Ariela and Gary Mars

Presented by The Foundation of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation

A Legacy of Love, Leadership and Lifelong Giving Ariela and Gary are remarkable leaders whose devotion to Jewish life and generosity has left a lasting imprint on Jewish Miami. Their journey reflects not only giving but also deeply held values, shared purpose and an unwavering sense of responsibility. What began as a high school

romance at Scheck Hillel Community Day School in North Miami Beach, evolved into a lifelong partnership—one that has now spanned 33 years of marriage. Together, they have built a beautiful family, raising three children and recently welcoming their first granddaughter, with more joyful milestones ahead. Ariela’s family immigrated to Miami from Peru in 1974, and she was raised in a traditional Jewish home. She recalls meaningful Shabbat dinners, strong participation in Jewish day schools, camps and experiences in Israel, all of which shaped

her identity. Central to her upbringing was the influence of her father, Alex Halberstein, z”l , a highly respected philanthropist in South Florida known for his extraordinary leadership and unwavering dedication to Federation and countless other Jewish organizations. His belief in “paying it forward” left a lasting imprint on Ariela’s values and worldview. Gary’s upbringing in North Miami Beach was similarly rooted in Jewish practice and generosity. Raised in a kosher home where giving back was simply part of life, he, too, was surrounded by parents who were not only pioneers of the northeast Miami- Dade Jewish community, but role models who demonstrated that supporting the Jewish world is a fundamental obligation. As they both reflect, “It’s just what was done in our families.” That shared outlook has guided their life together. Ariela and Gary have contributed not only as donors but as active participants, lending their time, insight and passion to strengthen Jewish life locally and abroad. Their involvement includes leadership roles for AIPAC, Israel Bonds, Scheck Hillel Community Day School, Kesher, Beth Torah Benny Rok Campus and Boys Town Jerusalem, as well as significant roles within the Greater Miami Jewish Federation. At Federation, Gary has served as a member of the Board of Directors and Executive Board of Federation, Chair of the North Dade Division, and Young Leadership Division, and played a key role in the Attorneys Division. Together, they have attended countless events, chaired committees and chaired and participated in Super Sunday campaigns. Their chairing and participation in the 1994 Mega Mission as a young couple was an early expression of their belief in communal responsibility.

Their decision to endow their Annual Campaign gift to Federation reflects both conviction and vision. They see Federation as central to sustaining Jewish life in Miami and beyond and they understand that The Foundation is crucial to that sustainment. As Gary puts it, “How can you live here and not be a part of the Federation? Its work affects everyone in the Jewish community.” For them, an endowment with The Foundation is not only a financial act but a statement of values and an invitation for others to join in strengthening the future. Equally meaningful is the legacy they are nurturing within their own family. Ariela and Gary have instilled in their children the same principles of generosity, accountability and connection to Jewish life. Their children are already engaged in the community, continuing a tradition that encompasses not only philanthropy but also time, involvement and heartfelt commitment. As Gary reflects, “This community is

extremely dynamic. Miami is very special, and it takes a lot to support it. We are happy to do our part.” And indeed, they have done their part, and so much more. Ariela and Gary are an inspiration, embodying the spirit of what it means to be Forever Pacesetters .

Temple Beth Am AND Rambam Day School

Presented by The Foundation of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation

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