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Foundation for the Charlotte Jewish Community Hosts "Three Rabbis"
December 2023
More than 100 community legacy donors gathered Nov. 2 for an exclusive event featuring discussions with Rabbi Yossi Groner of Congregation Ohr HaTorah, Rabbi Asher Knight of Temple Beth El, and Rabbi Michael Wolk of Temple Israel. Phil Warshauer, executive director of the Foundation for the Charlotte Jewish Community (FCJC) and the evening’s facilitator, described the trio as the “spiritual heart and soul of our community.” The rabbis shared insights into their family histories, their paths to Charlotte, and what inspired them to become spiritual leaders.
Though the event had been planned well in advance of the Oct. 7 incidents, the war in Israel and a rise in antisemitic demonstrations weighed heavily on attendees’ minds. Ira Slomka, FCJC board chair, opened the event by expressing a desire to “disconnect from world events for the next hour, to keep things light and enjoyable, and to possibly offer some levity during a particularly stressful time.”
The FCJC, committed to fostering community and honoring members of the community’s Book of Life Society, hosted the “Three Rabbis” event. The organization plans to continue such programs for Book of Life Society legacy donors.
Established in 2007, the Book of Life Society recognizes individuals and families who have pledged legacy gifts to local Jewish organizations. Currently, over 400 families have contributed 970 legacy gifts, totaling an estimated $44 million for the future of Jewish organizations in Charlotte.
For more details on the Book of Life Society and legacy donations, contact Abby Kleber at the FCJC at 704-973-4554 or akleber@charlottejewishfoundation.org. Interested individuals are also encouraged to contact local Jewish organizations to explore creating a personal Jewish legacy.
