Words Worth Repeating
Introductory remarks for Ladies Night Out, January 7, 2016
Delivered by Lauren Siegel at Temple Emanu-El, Westfield, NJ
For those who don’t know me, my name is Lauren Siegel. I am the third co-chair of Ladies Night Out.
I give to Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest. On occasion people ask me why. I often ask myself the same question when giving to any organization. Why? Why Federation? With so many Jewish and non-Jewish opportunities to give, why is Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest one of my recipients? Having a strong, healthy, vibrant Jewish community with excellent programs, inspiring agencies, houses of worship, and meaningful touch points, is what I want.
Why Federation? I have lived in Westfield for 22 years, and raised two children. Both children attended nursery school at the JCC in Scotch Plains, as well as the JCC summer camp. This meant that each day they had fun and were nurtured like children in other pre-schools and camps. But, at the end of the week and throughout the year, they celebrated the coming of Shabbat, they learned about Jewish values, Jewish holidays, and customs. I truly believe that those experiences in the early years help foster Jewish identity and purpose in life. As my children got older, they then worked as camp counselors at the J, which provided them with an opportunity to mentor the next generation. I want other children and their families to have the same opportunities that my family had. Jewish Federation supports our JCCs and YMHAs where these experiences happen.
Why Federation? As children age, they will have opportunities to participate in programs that create ties with Israeli teens, building living bridges. Our communities are fortunate to have shlichim and rishonim, who are Israeli ambassadors living in the community, working through our synagogues, day schools, and agencies. College students and young adults will be able to participate in Birthright to find their personal connection with Israel. (As a matter of fact, my daughter just returned from a Birthright trip this morning, and said she had the time of her life.) Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest funds all of these programs, and many more. I want to see young adults continue to have such opportunities for personal growth, enhance their identity, and to see the rest of the world in a different light.
Why Federation? I am part of the sandwich generation. About 1½ years ago, I relocated my 80-something parents from the warmth of Florida to less warm Westfield, NJ. My father is very much independent. He drives and continues to play golf several days per week. My mother has Alzheimer’s disease. After getting them settled into their new apartment, finding healthcare providers, and managing their legal and financial matters, I did two things. First, I got them a membership to the Senior Adult program at the JCC. Second, I encouraged my dad to attend the Alzheimer’s support group provided by Jewish Family Service. My mother may not be able to recall specific details of a program, but when I mention the JCC, she smiles and tells me how much she loves going there. With respect to the Alzheimer’s support group, my dad took my advice and attends meetings every month. He calls the meetings his “seminars.” When asked what he gets out of each “seminar,” he replied that he gets to learn caregiving strategies, learn to “go with the flow,” but more importantly, he knows that he is not alone in this. I want my parents to know that the Jewish community is there for them.
Why Federation? We are living in precarious times, and in some places across the globe, very dangerous times. One must understand that only Jews give to the Jewish community. I want to help my fellow Jew. I am proud to support this community’s fundraising organization, which helps my fellow Jews here at home, in Israel, and across the globe.
At your seat is Federation’s newest promotional piece. In it you will find how Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest restores hope, awakens identity, makes change, and provides opportunity for solidarity. What I want is to care for Jews in need, to build Jewish lives, and to save the world, one person at a time.
Now that I’ve shared why I give to Jewish Federation, and explained how Jewish Federation has touched my life, I ask you to ask yourself how Jewish Federation has touched yours.