What We Learned at Borinsky
by Faith Fisch
What is Borinsky? That is the question I asked when I was told I would be a great candidate for the program. Well, I got my answer! After completing the program last year, I learned about all of Federation’s partner agencies and about the amazing work that Federation does for us and for Jews around the world.
The Arthur Borinsky Young Leadership Development Program is a starting point for learning everything about the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ. The program educates participants about Federation’s local and overseas agencies, the valued role of leadership in the community, and how money is raised and allocated to meet the needs of Jews locally and around the world. The eight-session program covers topics such as Jewish mutual responsibility, Israel, overseas partners, and the allocations process and includes a mini-mission to a local agency. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with women who share a passion for the Jewish community and to learn how to take advantage of the many opportunities for involvement in our Jewish Federation.
One experience that stands out for me was meeting Robert Lichtman, executive director of The Partnership for Jewish Learning and Life. He spoke about areyvut, a Hebrew word which means “peoplehood,” specifically the aspect of Jewish peoplehood concerning mutual responsibility. I was really moved by how Mr. Lichtman spoke about our duty as Jews to look out for and assist each other. I learned that the Partnership helps Jews make meaningful connections between Jewish learning, values, traditions, and everyday life. I was really impressed because there are so many different kinds of communities within the Greater MetroWest area and this organization is trying to unite them through Jewish learning. I hope that the Partnership succeeds at creating continuity and connectedness.
Another agency that I was impressed with was the American Joint Distribution Committee; our very own Dov Ben-Shimon spoke to us about all the work that is done overseas. I was fascinated by how much money and resources Federation gives to Jews in other countries. Who knew? Well, now I do. We rarely think about Jews outside of the U.S. or Israel, but there are so many Jews who are in need of help in countries that we don’t think about. The JDC helps people in need worldwide by providing food and money so they can survive and still be Jewish. This ties in again with the mutual responsibility we Jews have for one another.
One current member of the Borinsky program, Ilana Adams, said, “I had the opportunity to meet incredible women who inspired me with their personal stories and volunteer experiences. I was constantly wowed by the enormity of the Federation and its partner agencies. Each program was run with such efficiency and attention to detail. I feel very proud to be a part of our Federation.”
My experience was similar: the program opened my eyes to all the agencies Federation works with and how much they do. It created a desire in me to do more for the community and it gave me the tools to do that!
The Borinsky Young Leadership Program encourages continuity in our Federation. We are all responsible for each other, and Borinsky is a great way to get educated and excited about being part of something bigger than ourselves.
Hillel says, "If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, who am I? If not now, when?" Ethics of the Fathers, 1:14
Look out for Borinsky registration information next fall. If you would like to learn more about the program, click here to be directed to the Borinsky page on the Women’s Philanthropy website: http://www.jfedgmw.org/get-involved/join-us/borinsky-am