In 1995, I went back to Cuba with Michael on the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee’s (JDC) first mission to Cuba. I was heartbroken to see the how much my synagogue had deteriorated. Through the JDC, we made a gift in memory of my parents, to help repair it. I am living proof that the work we do through the Federation helps build a strong Jewish future. If it weren’t for HIAS, and the Federation, my life could have turned out very differently. It gives me great pleasure to be able to give back through my time and resources, and leave a lasting legacy to the Federation, Scheck Hillel, Beth Torah, and Michael-Ann Russell JCC. I remember how proud I was to make my first Lion of Judah gift. I also remember the emotion I felt on a Prime Minister’s Council mission to Israel. Here I was, a Jewish Cuban refugee, sitting amongst the most powerful Jewish leaders in the country, having dinner with Yitzchak Rabin in the Knesset. I knew my parents would be so proud of me as I continued their legacy. I am equally proud of my children and grandchildren as they continue to expand that legacy. From generation to generation…
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