Jewish Influencers Judith and Stephen Silverman Stephen and Judy Silverman have been Jewish influencers in Jacksonville for many years. Stephen is a past president of both the Jewish Federation and the Foundation. The Silvermans have supported all of our local Jewish agencies as well as Jewish Family & Community Services, steadfastly assisting each of them in growth and success.
By Donna O'Steen, Jewish Family & Community Services
Recently, we had the opportunity to meet with Stephen to inquire about the importance of giving back to and strengthening our community. The Silverman's have been involved with JFCS since 1986 in several capacities, most notably their commitment to our Holocaust survivor poverty program. In 2016, Stephen and Judy attended an event and heard JFCS Executive Director, Colleen Rodriguez speak about our local Holocaust survivors. In the speech, she explained the unique day-to-day struggles they face.
Stephen and Judy, who have ties to a Holocaust survivor through their daughter-in-law, were surprised to learn that over 50% of survivors in Northeast Florida were living at or below the poverty level. Stephen said, "I didn't realize that providing for local survivors was an issue and I felt like it shouldn't be an issue. With all the money raised within our community, we need to take care of this vulnerable population. These people lost their childhood and
innocence. They shouldn't have to suffer a second time or at all. In my opinion, they should not have to live hand to mouth." So, Stephen decided to do something about it by getting the word out to our community and creating the Holocaust Survivor Poverty fund. Initially, nine other friends agreed to be the initial financial supporters and without them, this fund wouldn't have been so successful.
When asked why giving back and taking care of all aspects of our Jewish community was so important, Stephen explained, "If we don't do something to help those who are less fortunate, then how can our community become stronger? How will our children and grandchildren know the importance of the Jewish value system and what it really means to be Jewish? I give back because I grew up with a family who gave back. It truly is Tikkun Olam. Giving back helps to repair the world and we have to educate the next generation to do the same. We lead by example. I believe it is another way of saying 'thank you' to those who helped me along the way. Each
of us is responsible for the other.
"Look, I don't have a crystal ball that can see our future through, but if I had to answer a question about my vision for our Jewish future, I would say that it is my hope that our children/grandchildren will continue what we have started-doing things for the right reasons and taking care of each other," Stephen continued. "I wish the world would be a safer place for all people, regardless of race and religion, where our future generations didn't have to worry about anti-Semitism, hate, synagogue bombings, mass shootings, or war. It starts with education. Judaism teaches that we support each other and our community. It's how things should be done." Executive Director, Colleen Rodriguez added, "JFCS is gifted with the privilege of supporting Northeast Florida Holocaust Survivors. We learned a long time ago that as they age, they have unique needs due to the traumatic experiences they experienced as children/young adults. The support and advocacy that the Silverman's provide enables JFCS to expand the services and supports required to this special group of people. Stephen and Judy understand the importance of supporting the most vulnerable in our community and they do it willingly and with open hearts. We couldn't do what we do every day to enhance the lives of our survivors without them."
