Marla Dan Agent of Change 2009-2014
Marla Dan has been an active member in the CHW community for 28 years. She was raised in a strong Zionist home, learning at a young age the importance of community involvement. Her mother was a vibrant member in the CHW Edmonton Centre, while her father was President of their synagogue. It is no surprise that the three principles guiding her through life are Zionism, volunteerism, and mentorship. When Marla was 16, she took her first trip to Israel, which cemented the connection between her upbringing and the land of Israel. When she moved to Toronto in her early 20s, it seemed only natural for her to join a local CHW Chapter; to make friends, and to further her desire to give back to the community. As a member and the President of Tamid Chapter, and later as President of CHW Toronto Centre, Marla spent a great deal of time with strong women who not only provided her with the mentorship she needed, but helped her find the path to her own leadership. Marla’s involvement at CHW has only grown over the years, and she has held almost every position available. After her time as President of CHW Toronto Centre, Marla became the 21st National President. She accepted the role in 2009, after the sudden and tragic loss of Terry Schwarzfeld.
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She took on Terry’s three-year plan, working hard to ensure Terry’s CHW legacy continued. She was officially voted in as National President in 2012. During her presidency, several important events occurred: there was a revision of the constitution; including a modernization of CHW’s governance structure, the Legacy Circle was introduced, the Fertility Clinic at Hadassah Hospital was completed, and much needed funding was provided for Assaf Harofeh Medical Center. Also during Marla’s term, two very important partnerships were made with Assaf Harofeh Medical Center’s M. Fanny Comprehensive Breast Care Institute and the Neuroradiology Institute, which is now named the CHW Marla Dan Stroke and Invasive Neuroradiology Institute. Marla’s support has enabled the establishment of the Dan Auditorium at Nahalal Youth Village, and the Patisserie Program at the CHW Netanya Technological High School. She is also currently Co-Chairing the “Celecation” Trip to Israel with her husband Aubrey for CHW’s Centennial Birthday. Marla’s outstanding philanthropy, focused on helping women, children, and families, as well as her leadership and volunteerism, has a far-reaching impact on the lives of everyone involved in CHW projects.