The Jewish Federation of Cleveland provided me tremendous opportunities to see its commitment to community building in Israel, Russia, and around the world firsthand. These experiences are part of why I have chosen to add my name to the Federation’s Endowment Book of Life.

One example that stands out is our work in St. Petersburg, Russia. As the Jewish community emerged from 70 years of Communism, the Federation fostered its renewal with the construction of the YESOD building in 2004. It became a home for the emerging Jewish community and the organizations that provide its social service needs. This marked an important beginning of a Jewish communal culture, closely mirroring the creation of our Federation of Jewish Charities in 1903.

A Rabbi I studied with many years ago said, “Be careful where you are walking because your children are following in your footsteps.” The Federation has given me the opportunity to walk as its representative, and I have been blessed to do it as a family, with Suellen and our children Justin, Alex, and Samantha. L’dor V’Dor.

I feel so fortunate to have the ability to perpetuate my annual gift to the Jewish Federation and enter my name into the Endowment Book of Life. There is no better way to give back to my community than to provide support the generations to come.