This past Friday, as a community partner, I was invited to visit the National Council for Jewish Women's (NCJW) new distribution center set to open the next day in Highland Park. As I looked around at the displays and the goods available for those adversely affected by the fires, I experienced a feeling of awe and comfort in knowing that so much of our community has come together to help those in need. 

One of the silver linings from this crisis has been partnering with organizations, like NCJW, that are typically not working in our area. Over the years, our Jewish Federation has worked hard to develop partnerships and relationships that complement our work. My philosophy has always been to avoid providing resources and services that other organizations in our community are already doing. This way, we don't recreate what other organizations are doing, and we can maximize our available resources to help our community in the best way possible.

It has been amazing to see and experience the outpouring of support and recognition over the last two months. Opportunities to help others in need and to do so with as much dignity and humanity as possible have helped make the situation better for those I've been affected. For example, NCJW is asking affected individuals to register and make an appointment to visit their distribution center so they stagger when people arrive and have a relaxed time going through the racks. The center is set up like a regular department store, with racks of clothes and shelves/tables of household goods constantly being refilled by volunteers, with only the best being made available. (NCJW is looking for more volunteers. If you are interested, visit https://www.ncjwla.org/event/distribution-relief-center-volunteer/)

This is an example of the idea that when you are in the midst of a crisis, and so much of what is happening is beyond your control, each of us needs to figure out what we can control and lean into it.

Judaism reminds us of the importance of caring for others. It was Simon the Righteous (what an incredible nickname 😊) who is attributed to having the motto: The world stands on three things – Torah, service, and acts of loving-kindness. (Pirkei Avot 1:2). Without each of these, our world would not be as strong as it is.

While our tradition reminds us that by helping people, we bring ourselves closer to G-d, there is another vital point to remember. We have the opportunity and responsibility to be the best version of ourselves we can be. This might take different forms for each of us, but it is imperative that we remember that this is something that we can control and should use this moment to remind ourselves of.

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One final unrelated note… today is the 5th anniversary of the country's shutdown due to COVID. I bring this up because it was around this time that I began writing this column. My goal has been to use this "pulpit" to communicate to our community regularly and hopefully make people feel connected and informed on a regular weekly basis. While sometimes I am not sure what to write or share, I have genuinely enjoyed providing my insight, support, guidance, and perspective to our community. Thank you for reading these columns and sharing them with others.