The Reflector July 2020 by Frederick News-Post

Jewish Community Federation

Reflector

the

in this

issue FEDERATION

Volume 68 | Issue 7

OF RICHMOND

STAY HEALTHY & SAFE

Tammuz/Av 5780

Opening Safely !

| July 2020

PJ LIBRARY PAGE 6

AGENCIES

A Year in Review PAGE 10

FOUNDATION

NEW CHAIRMAN TABLE of CONTENTS

PAGE 23 FEDERATION

AGENCIES

SYNAGOGUES

COMMUNITY

FOUNDATION

The Weinstein JCC welcomed back members for limited use of Athletic Wing activities in Mid-June – fitness facility and lap pool – and a modified summer daycare program. See Page 8 for details.

Federation Happenings

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www.JewishRichmond.org

A Time for Renewal “Real generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present.” - Albert Camus uly is a time of renewal for the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. We look back on the fiscal year that has passed and turn an eye toward the future. We thank those many volunteers and donors who allowed us to raise the human and financial resources to care for those in need, strengthen Jewish lives and build a vibrant Jewish future for Jews in Richmond, Israel and around the globe. The second half of the year did not finish the way we planned as COVID-19 caused us to change, refocus and pivot. It is precisely these situations that illustrate why Federation exists. The community systems and networks that Federation supports are there every day; allowing us to act swiftly and quickly when crisis occurs. It is with great pride I join my colleagues in sharing some of the activities of our Federation with you, our generous community in this Reflector.

Daniel Staffenberg Chief Executive Officer Jewish Community Federation of Richmond

Thanks to you, our fundraising efforts saw significant growth, raising $3.145 million and welcoming over 150 new donors. Super Sunday posted record results, we raised nearly $178,000 to date for our COVID-19 Crisis Relief Fund and we brought on a new Database Manger, Rebecca Spivey, to help us strengthen our fundraising systems. With our incredible volunteers and community partners, we engaged in programming and fundraising initiatives that encouraged more participation from the community at-large. Supporting our growing community is Federation’s primary focus and our ability to address the immediate as well as long-term needs is vital. Our Planning and Allocations teams have implemented new processes to stabilize our unrestricted funding and provide opportunity for more agencies and Synagogues to receive funding. We have redoubled our efforts

Federation Happenings

with our partners to understand the community’s needs today and tomorrow and through these efforts have identified specific areas where we as a community excel and where we have gaps in service. This will allow us to begin the process of developing programs, advocating, and partnering to ensure our community programming matches the needs of our community. Our Advocacy efforts resulted in two important pieces of legislation; strengthening Holocaust Education and providing Security funding to at-risk non-profits to pass the Virginia General Assembly. While COVID-19 may delay implementation, we are committed to seeing these through. Additionally, our Advocacy programming educated and further connected thousands to political, thought and community leaders. Notwithstanding the many successes of the previous year, we recognize there remains much more

work to be done. In the coming year, the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond will focus on creating sustainable, vibrant and welcoming Jewish life in Richmond. Feel free to reach out to me at daniel@jewishrichmond.org. Special Note: Thanks to significant support and advocacy from the JCFR and assessments and guidance from Federation Regional Security Advisor Dave Brackins, a total of $467,000 in Federal Homeland Security Grants have been awarded to local and regional Jewish non-profits. The Weinstein JCC, Beth Sholom Senior Living, JFS Richmond, Congregation Or Ami, Congregation Or Atid, Congregation Brith Achim, Hillel at Virginia Tech and Congregation Beth Israel, Charlottesville, all received grants ranging from $100,000 each to $15,000. This is a direct result of our investment in Security over the last 6 months.

JCFR COVID-19 Crisis Relief Fund: Supporting the community By Sara Rosenbaum Director, Impact & Community Planning n March as the Richmond Jewish community, along with the rest of the world went to shut down, the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond launched the Covid-19 Crisis Relief Fund to support our most vulnerable community members through funds at the Jewish Care Line and to the agencies and synagogues who offer care and resources to the community. The Covid-19 Crisis Relief committee has been working with the leadership of the Federation partner agencies to understand the growing needs in the community. The relief fund has raised $177,176 as of June 30 and has allocated $92,313 throughout the community. As the community begins to reopen, the committee will continue to evaluate ongoing needs and support the community and its members. The following is a rundown on the funds distributed as of June 30. $5,148 - iPads to JFS and Beth Sholom Senior Living for telehealth and senior connectivity $18,000 - Weinstein JCC to assist with Camp Hilbert Summer Preparations, Security and Virtual Programming costs $18,000 - Beth Sholom Senior Living to offset additional costs of $14/day per resident for additional care, funding 1,000 patient days

www.JewishRichmond.org

$7,000 - JFS Richmond to provide additional support and liquidity for Richmond Jewish Care Line $1,500 - Rudlin Torah Academy (RTA) for support for virtual distance learning $1,500 - Aleph Bet Preschool for supporting ongoing programming, distance learning and additional scholarships for those facing financial hardships $4,000 – For the 8 Community Synagogues to provide each with $500 to offset virtual Shabbat and Passover programs, and use at Rabbi’s discretion $5,000 – Daniel Staffenberg Discretionary fund in $500 increments $5,000 – JDC Coronavirus Fund for needs in Ukraine, especially for seniors facing additional hardships $1,000 – RTA to fully close its gap for COVID-19 technology expenses $15,000 – Weinstein JCC to employ a nurse and an inclusion and support staff member on site for the eight-week summer childcare program at Monument Ave., which will allow the Center to fully implement all health and safety best practices to operate during the COVID-19 crisis $5,230 – For special COVID-19 reopening kits with thermometers, masks, gloves and face shields to the agencies and all Synagogues in Richmond and Beth Israel, Charlottesville $5,000 -- For FeedMore’s Covid Response Fund that was matched

We thank the many community donors who have already made a gift to the JCFR Covid-19 Emergency Relief Fund, and if you would like to contribute, please visit https://www.jewishrichmond.org/covid19. Thank you to the COVID-19 Crisis Relief fund committee: Ellen Renee Adams, Miriam Davidow, Robyn Galpern, Howard Goldfine, Brian Greene, Larry Jackson, Amy Nisenson, and Ashley Noell; with support from Daniel Staffenberg and Sara Rosenbaum.

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 3

Jewish Community Relations Committee

Searching for answers, working for justice

By David Cohen JCRC Director Amy Melnick-Scharf JCRC Chair and Don Glazer JCRC Chair for Intergroup Outreach

he unconscionable death of George Floyd in late May, and the subsequent protests over a David Cohen deep and systemic racism in AmerDirector ica have shaken our society like few Jewish Community Relations events in recent memory. Jewish Community Federation We feel the need to DO someof Richmond thing; to fix the brokenness in our world. And we are searching for answers. It is frustrating sometimes when easy answers don’t come. But if the answers were easy, our society would have eradicated the issues of racism and discrimination generations ago. So what DO we do? No one action is sufficient, and many can potentially move us beyond our comfort zones. The work of dismantling oppression is and should be uncomfortable. To remain tranquil amidst suffering is to actively choose to ignore the abuse and mistreatment of a people—an act that itself contributes to those very systems of oppression. In our recent statement, the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, pledged to “join with our partners throughout Richmond and around the nation in demanding justice and systemic change.” We believe that “‘Justice for all’ must mean something and that our country simply cannot achieve the values to which it aspires until we address ongoing racism in all sectors and at all levels of society. We stand in solidarity with the peaceful protesters demanding this change, while we condemn the destruction and lawlessness that distracts us from the importance of the demonstrations.” It is clear to us that “the Jewish community knows all too well the dangers of bias and prejudice, particularly when it becomes institutionalized racism within the structures of society.” Our Federation, through its JCRC, “will work in common cause with the Black community to bring about a change that is long overdue. We will listen

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to and engage with our community partners to advocate for justice.” No one can offer simple antidotes to a prejudice that has been allowed to replicate and fester for hundreds of years. But we start by engaging in conversation because we have much to learn from the experiences of others. Some of these conversations will be new and some have been ongoing. Jewish Federations around the country - just like ours in Richmond - have been working for decades through their Jewish Community Relations arms to build relationships between the Jewish community and other ethnic and religious groups. We will have honest and sometimes uncomfortable conversations with our partners in the larger Richmond community about being black in America. We will be more inclusive of those in our own community who can help us learn more about what it means to be both black and Jewish in America. In both cases we will look to those conversations to learn more about how we eradicate injustice in our society and how we confront our own unconscious bias. The tradition of advocacy and self reflection at the core of Jewish belief and practice positions our community well to be part of the solution to these problems. It was our own history with racism in America that helped create the Black-Jewish alliance in the south during the civil rights movement. That is a legacy we can be proud of and one we can hope to revitalize as we set out to take action and make real change in our world. What You Can Do Today! • Show up. There is nothing more powerful than standing together and speaking with your legs. There are many groups organizing non-violent protests, marches, and prayer vigils - that also include masks and necessary distancing. It can be difficult to track these actions as they are not always centralized, but use social media to follow individuals and groups that are involved in organizing. Some of the groups most active in Richmond right now are the “NAACP” “For Richmond” and the “Baptist Ministers Conference.”

• Support and amplify. When you show up, if you are not a member of the impacted group, use your platform to amplify the voices of those who speak from experience - not your own. Follow the lead of Black organizers. Just as our Jewish community gets to determine how we understand anti-Semitism and how we want our partners to respond, so too those who are most impacted by these policies and recent events must have our support in defining the response. In keeping with that, when on social media, share voices of color and not just your own sentiments. •Educate yourself. Acknowledge your own prejudice. Doing this is not easy and it is not simple. It is a lifelong undertaking. Racism has existed in our country for hundreds of years and it cannot be wiped out in a matter of months. Investigate what is at the root of today’s larger issues. Try to understand the ways in which society’s structures might disproportionately impact the black community and people of color. Try to see the injustice that could be hiding under the surface of a system that might seem innocuous to those not impacted. • Focus on the core issues. You may not agree with everything that a group may say in their platforms or in their calls to action. Showing up to stand in solidarity with those suffering is about the recognition of the brokenness of our systems and is not an endorsement of something problematic the leaders of the group have said. • Advocate for change from home if you have to stay in. Even if you are unable to show up in person, you can still speak out by calling your elected officials and sharing your concerns. Protests and marches are meant to draw attention to causes and pressure those in power to make systemic changes. You can add to that pressure through phone calls, letters, emails and social media posts. • Speak up in your networks. This is often the hardest action for some people to take, but

it is also the most necessary. When you hear or see what you believe to be a racist comment or a clear example of prejudice, name it. If you find yourself in a situation where you notice it but feel that it is unwise or unsafe to say something, recognize that moment and use it as an educational opportunity at another time. •Volunteer/Get involved/ Participate: There are many organizations throughout Richmond where you can get involved with community building and addressing important issues like food and economic insecurity, and educational equity, Through the Federation as just one example, you can volunteer for the Richmond Jewish Coalition for Literacy, volunteer at FeedMore, join the work of our JCRC Sub Committee on Intergroup and Interfaith Outreach, and participate in the many virtual conversations around these issues - like our upcoming Virtual Town Hall with Senator Jennifer McClellan, Senator Jeff Bourne, and Councilwoman Kim Gray on July 29 at 3 p.m. (Please contact JCRC Director David Cohen at dcohen@jewsihridhmond.org to discuss these and other ways you can get involved.)” • And of course - Please don’t ever give-up! People often look for the “home-run” in achieving social change. Real, substantive change is more often about incremental steps. The educational moment, the behind the scenes conversations, the personal interactions - these are the things that often help us make the greatest progress - one small but important step at a time. The work is vast, the road is long, and the process is difficult. There are no shortcuts and no easy answers. But most of all, there is no excuse for turning a blind eye. Lo alecha hamlacha ligmor, v’lo atah ben chorin l’hivatel mimena “You are not expected to complete the task, but neither are you free to turn away from it.” Feel free to email dcohen@ jewishrichmond.org. www.JewishRichmond.org

www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 5

PJ Library engages families P J Library is an award-winning program started by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation that engages families in their Jewish journey by providing free Jewish books and music to families around the world. In Richmond, the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond supports our PJ Library program, and there are currently a total of

Federation Happenings

697 families enrolled in the program. Your children are learning about the world around them through the stories they hear. PJ Library books can bring Jewish ideas and inspiration for you and your children to share together. For more information about the program and how to sign up, visit pjlibrary.org.

A thank you to PJ Library

Xavier Beverly and his wife proudly hold their son. Contributed Photos

By Xavier Beverly first heard of PJ Library from a close friend who teaches preschool in NYC. She has a lot of Jewish students and uses PJ Library to help educate her classroom on Judaism. She recommended we sign up for the program because she loved receiving books each month for her class So, with that information my

wife and I researched the program and were immediately intrigued. Months passed as we waited for our beautiful baby boy to arrive and when he did we were so happy. Once our son reached 6 months of age we were so thrilled to have signed up for the books and eagerly waited for the books to arrive in our mailbox. Once we received our first book we were so happy to see an amaz-

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Baby “Beverly” holds one of his PJ Libary books that his mother and father read to him.

ing children’s book based on educating our child about Judaism. Of course, at 6 months our child does not know how to read, but the bonding and love we all share together while reading the book to our son is an amazing feeling. We think of when he will be able to read and will have a plethora of children’s books

to use for learning how to read that will be based in teaching him more about Judaism. As a family, we believe cherishing even the small moments of reading books together is something that will create fond memories for our son. And hopefully these memories of reading PJ Library books are something he will be able to pass on to his children as well. We are excited for more books, more memories and more education for our son on who he is and what Judaism means to our family thanks to PJ Library. www.JewishRichmond.org

JDC: Helping those in need in the FSU D

uring the world COVID-19 pandemic, JDC Volunteer Centers have been helping those in need in the Former Soviet Union. JDC’s establishment of Volunteer Centers and programs in the FSU dates to 2014, when this effort started as a small grassroots initiative in Kishinev, Moldova, led by a local graduate of JDC-FSU’s leadership program. Over the course of six years, the volunteerism program has grown to a cross-regional network operating via 44 centers in 8 countries, with over 6,000 volunteers helping over 32,000 beneficiaries a year. These volunteering efforts focus on helping three main audiences: vulnerable Jewish elderly, children atrisk and their families, and people with disabilities.

The volunteer programs encompass a broad range of causes, and span all age groups, in an aim to reflect all local community needs – including non-sectarian needs. The extensive training that volunteers receive at JDC’s Volunteer Centers primarily focus on helping them develop the skills and tools they need to be effective volunteers. Activities include discussion of Jewish texts and values, with many events planned around Jewish holidays. This sparks both participants’ and beneficiaries’ curiosity to learn more about Jewish culture and traditions. The centers have been helping to build a culture where Jewish community members feel they are not

Israel and Overseas Happenings

only consumers of activities, but have an active role in shaping how their communities function today and in the future. In addition, these centers have increasingly become vibrant open access points through which community members of varying backgrounds begin to rediscover their rich cultural heritage and take responsibility for others in their community. When the pandemic struck in March, trained and dedicated volunteers were ready to move into action. The following news items from a JDC/FSU special newsletter illustrate just some of the programs implemented by the Volunteer Centers during the crisis.

Volunteer Call Center in Dnipro, Ukraine

Forty volunteers, mostly young pensioners themselves, each reach out via telephone to eight elderly clients a week. The calls are filled with moral support, advice and information but mostly warm human care and connection, which many homebound, lonely clients crave and miss more than anything else. Although many volunteers are in the age-risk group themselves, and have been homebound during the crisis, they have continued calling their “phone friends.” They know their weekly call is now needed more than ever. In addition to touching base, they also have been advising on personal protection and safety guidelines, and other important information for their clients during the quarantine period.

Good Deeds Day in Ukraine

On May 15, JDC’s Volunteer Centers in Ukraine all worked on providing families, who lost their jobs or earnings during the crisis, with food assistance and a Shabbat kit, which was accompanied by on-line learning with volunteers on Shabbat. All in all, 19 Volunteer Centers in 18 cities across Ukraine participated in the program, with 171 volunteers working together to provide assistance to 179 families, which together reached more than 600 people.

“Help Desk” run by Active Jewish Teens in Vitebsk, Belarus In Vitebsk, Belarus, teens with AJT started a “help desk” tech support for elderly Hesed clients. As the teens found themselves out of school and at home, they decided to start this “help desk” to consult people who wanted to join online activities, but were not always sure how to do so. The teens helped the Hesed clients learn how to join Zoom sessions, install Skype or start a Facebook page. www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 7

Weinstein JCC Happenings

Scott Vitterman, customer service associate at the Weinstein JCC. welcomes back a Center member. Weinstein JCC photos

Weinstein JCC welcomes back members A

fter weeks of planning and preparation, the Weinstein JCC began welcoming members back inside the Center for limited use of its fitness facilities and a modified summer daycare program. On June 17, JCC members excitedly lined up per best social distancing practices for their reserved times in the Fitness Center and for lap swim. Members remarked, “It was so good to be back. Thank you all so much for everything you’re doing to make it safe. It went so smoothly!” After a reopening video and new guidelines and protocols were shared, members reserved their workout and lap swim times on weinsteinjcc.org prior to coming to the Center and arrived prepared and ready to safely enjoy many of the Center’s fitness and aquatics offerings. The staff team worked diligently in anticipation of the reopening to provide members with the most comfortable and enjoyable experience possible. On Monday, June 22, the halls and outdoor spaces were again filled with the happy chatter of kids, preschool through elementary school ages. The Weinstein JCC’s modified summer childcare programs entail many activities outdoors where chil-

dren can safely enjoy time together. Preschool-aged participants find joy in water play, gardening, art, nature walks, music time and more. After the first day of reopening, one preschool parent wrote, “Thank you so much. It felt so good to pull into the JCC this morning.” The parent continued, “From the signs on the fence, to the warm smiles and waves, it was such a wonderful day. I cried tears of joy and relief and fellowship after dropping my son off. Thank you to all the teachers and staff who put in the work to get things ready and for executing the day.” School-aged kids also enjoy many of the same outdoor activities as the younger children, with game time, art and pottery being a few of the favorites. The sunshine and time outdoors have brought fun-filled days for the kids, along with much-needed care for working parents during a challenging time. As one parent wrote, “Thank you to you and your team for such a seamless, well-planned, thorough process. I admire and appreciate your level of care and concern for everyone involved. I returned to work today with a light heart because I know my child is in the best care. You guys are amazing, and I want you to know that. Thank you for all that you do!”

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Center members take part in a recent fitness workout session. These workouts as well as lap swimming in the pool are being offered by appointment only for members who can make reservations up to 72 hours in advance for a 1-hour session. A reminder: masks are required when entering the Center. There also are a number of protocols in place to allow for safety during COVID-19.

The Weinstein JCC extended its operating hours in early July for limited Athletic Wing and lap pool activities for members by registration only. The hours are as follows: Mondays - Thursdays: 6 a.m - 8 p.m. Fridays: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturdays - Sundays: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Center is keeping restricted numbers to comply with the 10-foot social distancing requirement in gyms and continues to provide the safest and most comfortable experience for members. Reservations are still required and can be made at: https://weinsteinjcc.org/fitness-aquatics-wellness/fitness/athletic-wing-reopening-information/ To keep up with Weinstein JCC special announcements during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit www.weinsteinjcc.org. For any questions or comments, please email contact@weinsteinjcc.org.

The continued reopening of the JCC will be phased, per guidance from the Governor and local health authorities, with spaces and activities available as deemed safe and appropriate. “During these unprecedented times, our COVID-19 Reopening Team, staff and Board of Directors have relied on the guidance of the CDC, state and local regulatory agencies, as well as the Center’s mission and commitment to our community to drive our

decision making, as we have responded to this crisis,” said Orly Lewis, CEO. For more information about the Center’s reopening guidelines and protocols, go to weinsteinjcc.org. The Weinstein JCC is supported, in part, by a generous contribution, programming grants and COVID-19 Crisis Relief Funds from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

www.JewishRichmond.org

Weinstein JCC Happenings

5400 Club

upcoming Zoom programs

he Weinstein JCC 5400 Club is now holding Zoom programs. All programs begin at 12:30 p.m. Upcoming scheduled programs include:

In Memoriam Earl Ferguson 1947 - 2020

h e community mourns the passing of Earl Ferguson, a devoted community servant, who spent most of his life trying to

make the world, especially the Richmond community, a better place for all. As President of the Jewish Community Center in 2008-2010, his leadership and dedication during his tenure were instrumental in spearheading

July 20 -- Leo Mazow, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, curator. “The Art of the American Guitar.” July 27 -- Marc Selverstone, Miller Center University of Virginia, “Presidential Tapes During Crisis.” Aug. 3 -- Dr. Carol Summers, University of Richmond, “Make Your Money Fight: War Savings and Patriotic Thrift in the British World , 1939-1945.” Aug. 10 -- Dr. Lauren Bell, Randolph-Macon College, “The U.S. Congress: Co-Equal or Inconsequential?” Aug. 17 -- Dr. Dan Palazzolo, “The 2020 Congressional and Presidential Elections.” Aug. 24 --

large-scale upgrades and renovations to Camp Hilbert. Following the renovation, enrollment for the camp skyrocketed and its popularity as a weekend family destination grew. He also was Past President of Congregation Beth Ahabah as well as a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Union for Reform Judaism and the Treasurer of the Virginia Holocaust Museum. In addition, he was the founder of the Uniform for

Dr. Fred Beck, “Hitler’s Ambivalent Attaché.”

Aug. 31 -- Dr. Jason R. Arnold, VCU, “Truth, Lies, and Democracy in the Trump Era.” Note: The following programs and speakers are scheduled at Reflector press time. Any changes to the speakers will be communicated to members. Registration information with Zoom instructions will be sent to members who have signed up to receive. For more information, reach out to Norman Sporn at n.sporn@gmail.com.

Reform Judaism’s 6-Points Sports Academy, a sports camp for Jewish youth, a former Board Member of the Central Virginia Boys & Girls Club and of the Doorways (formerly the Hospital Hospitality House). For his valued community service, he was recognized in 2018 with the Humanitarian award from the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and received the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond’s Distinguished Community Service Award in 2017 May his family find comfort in the knowledge that so many share their loss and that he will live on forever in the memory of a grateful community.

www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 9

JFS: A Legacy of Caring and Hope

Wendy Kreuter JFS Photos

Sandy Sisisky

By Wendy Kreuter JFS CEO and Sandy Sisisky Board President s JFS started this fiscal year in celebration of our 170th anniversary, no one would have imagined what we would be facing as it ends. We can’t think of a year in our history that better highlights the JFS legacy of caring and hope. We were privileged to plan our 170th celebration with so many members of our community who have been part of our legacy. From the many staff and board members to our amazing Russian resettlement volunteers and families to current agency partners, you have strengthened our mission. JFS expanded our legacy of caring with two new initiatives. In October, we held our first annual Connecting Hearts Bowling Ball that supports our efforts to find loving families for children in Virginia’s foster system. In December, JFS launched our Lights of Love program to provide gifts to neighbors in need of a little extra help and warmth. With our partners at the Weinstein JCC and the overwhelming support of the community, 50 individuals of all ages received gifts and a reminder they are not alone. In the New Year, the JFS legacy of caring and hope was called on more than ever by Covid-19. From the first days of the pandemic, our doors remained open to provide critical services. The JFS

Counselors pivoted to telecounseling in one week. Our Home Care staff and aides delivered essential care to our most vulnerable older adults and kept them safe and connected. JFS volunteers called homebound seniors to offer food, access to medications and companionship. Our community partners have provided much needed resources to support our clients. Our JFS staff has worked tirelessly, often on the front lines, and always from the heart. Most recently, we are reminded of our work every day to fight injustice and inequality by bringing needed human services to individuals across Richmond regardless of race, faith, income, gender or sexuality. Our Richmond community can only be strengthened when everyone has a role in assuring the well-being of others. To the right you will find excerpts from an annual report letter written by JFS President Zipporah Cohen in 1918. We take strength in her words, so relevant today, and the reminder JFS will continue to meet each crisis and provide care to strengthen our community. We remain humbled and grateful for your support. Jewish Family Services is supported, in part, by a generous contribution, a programming grant to support the Jewish Care Line and COVID-19 Crisis Relief Funds from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

A portrait of JFS President Zipporah Cohen in 1918. A portion of an Annual Report letter she wrote is below. Portrait is Courtesy of Beth Ahabah Museum and Archives

“You find me again before you with a detailed account of the work of the year gone and the responsibilities of the year to come. I do not need to bring before you the meaning of responsibility. The anxieties of today, from the conflicts raging around us to those the world over, bring home the meaning of responsibility more clearly to our hearts than I can tell you all. “Each year we have strived to broaden our usefulness and today we stand forth like a giant oak, bringing shelter to those in need. From time to time, we have faced crises and periods of distress. But, suffice it to say that no crisis has come upon us that we could not take care of, and we have the satisfaction of knowing that our vulnerable have been well cared for. “My most grateful thanks for all who gave and to all who did not, may it be their pleasure to do so in the future. We know no matter what may come to us or how severe the test, we will be able to meet these demands, for in the hearts of our people dwell love and charity.” Respectfully submitted, Mrs. Sam Cohen President

Transforming Lives During the virtual JFS Annual Meeting on June 22, a video, “JFS Staff on Living Our Legacy of Caring and Hope,” was shown with first-person stories on how JFS is transforming lives. It featured a JFS caregiver, a counselor, and an administrator -- Rachel Rich, Sonni Gittelman and Teresa Baldwin -- sharing their experiences working through the Covid-19 pandemic. Each of them shared what living the JFS legacy of caring and hope means to them.

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To view the video, visit https://www.facebook.com/776619065727100/videos/1188115361531127 To view the JFS Annual Report, visit https://www.jfsrichmond.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/AR-2020.pdf www.JewishRichmond.org

JFS Happenings

Proudly Serving Richmond Since 1991

HOMESTYLE GREEK AND ITALIAN Dine-in seating now available!

Call for take out and curbside pick up!

9068 WEST BROAD STREET

270-6026

Former JFS Board members gathered at the 170th Birthday Party at the Virginia War Memorial last year.

The Heart Gallery on display at the Weinstein JCC last year.

JFS Counselor Sonni Gittelman as her clients see her in a telehealth counseling session.

www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector |11

Jewish Community Happenings

2020-21 Allocations to partner agenices, and local, national, regional and overseas agencies By Sara Rosenbaum Director, Impact & Community Planning he Jewish Community Federation of Richmond charges the Allocations Committee with making recommendations to the Federation’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors for the fair and equitable distribution of funds raised by the Federation’s Annual Campaign to our local beneficiary agencies and to select local, national, regional and overseas agencies. The Allocations to our partners is just one of the many ways Federation creates financial impact in the community from the funds raised by the community for the community. Under the leadership of chair, Howard Goldfine, and under the veil of the COVID-19 situation, the committee put in motion year one of the recently adopted Allocations Strategic Plan. In October 2019, the JCFR Board of Directors approved a three-year strategic allocation model, which locks in the unrestricted allocations of the 5 large community agencies. This plan and commitment will allow for better long term planning and allow the Federation to support as many program grants as possible, which helps to meet the desires of you, our donors and the ever-growing priorities of the community.

Unrestricted Allocations: Beth Sholom Home --

$165,000

Jewish Community Federation of Richmond -- $340,000

The JCFR allocations committee is still committed to supporting a variety of regional programs through smaller unrestricted funding. These grants support, Hillels throughout the state, Youth group programs, and educational programs.

Regional:

Jewish Family Services --

$120,000

Rudlin Torah Academy --

$140,000

Aleph Bet Preschool --

$15,000

Weinstein JCC --

$245,000

BBYO --

$15,000

The committee reviewed a variety of thoughtful, community building, program grant applications from more organizations than ever before. Over $490,200 in requests were received and the committee allocated $226,523 in programmatic grants this year. Even as the coronavirus pushed us to reevaluate and pivot a variety of programs, after thoughtful discussion with the agencies that submitted, the committee knew it was important to allow these programs to have the ability to be implemented and grow in the 2020-21 fiscal year.

NCSY Jewish Student Union --

$15,000

George Mason Hillel --

$5,000

Jewish Life at VCU --

$10,500

JELF --

$540

Radford Hillel --

$1,000

RCJE --

$18,000

Birthright Israel --

$1,000

Program Grants:

UVA Hillel --

$5,000

Aleph Bet - Expansion -$10,000 Beth El - Shalom Israel RVA -$4,000 Beth Sholom/JFS – Jewish Hospice -$5,000 Chabad - Holiday Awareness Program -$3,000 Chabad - Mezuzah Campaign -$1,000 Emek Sholom Cemetery - Kristallnacht -$2,500 Friendship Circle - Birthday Circle-$5,000 Friendship Circle - Inclusion Day at the Diamond -- $5,000 Friendship Circle - RVA Inclusion Task Force -$2,000 Jewish Life at VCU - Student Engagement -$25,000 JFS – Richmond Jewish Care Line -$35,000 KBI - Women’s Leadership Initiative -$5,000 RTA - IDEAL -$12,000 RTA – Scholarships -$20,000 Weinstein JCC - EnRich -$12,000 Weinstein JCC - Financial Assistance/Scholarships -- $30,000 Navigating the Future Funding -$50,000

VAAD --

$500

VT Hillel --

$5,000

William & Mary Hillel --

$1,000

Israel and Overseas

$549,839

12| the Reflector | July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780

Approximately 30% of the Annual Campaign dollars raised support the work of our partners in Israel and Overseas, primarily through the work of the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and the Jewish Agency. The JCFR is proud to be a leader across the Federation systems that value and continue to fund the work supporting our family across the ocean. Thank you to the members of this past year’s allocations committee: Chair Howard Goldfine, JCFR President Ellen Renee Adams, Phyllis Ellenbogen, David Galpern, Josh Goldberg, Helen Griffin, Seth Kaplan, John Myers, Richard Samet, Nannette Shor, Nathan Shor, Stuart Simon, Stanley Ullaman, Elliot Warsof, Robert Weisberger, and Franklin Wolf. For more information on the Federation’s Allocation, contact Sara Rosenbaum at (804) 545-8629 or srosenbaum@jewishrichmond.org. www.JewishRichmond.org

Allocations Summary of Programs for 2000-2021 The following are summary descriptions of each of the JCFR Programming Grants for the 2000-2021 year. Aleph Bet - Expansion The request was for funding to expand the current space and learning environment for the community’s only Montessori-based, Jewish preschool. Montessoristyle learning focuses on children learning through independence and exploration, which dictated the need for ample space per child. The youngest class of 2-to-3year olds currently is at maximum capacity and Aleph Bet is unable to serve additional children. This project will remove one wall and fireplace and raise the floor in the adjacent room to incorporate the library into the current classroom space, doubling the number of students who can be taught. Beth El - Shalom Israel RVA S.H.A.L.O.M. Israel RVA: Richmond’s Center for Serious, Honest and Accessible Learning on the Middle East and Israel is an initiative to engage the Jewish community in thought-provoking, challenging, and productive dialogue about Israel and the Middle East. The 2020-2021 program year will be SHALOM Israel RVA’s second year, and they are looking to build on the successes from year one. Founded in 2019 and housed at Temple Beth-El, SHALOM Israel RVA nurtures a space in Richmond for sensitive and subtle Israel engagement and respectful, productive disagreement; striving to hold and expand the vast middle ground between unflinching advocacy and reflexive criticism, exploring Israel in all of its exciting complexity. Beth Sholom/JFS - Hospice: Beth Sholom Senior Living and its partner Jewish Family Services will develop a home- based hospice care program grounded in Jewish traditions and values. It will provide quality end-of-life care for all persons seeking to complete their life’s journey in a faithful manner, surrounded by home, family and loved ones. Once established, the non-profit hospice program will be self-sustaining from fee-for-service reimbursements after its second year of operations. Chabad - Holiday Awareness Program Requesting funding to implement a holiday awareness campaign to educate and connect hundreds of Jewish families throughout the greater Richmond area to their Judaism, leading to not only a deeper spiritual connection but also a desire for more integration into the Jewish community as a whole. This program would send holiday kits to families in Richmond to include education material, a how-to guide, and a holiday gift such as a menorah and candles, and Shabbat lighting kits. Chabad - Mezuzah Campaign The request was for funding to implement a community-wide Mezuzah campaign in which Mezuzahs are delivered and put up on doorways for families all across the greater Richmond area, providing a connection to Judaism and a personal meeting to help make that connection and integration into the Richmond Jewish community easier. www.JewishRichmond.org

Emek Sholom Cemetery - Kristallnacht Emek Sholom Holocaust Memorial Cemetery holds the second oldest American historic memorial to remember the 6 million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. It is an active cemetery open to all of the Jewish faith. Its vision is to bring people of all faiths to this idyllic site to remember those lost, to affirm our Jewish faith, and to educate against all hatred. Emek Sholoms requested funds for the annual Kristallnacht Remembrance program held each year in mid-November. This program is both a memorial service and a call to eradicate anti-Semitism, bigotry, and genocide. Friendship Circle - Birthday Circle Birthday parties are real social experiences for children. Children with disabilities, however, often get left out of birthday invitations and do not necessarily have lots of friends to invite to their own parties, and often have parties at home with family instead. Friendship Circle of VA monthly Birthday Circle program allows its members with disabilities to experience birthdays with friends celebrated in exciting locations throughout the city for FREE. For parents of children with disabilities, hosting birthday parties in these locations or often even visiting them, is usually cost prohibitive. Therefore Birthday Circle has multiple benefits: friends, fun, access to recreational opportunities, and meaningful, inclusive social experiences throughout the community. Because of Birthday Circle, children of all abilities can celebrate these important milestones in their lives like birthdays, often their first time riding a horse or climbing a rock wall, together with friends and family all at the same time. Friendship Circle - Inclusion Day at the Diamond Friendship Circle is partnering with Fas Mart and the Flying Squirrels to present Inclusion Day at the Diamond highlighting Disabilities and Mental Health in 2021. Friendship Circle will give away 10,000 tickets to the Richmond community featuring logos of 8 premier sponsors of the event. These free tickets will be distributed to Disability and Mental Health-related organizations and families in the Greater Richmond area though the local non-profit organizations that support them. The goal is to normalize inclusion and support for people that need it in a very public and family friendly way in Richmond. Public support of the disability community by local business and organizations is very meaningful to the disability community. Public and unified support for inclusion is what starts the conversations of implementing support throughout the community where needed, and sets the stage for practical impact to be made. Friendship Circle - RVA Inclusion Task Force: This project is to continue the 2nd year of the Jewish Community Disability and Inclusion Task force in Richmond organized and led by Friendship Circle of VA in partnership with the JCFR and consists of members from the following organizations: Aleph Bet Preschool, Chabad of VA, Congregation Beth Ahabah, Congregation Brit

Achim, Congregation Or Ami, Congregation Or Atid, Friendship Circle of VA, Jewish Family Services, Jewish Life at VCU, KBI, RTA, Temple Beth-El and Weinstein JCC. This task force was launched to convene the partners to formalize community discussions on what is provided as a whole and what needs to be done in order to improve inclusion of the Jewish disability community in RVA. Jewish Life at VCU - Student Engagement Jewish Life at VCU seeks to continue and further develop its new Student Engagement Program. The goals are to make Judaism matter more to each Jewish student at VCU and VCU Health, through engaging them according to each student’s interest and needs. Jewish Life will engage and enhance the lives of Jewish students on campus by providing an engaging, warm and inclusive environment. This program is modeled after the Hillel Springboard Fellowship program and has previously received support from JCFR. JFS - Jewish Care Line The Richmond Jewish Care Line Supports an individual or family in crisis with short term financial assistance, one-on-one social work, and other resources to help them recover from the crisis and return to financial and life stability: career coaching, financial counseling, navigation of available public benefits, and other resources to help them get back on their feet. The Care Line Task Force, composed of leaders from the JCFR, Richmond Jewish Foundation and JFS overseas the Care Line performance. JFS social workers answer Care Line calls and work with clients to help them with their immediate needs and support them to achieve stability. The Jewish Care Line has received programmatic support for the past two years from JCFR. KBI - Women’s Leadership Initiative Requested funding to organize and execute a Richmond Jewish Women’s Leadership Initiative. The goal of this unique and creative program is to recognize and nurture women’s leadership by providing Jewish women with the framework and skill set needed to take on greater leadership roles within their respective Jewish institutions. RTA - IDEAL I.D.E.A.L. – Inclusive, Dual-Education fro Accessible Lessons. This program will strengthen and enrich lives of our Jewish youth and maximize inclusion in at Rudlin Torah Academy and community. RTA’s mission continues to be to offer a top-quality Judaic and General Education for every Jewish child in the Richmond area. Part of that mission is to ensure that each and every child receives the best possible educational experience for the unique individual that he or she is. The IDEAL program will do just that. RTA - Scholarships This grant will help create a new scholarship fund for local RTA families. The fund will be a significant help for the school’s tuition assistance for local families. RTA is committed to ensuring that no Jewish child should be denied a Jewish Education due to the inability to pay full tuition. JCFR Program Summaries More on page 23

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 13

Beth Sholom Happenings

Beth Sholom Thanks All

he dedicated staff members at Beth Sholom Senior Living have continued to receive special gift bags, lunches and more from many people and organizations over the past few months recognizing them for serving on the front lines. The employees in all departments want to thank everyone for their amazing support and kindness during the COVID-19 pandemic. A few Facebook photos are displayed.

ABOVE/LEFT Beth Sholom staff members display the gift bags received in June from Bob and Anita Schneider. Contributed Photos

The gift bags received in June from Bob and Anita Schneider were displayed before being given to Beth Sholom staff.

Thank you to Bob and Anita Schneider and all of their helpers for organizing and creating these beautifully crafted gift bags filled with wonderful surprises (gift cards too)!

(From left) Patience and Deirdre Arnowitz with Anita Schneider posing next to just some of the gift bags donated recently by Anita and her husband, Bob, to the Beth Sholom team.

14| the Reflector| July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780

www.JewishRichmond.org

. MAH JONGG MADNESS Dear Friends,

Thank you for your continued support for Mah Jongg Madness! As you may recall Mah Jongg Madness was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the effect on Beth Sholom, we will be unable to reschedule for this year.

Beth Sholom Happenings

Thank you to all the community members for your wonderful donations to the Food Pantry for the residents at Beth Sholom Woods. Somes things the residents particularly need at this time are listed below should you like to donate. Canned Fruit Tissues Paper Towels Dish Soap

We recognize that many of you had purchased your ticket for this event. Beth Sholom has experienced an unprecedented financial impact due to costs associated with fighting this pandemic. We would greatly appreciate it if you would consider donating your ticket fee of $36 to help offset these costs. Should you prefer otherwise, Beth Sholom will be happy to refund your fee. Please contact us at Communications@bslcc.org or call (804) 421-5355. Also, for those who had not purchased a ticket, this is a great opportunity to donate. You may do so by visiting our website at www.bethsholomliving.org/give/ .

To drop off donations, we request people call ahead to 804-741-4691. The office is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. As always, we appreciate your continued support!

We had planned to hold our traditional silent auction at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event. In order to continue the tradition, we are excited to share that we will be bringing our Mah Jongg Madness Silent Auction to you online! Please be on the lookout for more information! Thank you and please stay healthy and safe!

Morris S. Funk, President & Chief Executive Officer and Mah Jong Committee Members Susan Beller Melissa Brownstein Mindy Funk Debbie Leo Barbara Lustig Beth Stein

1600 John Rolfe Parkway | Richmond, Virginia 23238 | Main (804) 750-2183 www.bethsholomliving.org

Thank you to Congregation Beth Ahabah members and friends for generously stocking The Beth Sholom Woods food pantry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; donating over $1,000 in non-perishables and household supplies. Also thanks again to Beth Ahabah members for donating more gift bags to the Beth Sholom team. Beth Sholom Facebook Photos

GARDENS & PARKSIDE ASSISTED LIVING |WOODS INDEPENDENT LIVING |HEALTHCARE CENTER |OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION CLINIC|GENERATIONS HOME HEALTH

A group from Beth Sholom gives a big thank you to Jim Beckner and the Richmond Academy of Medicine for generously arranging and donating weekly meals to the Beth Sholom team from area restaurants.

www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 15

RTA Happenings

Mazel Tov to the RTA graduates

RUDLIN TORAH ACADEMY RICHMOND HEBREW DAY SCHOOL

Stellar Education for Every Jewish Child

RTA graduates line up before their graduation ceremony at Richmond Academy (the former site of RTA) on June 15. Photos Courtesy of Dr. Bob Weisberger

hirteen 8th grade students graduated from Rudlin Torah Academy during a unique ceremony and event June 15. The graduation was an in-person event for graduates’ immediate family and staff only, but there were two ways anyone could join in. For the first time, the graduation was live-streamed on Zoom. And, people also were invited to join in for a Graduation Day Parade in honor of the graduates. The special parade was a surprise to the graduates. Community members, many wearing their RTA spirit wear and driving decorated vehicles, met up at Tuckahoe Village Shopping Center at about 6:30 p.m. and then paraded west to the old RTA parking lot on Patterson Avenue - the site of this year’s graduation at Richmond Academy, which hosted the event.

The 13 graduates are: Dovid Aronowitz

Tamar Kranz

Chaviva David

Jeremy Levin

Reuben Baines

Zalmi Mayer

Ephraim Francis

Sheindy Paley

Nathanel Gimpelevich

Yarden Rand

Avi Greene Joy Holi

Amira Sherman

16 | the Reflector | July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780

Rabbi Yosef Bart, principal of RTA, holds up a special “Congratuations Class of 2020” shirt that was presented to all the graduates during the ceremony. www.JewishRichmond.org

RTA Happenings

These photos show many of the RTA graduates with their families proudly holding their diplomas. Also pictured are several of the decorated vehicles in the Graduation Parade that took place just before the ceremony. Photos Courtesy of Dr. Bob Weisberger

www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 |the Reflector | 17

Synagogue Happenings

Congregation Brith Achim Happenings

Chabad Happenings on Zoom

Chabad of Virginia is offering regular events and special classes on Zoom. For more information, visit www.chabadofva.org.

Two family members welcome Congregation Brith Achim members to a social-distanced picnic outing at R. Garland Dodd Park in Chester in June. Contributed Photo

ongregation Brith Achim is forging ahead with novel ways to address congregational needs during the COVID-19 crisis via social distancing. Like many organizations, we are using Zoom for distanced meetings. We are also engaging in well-protected, conservatively-approached in-person meetings, following governmental guidelines as well as the advice of several doctors who are helping us plan events. April and May saw Congregation Brith Achim shift Shabbat services to Zoom. We also have introduced Thursday night Torah study video conferencing. A highlight has been Rabbi Dennis Beck-Berman sharing passages of his book project (Timeless Torah), detailing the mystical underpinnings of Avot. Our Men’s Club has also been active during the pandemic. The group continued its Israeli film viewing, with an online viewing of “Runaway Train” during the spring. June featured a distanced Frisbee golf and picnic outing at R. Garland Dodd Park in Chester. June also featured the congregational Board Meeting, held both in-person and via Zoom. Congratulations to Diane

Emory for her re-election as president, as well as to all the new and continuing board members! July continues the Thursday night Torah study and weekend Shabbat services on Zoom. Men’s Club is looking at projects to prepare the Synagogue for the High Holidays and for volunteer opportunities in the community. Another distanced picnic is planned, this one featuring Corn Hole. The future looks bright. We expect Virginia to return to near-normalcy by the fall, but are developing contingency plans for distanced High Holiday services. The Education Committee will introduce both young-children’s Shabbat services, filled with music, story-telling and learning objectives for our youth, as well as conversational Hebrew classes. Children’s Shabbat services will be contingent on a loosening of the pandemic restrictions, but Hebrew classes would be held online if significant restrictions are still in place. For details on any events, contact David Goldstein at drdaveg@gmail.com. Stay healthy, happy and spiritual!

18 | the Reflector | July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780

Did You Know? Through your gifts to the JCFR COVID-19 Crisis Relief Fund, reopening kits with masks, face shields, gloves and thermometers have been provided to all area Synagogues by the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond www.JewishRichmond.org

Beth-El Religious School Happenings

Synagogue Happenings

By Ramona L. Brand Director of Youth Learning

Hello Summer! CampTBE is here!

Camp TBE is happening. We’ve already have had several weeks of fun with elective online classes that have been open to all, including A World of Jewish Stories held July 6, 8 and 10 and The Art of Jewish Papercutting held July 12. There is much more coming up and still time to register. For registration information, visit https://www.bethelrichmond.org/camptbe Not a member of Temple Beth-El? No problem. Email Ramona at r.brand@bethelrichmond. org for registration information. Jewish Richmond Tour and Scavenger Hunt Sunday, July 19, a self-paced Richmond tour and scavenger hunt is offered followed by virtual Zoom meet-up at 4 p.m. Ready for a summer road trip? Looking for an action packed challenge with your friends? Want to learn the secrets of an historic Jewish community. Join us for a special scavenger hunt of Jewish Richmond, followed by the virtual meet up to solve the final piece of the puzzle. You’ll learn about the special Jewish story of our city, from its beginnings to 2020. Please note: the Scavenger hunt will be self-led (each family that registers will receive instructions) in order to practice safe social distancing. Led by Miriam Aniel Time Traveler 3 sessions: July 20, 22, 24 What was life like for a Jewish child living in New York in the early 1900s? We’ll experience it together through the story of American Girls’ Jewish doll, Rebecca Rubin. So, grab your favorite doll, action figure or soft animal friend. We’ll read Rebecca’s story and taste immigrant life through crafts, games, songs and food. (we’ll make some pickles together- virtually of course!) Craft boxes will be delivered to families who register. For registration information visit: https://www.bethelrichmond.org/camptbe Garden Explorers Available from July 20 - August 21 (excludes Saturdays) Schedule individually with Ramona Brand Need some outdoor activity? Come to the Temple Beth-El Religious School Nature Center for some summer exploration. Look for butterflies, have a scavenger hunt, find prayer in nature, conquer the low-ropes course, hike through the woods. What’s Jewish about nature? Come find out! Schedule an individual family visit at a convenient time. We will practice health and safety guidelines to enable a one on one family experience outdoors. To schedule, email Ramona Brand. Registration for the 2020-2021 Religious School year is open! For Pre-K through grade 10: Our innovative and child-centered approach to Jewish learning provides a dynamic environment where Jewish education is joyous, fun, inspiring and spiritual. Skill level Hebrew enables students to learn at an independent pace and move comfortably toward mastery. Our creative program incorporates electives, hands-on learning and interactive education. NOTE: In response to the changing guidelines for educational programming, due to the Covid-19, the religious school is developing a flexible fall program to include both virtual and classroom instruction. The health and well-being of our students and teachers is a primary concern as we develop the fall schedule. General school schedule: Grades: Pre-K – 2 / Sundays 9 a.m. - noon; Grades: 3-7/ Sundays 9 a.m. - noon and Wednesdays 4:15 p.m. - 6-:14 p.m. Interested in learning more about our school? Contact Ramona at r.brand@bethelrichmond. org • Temple Membership is not required for families with students in Pre-K through 2nd grade and 8-10. • Online registration https://www.bethelrichmond.org/school www.JewishRichmond.org

Beth-El Brown Religious School is Hiring Teachers Are you passionate about Jewish Education? Want to make a difference and an impact? Are you creative? Can you think outside the box when it comes to Jewish education? Do you want to give kids authentic and thought provoking Jewish experiences? If you answer yes to these questions, you belong here! Teach in a dynamic learning environment where education is joyous, fun, inspiring and spiritual. Temple Beth-El is seeking teachers for both Hebrew and Judaics instruction. For information, to receive an application or to be placed on an email list for upcoming events, contact r.brand@bethelrichmond.org.

A Letter from Michael J. Doniger

am happy to report that after an extensive search, we have selected a highly qualified candidate, Tess Goldblatt, to carry on the good work that Faith (Kallman) has been performing. Tess comes to us from Newport News, where she previously served as Administrator (Executive Director) at Rodef Sholom Temple. Indicative of Tess’ skills, talents, and dedication is the fact that she started as a religious school teacher at RST. She rose to become the congregation’s Education Director and eventually, its Administrator. Our search committee was very impressed with Tess’ accomplishments in her 7 years as RST’s Administrator which included extensive teamwork to construct their new temple building. Tess began her career as an Army paratrooper, which may contribute to her strong sense of ownership, mission-driven focus on execution, detailed planning, and an immensely personable approach that I am sure we will all enjoy. Tess and her husband Rick raised two children, Annie and Josh, both now grown. Annie and her husband recently completed their graduate studies, and the newlyweds find themselves in a covidly-interrupted transition. Josh is a paramedic firefighter in Williamsburg. Tess will start her transition on a limited basis as of Monday, June 29. Faith’s last day is July 31, at which time Tess will assume her duties as Executive Director. If you haven’t already, I expect you will see her soon at various Beth-El functions on Zoom. Thank you to Benita Felmus, GD Rothenberg, and Marjie Patterson for their help screening candidates and conducting interviews. Additionally, thank you to Rabbi, Cantor, Ramona, Norma, and Hannah for their assistance welcoming and interviewing our finalist candidates. The Board, clergy, staff and I all look forward to working closely with Tess and urge you to show her a warm Beth-El welcome! L’shalom, Michael J. Doniger President

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 19

Jewish Community Happenings

BBYO staffing changes B

BYO Eastern Region recently announced some staffing role changes. As announced earlier in the year, Regional Director Ryan Woloshin left BBYO at the end of June to attend graduate school. BBYO has announced that Associate Regional Director Lauren Revenson will become the lead staff in Eastern Region as regional director. As an alum of Eastern Region and a Richmond native, Revenson served as a chap-

Lauren Revenson Contributed Photo

ter advisor and has worked for BBYO for 3+ years. She is a graduate of Radford College. Prior to her professional role with BBYO, she was a pre-school teacher at the Weinstein JCC. She is in the process of moving back to her hometown. Revenson said, “ As an alum, former advisor and staff in Eastern Region this truly feels like a full circle moment for me. I have loved working for BBYO over the past 3+ years and I am excited to be making this transition to continue supporting Eastern Region teens, families and communities.”

She continued, “Although I am sad that I will not be seeing the Charlotte teens every Tuesday night at programming, I am happy to be moving closer to my family and immersing myself back in the community that I grew up in” To reach out to her, email lrevenson@bbyo.org. For more on BBYO, visit bbyo.org/bbyo-near-you/regions/eastern-region

Thank you Friends of Reflector The Reflector staff and Jewish Community Federation of Richmond thank the following for their donations to the Friends of Reflector during our Spring 2020 request. As always, we thank the community for supporting the Reflector. Stay healthy and safe.

Vivian L. Burton Edith Glock Edith Himelbloom Inge Horowitz Jane & Joel Knox in memory of Leon Salamon

20 | the Reflector | July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780

Randy & leon Howard Charles & JoAnn Myers Wallace Saval Nancy Walter Marshall Wolf

www.JewishRichmond.org

Jewish Community Happenings

For the status of Network JCFR upcoming Zoom or other events and details, contact Amanda Braun at abraun@jewishrichmond.org. Also, visit jewishrichmond.org/network or www.instagram.com/jcfrichmond/

Looking For Help The Jewish Community Federation of Richmond has a detailed list of resources on its website to help community members during the COVID-19 pandemic. For details, visit https://www.jewishrichmond.org/response-to-covid-19. www.JewishRichmond.org

Looking for ways to stay connected

Our community has stepped up to provide opportunities for learning and connection across greater Richmond and the world. Check out the Community Calendar for opportunities and online resources by visiting www.jewishrichmond.org/calendar. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to follow our Facebook page for more ways to connect! Visit ww.facebook.com/JCFRichmond.

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 |the Reflector 5780| 21

VHM reopens with special COVID-19 protocols T

he Virginia Holocaust Museum reopened on Monday, July 6 with special safety and health guidelines and precautions for visitors. volunteeers and staff. Executive Director Samuel Asher noted in his reopening announement on July 2, “It is with great pleasure that we welcome our friends, supporters, students and teachers back to the Virginia Holocaust Museum! We are happy to announce that the only museum in Richmond that employs the history of the Holocaust and other genocides to educate and inspire Virginians to fight prejudice and indifference, will re-open on July 6, 2020!” He continued, “We have taken all of the steps necessary to ensure the safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff. We look forward to seeing you again.” Asher added, “ As always, the Virginia Holocaust Museum is free and open to the public. However, we ask that you sign up online to visit the museum. This will allow us to space groups out who are visiting the museum in order to maintain social distancing.” Among the safety measures in place are the required wearing of face coverings for visitors, staff and volunteers (as required by Executive Order), with exceptions for young children. Masks will be available at the VHM front desk. Visitors will be asked to conform to a one-hour visit. There will be a limit on the number of guests in the museum at all times. The museum is open Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. To review all the guidelines for a visit and to register, visit https://www.facebook.com/VHMrichmond/.

Virginia Holocaust Museum Happenings

Returning Exhibit: Auschwitz/Oswiecim T

he Virginia Holocaust Museum invites visitors to its Auschwitz/Oswiecim exhibit, a temporary exhibit designed as a commemoration to local Survivors who endured this notorious camp. It serves to illustrate its significance within Nazi ideology. It is located on the museum’s 2nd floor. For more information, visit https://www.vaholocaust.org/?exhibition=auschwitzoswiecim

‘Beyond Duty’ exhibit continues at VHM The VHM is pleased to announce that its “Beyond Duty” exhibit has been extended through the Fall 2020. The core of the exhibition is comprised of the stories of 9 diplomats who were recognized as “Righteous Among the Nations.” The stories represent diversity: different countries of origin, various countries where they operated different types of rescue actions taken in various stages of the Holocaust. The stories are woven into the historical chain of events of the Holocaust, along with more specific historical background relevant to each of the 9 stories. While the countries of the free world were reluctant to help Jewish refugees, and while most diplomats continued to employ standard procedures, only very few felt that extraordinary times required extraordinary action and were willing to act against their governments’ policy. Only a small minority mustered the necessary courage to recognize the significance and consequences of obeying their superiors’ instructions. The free exhibit is made possible by the Embassy of Israel in Washington and Yad Vashem. To visit the VHM, guests must register at this time.

22| the Reflector| July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780

www.JewishRichmond.org

Foundation selects new leadership

Foundation Happenings

Frances Goldman Rick Looney Jeffrey Scharf Jessica Samet Jeff Lacker By Robert Nomberg president & ceo richmond jewish foundation ichmond Jewish Foundation recently a steward of charitable funds and the proand has chaired the Grants Committee. installed new directors and officers to vider of the means necessary to help doShe will remain an active member of the fulfill its mission of serving as a primary, nors achieve their philanthropic goals, now Grants Committee. Rothenberg has also trusted and expert resource for planned and in the future. The hundreds of RJF served two terms on the board and the giving and endowments in our community. donors help put needed resources into the Executive Committee and has chaired the RJF accomplishes its mission by engag- community here in Richmond, around the Investment Committee. He will remain an ing, educating and inspiring generations country and the world.” active member of the Investment CommitHe continued, “RJF will continue to of donors to create ongoing resources for tee. charitable, religious and educational needs. support its mission through the Hirschler Members of the Nominating CommitFrances Goldman, outgoing board Seminar for professional advisors, varitee include Jim Weinberg, Frances Goldchair, installed RJF’s new directors and of- ous learning opportunities for donors and man and Adam Plotkin. ficers. New officers include Board Chair through our transformative Life & Legacy For additional information on RJF, Jeffrey Scharf, Treasurer Jeff Lacker, Sec- initiative.” email Robert@rjfoundation.org. During the meeting, Goldman thanked retary and Investment Committee Chair Rick Looney, and Assistant Secretary and the following directors who are rotating off Grants Committee Chair Jessica Samet. the RJF board: Tom Byer, Miriam DaviNew directors in the Class of 2023 include dow and GD Rothenberg. Byer has served Scott Belleman, Robert Flax, Howard two terms on the board and the investTHE ment committee and will remain an active Goldfine and Eric Shoenfeld. When asked why the RJF chairmanship member of the Investment Committee. was important, Scharf answered, “Rich- Davidow has also served two terms on the mond Jewish Foundation is important as board as well as the Executive Committee How good & pleasant it is

REFLECTOR

for brethren to dwell in unity.

JCFR Program Allocations Continued from page 13

Weinstein JCC - EnRich for Life The collaborative program, EnRich for Life, presented by the Weinstein JCC and JFS, focuses on improving the quality of life for Jewish seniors and older adults (ages 65+) from the greater Richmond community by reducing their social isolation. By offering opportunities for seniors to connect, engage and learn in a safe place, the program allows seniors to meet new people, experience new things and explore places. The program is offered free of charge and provides monthly programming that meets the social, mental, and physical needs of seniors.

It offers a unique opportunity for seniors of all cultural/ethnic backgrounds and faiths to convene in a central location where Jewish life, values and culture are shared and friendships are made. Weinstein JCC - Financial Assistance/ Scholarships Requested funds to support the Weinstein JCC financial assistance program for Jewish families for a variety of programs offered at the JCC, including preschool, Kid’s Place afterschool programs and camp. Without assistance, hundreds of our neighbors would not have access to our high-quality programs and services that provide social, recreational, educational and cultural opportunities, Our goal is to meet the needs of the growing number of people turning to us for financial assistance and it is our intention that no one be denied program access because of an inability to pay full fees.

The Reflector is published monthly by the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Copy must be received two-and-a-half weeks prior to the date of publication. The Reflector reserves the right to edit or refuse any copy or advertisement submitted. Views expressed by guest writers and reader’s letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Call for information about advertising in The Reflector at 545-8655. Acceptance of advertising does not endorse or guarantee Kashruth.

Ellen Renee Adams, President Daniel Staffenberg, Chief Executive Officer Raymond (Skip) Kozakewicz, Editor Sara Rosenbaum, Director of Impact and Community Planning Jesse Feld, Director of Development and Engagement David Cohen, Director, Jewish Community Relations

Jewish Community Federation OF RICHMOND

5403 Monument Avenue • Richmond, VA 23226

(804) 545-8620 Email: reflector@jewishrichmond.org

www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/Av 5780 | the Reflector | 23

www.JewishRichmond.org

July 2020 Tammuz/AV 5780 | the Reflector | 24