The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our world in multiple ways. One major change has been in the way people work. Email and phone calls now replace casual chats with co-workers. Zoom meetings have become a staple in our workdays.
When our Innovation Grants program was launched almost 10 years ago, the idea was to support unique, one-of-a-kind, and collaborative programs in our Dayton Jewish community. Over the years, we have seen many initiatives take shape; however, one in particular has grown from an idea to an integral part of Jewish Dayton.
Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. While many countries have their own Holocaust Remembrance Day, January 27th is a day for the entire world to take pause and honor the memories of those who perished, learn from those who have shared their stories of survival, and reflect on how we can ensure such an atrocity never happens again.
As a leader, I am constantly asking myself in any difficult situation, “What is the right thing to do?” When considering the painful events from yesterday I feel we must act with the Jewish community in mind, using Tikkun Olam as our guiding star.
Recently I was talking to a community member, and the topic turned to our programming throughout the pandemic. They raved about what we have provided virtually, and how it has kept the community together during this crazy year. One comment this person made, though, really meant a lot. They said, “You couldn’t have done a better job.”
This time of year, we usually gather with family and friends to celebrate the wonder and warmth of Chanukah. Like everything else in 2020, Chanukah looks a little different.