Building tomorrow's community today

From Shushan to Naples

Nammie Ichilov, Federation President & CEO

As I look forward to the upcoming and joyous holiday of Purim this month, I find myself reflecting on the timeless lessons embedded within the Megillah. The story of Purim isn't just about Esther and Mordechai's courage; it's about the power of individual action to transform an entire community's destiny.

There's an old Hasidic tale about a wealthy man who visited his rabbi complaining of emptiness despite his riches. The rabbi led him to a window and asked, “What do you see?” “People,” the man replied. The rabbi then led him to a mirror and asked the same question. “I see myself,” said the man. The rabbi nodded and said, “Behold, both the window and the mirror are made of glass, but the mirror is covered with a little silver, and no sooner is the silver added than you cease to see others and see only yourself.”

This parable resonates deeply with me as I witness the extraordinary work of our community volunteers. Like Esther, who could have remained silent in her comfortable position in the palace, our volunteers choose to step forward when needed. They are the ones who plan and lead our extensive array of social programs, who organize our cultural events, who volunteer endless hours to support our community agencies, and who engage with our donors and help secure our campaign gifts. They do this not for recognition or praise, but because they understand, as our sages teach us, “If I am only for myself, what am I?”

The Megillah tells us, “Relief and salvation will come to the Jews from another place” (Esther 4:14). This verse reminds us that help can come from unexpected sources, just as our community is strengthened by members from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Whether you're a year-rounder or a snowbird, your presence enriches our collective story.

I see our individual roles as similar to Mordechai’s — to gather, unite and strengthen our community. Just as Esther’s actions ensured the continuity of Jewish life in Persia, our investments in Jewish education, culture and social services ensure our community’s vibrant future.

This Purim, I invite you to consider your role in our community’s collective story. Each of us has the potential to be an Esther or a Mordechai — to step forward when needed, to support our collective welfare and to ensure that our Jewish community remains strong and vibrant for generations to come. Our strength lies not just in our ability to receive support when needed, but in our commitment to build something greater than ourselves.

May this Purim inspire us all to unmask our potential for community leadership and service. After all, the true miracle of Purim wasn't just survival; it was the realization that when we work together, we can transform any challenge into triumph.