As Veterans Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary lives of so many Village Shalom residents.
Some once served our country in uniform. Others built and sustained Kansas City’s civic and cultural institutions, or gave countless hours of service to neighbors and community. Some survived the Holocaust, then rebuilt lives of purpose and generosity. Each, in their own way, represents the very best of the “Greatest Generation.”
It has been one of the real joys of my life to serve this generation via work at Village Shalom, first as a board member and now professionally, leading development and community engagement. Every day I spend with residents of different backgrounds and faiths, I’m reminded of how much we can learn from their resilience, their gratitude for even the smallest kindness and their constant desire to give back.
Recently, I had the privilege of escorting resident Dr. Judy Jacobs, a Holocaust survivor, to speak at my son Elliot’s middle school. As Judy shared her story of loss and strength, she also challenged the students to get involved in their community. That message, delivered by someone who has already given so much, was unforgettable. And it’s a message Judy lives out daily through her ongoing support of Village Shalom.
Moments like that bring into sharp focus the importance of sustaining Village Shalom’s mission. That is exactly what philanthropy makes possible. Each year, the Ages of Excellence campaign helps cover the $2.1 million in financial assistance provided to healthcare residents who have outlived their resources. These gifts ensure that every Village Shalom resident continues to receive compassionate, dignified care.
This year, we also celebrate a milestone — the 25th anniversary of the Helzberg Campus for Jewish Living. Shirley and Barnett Helzberg’s generosity made this campus a reality, and their example continues to remind us what it means to give back. To honor them is to carry their legacy forward.
That’s why I’m inviting you to join me. Any increase in your gift this year to the Ages of Excellence campaign will be matched dollar for dollar by a generous donor, and any new gift from community members ages 30–50 will also be matched — doubling the impact. If you’re in that age group, I hope you’ll consider stepping forward. If not, I encourage you to invite your children, friends or colleagues to take part. Together, we can inspire the next generation to stand for the values and vibrant community the Greatest Generation has given us.
As we honor our veterans and the Helzbergs, I hope you’ll help us strengthen Village Shalom for years to come. To make your gift, visit villageshalom.org/donate or call (913) 266-8119. Your support will be part of an enduring legacy.
David Spizman is the director of philanthropy and community engagement at Village Shalom.