Learning from the past, living in the present and building the future

Diane Schwartz, Presidents Council for Collier/Lee Chapter

How do you want to be remembered by family, friends and the community at large? Do you want to be remembered?

Our lives are so busy. If you are Jewish in Collier and Lee Counties, there is a vibrant community of “us.” There are so many opportunities to socialize, to be entertained, to learn, to be together and to live our values of Tzedakah and Tikum Olam. We can do all of the above and do so much good by helping others in need here in our community and in our beloved Israel.

Personally, I prefer to spend my time, effort and resources to help others in our community and abroad. I am so committed to this that while I was “living in the present” — based on what Hadassah, my Temple and rabbis here and in New Jersey have taught me about the past — I found myself ready to think about the future.

I decided that when something means a lot to me, if whatever I do brings fulfillment in living my Jewish values for the greater good, I can carry that forward. How can we teach our children and grandchildren, whether small or adult, that they can make a difference with their time, their life and by sharing their resources?

Many people love Hadassah and consider it a significant part of their lives and their families' lives. There are so many Life Members that are generational Life Members. Hadassah Associates, men who are affiliated for life, support us as well.

There are life-long friendships that grow from Hadassah experiences. I call them “50-to-60-year friendships,” and we still stay in touch. We are Hadassah Sisters moving forward in a new time frame, with pride in our world-class hospitals, globally recognized for their medical research and care. The new Gandel Rehabilitation Centre is open in Jerusalem and already helping so many wounded since the Oct. 7 attack. Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO) provides PTSD treatment and support to a traumatized nation.

Hadassah International has groups around the world. In the United States, Hadassah’s 700 chapters are in every congressional district. We educate members to fight against antisemitism, to advocate for women’s health and so much more. With 300,000 women and Hadassah Associates, Hadassah is the largest women’s volunteer organization in the United States.

I invite you to join me and think about creating a Legacy Gift to Hadassah’s Legacy Society in your will or your estate planning, after you take care of your loved ones.

If you value your time, friendships and the gifts you have given to Hadassah, you can create your own legacy. I firmly believe that one person can make a difference: in 1912, our founder Henrietta Szold certainly did. Now, it’s our turn.

If you would like information about the Hadassah Legacy Society, email Collierleehadassah@gmail.com and enter “Legacy Society” in the subject line.

You are invited to upcoming events

Installation of Officers, Luncheon and Fashionista Fashion Show featuring Petunias of Naples, Fifth Avenue. Catering by Prestige Catering.

Located in Schiff Hall of Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Feb. 2, 2025

Inspiring Woman 2025 Luncheon Honoring Outstanding Women Susan Bookbinder - Philanthropist, Community Leader; Paula Brody – Distinguished Artist, Community Leader; Elizabeth Dosoretz – Business Leader, Advocate.

Located at the Audubon Country Club.

March 24, 2025

“That’s Entertainment” Spring Luncheon Catering by Prestige Catering

Located in Schiff Hall of Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

From all of us in Collier/Lee Hadassah, we wish you a Happy, Healthy New Year.