One way Jewish Federation helps care for people in need while investing in a strong Jewish future is through support of partners and programs geared to those goals. But not every need fits into neat boxes and, often, when people don't know where else to turn, Federation is their Jewish 411.

 

Federation recently got a call from 70-something widow, Elaine*, who didn't know where to turn for non-medical help while recovering from major surgery restricting her mobility. She was having groceries delivered but couldn't get them in the house, she couldn't get to the mailbox some 75 feet from her door, she wasn't sure even what to call this kind of help – let alone where to find it, so she called Federation.

 

We brainstormed with her and connected her to a resource within the Jewish community for temporary household help.

 

Then during our call, we heard, in the background, the dreaded beep signaling time to change smoke detector batteries. She said, "Oh there's that, too." That was the moment we made a bonus shiddach – a connection.

 

Federation routinely matches volunteers with unmet needs in the community, and recently launched a program through which our own employees also take time to volunteer. (See related story.)

 

Federation staff member, Dan, had an interest in helping people in situations like Elaine's and went over to help with her smoke detectors. While there, he noticed several high light bulbs were out. Elaine was in no condition to change them. 

 

Dan not only took care of it all, he and Elaine got to talking about Jewish life and community. Elaine said she'd like to begin volunteering again once she recuperates and then Dan learned that long ago, Elaine was a regular volunteer at Jewish Federation’s Super Sunday fundraising telethons. 

 

When Dan showed his surprise about Elaine's former connection to Federation, Elaine, in turn, was surprised. "I thought you came here to help because you knew I used to volunteer with Federation," she said. "That you showed up, not knowing who I was, just to help a random person... wow."

 

This is Federation impact – as much as any sizable grant for significant human services, education, or security programs. Federation values the needs and experience of one person at a time – as well as the community as a whole, showing every Jew they are not alone and being a resource when you don't know where to begin.

 

We are here for needs that could be described as large and small, but the connection – and the difference – we made for Elaine was no small feat in her eyes.  

 

If you would like to find volunteer opportunities in the Jewish community, click here.  

 

* Name changed for privacy