THE VOICE OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF EDMONTON
HAK
L Check out the new program for babies and parents Page 8
HAKOL | VOLUME 8, #3 NOVEMBER 2021
EDMONTON From the desk of our president Page 2 Meet Federation staff Page 4 -5 Donations to foundation leave legacy Page 7 Hillel plans year of events Page 10 Eight ways to light up your Chanukah Page 12
UJA campaign funds impacts from cradle to grave When Darryl Antel and Howie Sniderman think of the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) campaign, community comes to mind. “From my point of view, the impact of the UJA campaign is from cradle to grave. We raise funds and distribute them around the community locally, nationally, and in Israel. I see the impact at the start of life in our community, through programs such as Shalom Baby. As we grow through the years, the number of programs and organizations that are supported by UJA also add to the lifeblood, vitality and the strength of our community,” says Howie, the campaign co-chair. “A reason I got involved with the campaign is, not only is it an aspect of what it means to be part of the community, but it makes you feel even more connected to the community,” adds Darryl, who is co-chairing the campaign with Howie. Darryl moved to Edmonton eight years ago and knew very few people. He connected with the Jewish community through the young professionals’ program that the Federation offered. Darryl saw how UJA funds can make an impact through this program by helping others connect. For Howie, funds from past UJA campaigns have
affected him in different ways, but what stands out are his experiences at Camp BB Riback. “The studies that we’ve all seen over the years tell us a Jewish summer camp experience is an important component of an identification with the Jewish community for the rest of your life. In many cases, mine included. It’s where you meet your spouse,” says Howie. “When I look at the impact, it extends for generations— from my in-laws, who were very involved with Jewish summer camps, to my wife Debbie and I, and our own children. And soon enough our grandchildren will attend the camp as well.” Howie became involved with the UJA campaign in the 1980s after he graduated from university. He grew up understanding how important supporting the Jewish community was from an individual perspective and an organizational point of view. “I understood from an early age that we had to give tzedakah. We had to help one another. That’s how we build a powerful community,” he adds. At this stage of his life, Howie thinks of the future and how the UJA campaign is a critical part of creating a future for Jewish Edmonton. ...continued on page 3
