The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia honored the past, celebrated the present and embraced the future at the Legacy Society and Remembrance event on Wednesday, November 15, at Congregation Rodeph Shalom. The multigenerational event was chaired by Brett and Lisa Studner. 

"This annual event allows us to appreciate those whose acts of tzedakah will have a lasting impact for generations to come,” said Brett and Lisa Studner, event chairs. “It also underscores the importance of nurturing an endowment for the future, so that the Jewish Federation can continue to be there for those in need -- every day and in times of crisis."

Early in the evening, the remembrance portion of the program recognized the generous members of the community who passed away in 5783 and made a vital contribution to the Jewish Federation through their estate plans. Rabbi Jill L. Maderer also led a touching memorial service while family and friends remembered loved ones they had lost through touching tributes.

In addition, the program recognized those murdered in Israel as well as those who had left an endowment for crises in the Jewish homeland, which enabled the Jewish Federation to allocate $1.5 million immediately after the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas.

In the second portion of the evening, the Jewish Federation welcomed new Legacy Society members, whose generosity will help ensure a strong and thriving future by creating endowments. The keynote speaker for the evening was Executive Director of Judith Creed Horizons for Achieving Independence (JCHAI) Stacy Jarrett Levitan, Esq., who was joined by Emily, a JCHAI client. Concluding the night, guests were also treated to a musical performance by the Shabbatones. 

Brett and Lisa Studner, event chairs of the Legacy Society and Remembrance event, welcomed attendees to an evening of remembering those who passed away in 5783 and honoring those who have made an endowment gift to the Jewish Federation.

Keynote speaker and Executive Director of Judith Creed Horizons for Achieving Independence (JCHAI) Stacy Jarrett Levitan, Esq spoke about inclusivity in Jewish spaces.

Guests enjoyed a musical performance by the Shabbatones.

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