Before I started working with our Jewish Federation in 2011, I was not really connected to any Jewish Federation activities. But now, after working for our Jewish Federation for almost 15 years, I have learned how important our presence is in our community.

I run the Cultural Arts programming, offering people who enjoy singing and performing in Jewish-themed theater a great opportunity to get involved. For many, especially actors seeking theater groups, this is their only connection to the Jewish community. Without the opportunities from our Jewish Federation, I too would be looking elsewhere, but this gives me a Jewishly focused place to belong.

As someone who is not political, I would not be an activist on my own. However, I feel that our Jewish Federation, and especially our Executive Director, is very involved in protecting Jewish interests in the great San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys. When you live in a world where most of your activities are Jewishly oriented, it is easy not to be aware of what's happening outside that world. The Jewish Federation deals with the issues that have come up, particularly recently, since Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7. In my opinion, THIS is one of the most important reasons for the Jewish Federation's existence: caring for the Jewish community.

As you are most likely aware, because of our service area, our Jewish Federation was very much affected by the fires in Eaton Canyon and Pasadena last January. Many people in our community were impacted by this, either having to be evacuated or losing their houses completely. Our Jewish Federation was one of the main community organizations that helped not only our Jewish community but also everyone who needed help getting back on their feet. Many of the community members who participate in my programs were affected by this.

Of course, there are many other programs, including PJ Library, which sends Jewish-oriented children's books to our community youth every month, including my grandchildren. Where else would we know what has been written and what is appropriate for our children?

I think my life would be very empty without the Jewish Federation. We are a community where almost everybody knows everyone else, and it always feels like home. If anyone doesn't feel that way, send them my way—I'll help them get involved!