Community gathers to Celebrate UJA’s Women’s Philanthropy

Each year our community comes together to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of two very special women; women committed to the future of Jewish life in Toronto, Israel and across the Jewish world.

This year, May 27th was no exception as Alison Himel, the outgoing Chair of UJA’s Women’s Philanthropy, and Ruth Ekstein, the Chair of this year’s Women’s Philanthropy, were feted at the Lipa Green Centre with an evening that celebrated the year that was, while looking ahead to the goals and dreams held for this year. 

Besides Himel and Ekstein, the entire outgoing executive and the incoming executive were honoured, while shining a spotlight on the impressive wealth of talent in our community. 

Himel gave the women in attendance an overview of the impressive accomplishments and events of her campaign year while Ekstein shared her personal story - beginning with her Holocaust survivor parents’ miraculous survival, to the Jewish values they instilled in their family. 

Ekstein spoke passionately about how her commitment to the Jewish world drives her and how that is the impetus for everything she does. To read Ruth’s speech, click here.

Wendy Eisen, a hero of the Soviet Jewry movement, was the evening’s keynote speaker and did not disappoint, delivering a heartfelt presentation on the history of the cause leading to the immense impact many of the “refusniks” have had in the Jewish world. Wendy received a sanding ovation both for the wonderful presentation and for her role in the movement. To read Wendy’s speech please click here.

 

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