCC, I am aware of how the
closure of the facility has impacted our financials. But also,
I have never been prouder of the JCC than I am now.
The quick transition that was made to a FREE virtual platform;
open to members and non-members was astounding. The
dedication that our staff has put in trying to engage people
from their living rooms and basements and kitchens beyond
belief. The hours that are being devoted planning for the
eventual re-opening are too many to count.
So by having my birthday fundraiser, and raising a little money
for the JCC, I feel like I contributed just a little to making sure
that the Mandell JCC is will able to remain the leader in Jewish
communal life in Greater Hartford.”
Read other stories of kindness at Mandell JCC: http://www.mandelljcc.org/clientuploads/JCC%20Engagement/gratitude/the_good_news_newsletter.pdf
