Being Jewish in Troubled Times

How We Take Care of Our People

Diane Schwartz, Co-President Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah

In Hadassah, we are proudly Jewish and respectful of the history of Jewish values and contributions to civilization told through the Old Testament and Hebrew, Aramaic, and Yiddish writings.

As a people, Hadassah members have come together to pursue goals to move our way of life forward. National Hadassah’s main areas of focus impact our everyday lives and the Collier/Lee Chapter is in the forefront of activity in our community.

We support our programs in Israel as an expression of our commitment to the country and services we bring to our people. The heart of the State of Israel is in Jerusalem, which is where our hospitals are located. Our U.S. programs advance a deeper understanding and connection to Israel — for adults and young Jewish children. Our advocacy supports Israel’s security and a strong relation between the U.S. and Israel to help our people live a safe and healthy life. Our hospitals and our youth programs Young Judea and Youth Aliyah, which are youth-at-risk teen residential villages in Israel, create a better future for the children involved.

Another focus for Hadassah’s work is global humanitarian work advancing health care and medicine, sharing and working with 50+ universities and research hospital partners around the world. Our hospitals treat one million patients who come from around the world and are treated regardless of race, religion, and nationality. Our hospitals send medical groups where needed around the world. National Hadassah built the Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO) that oversees those two hospitals — Mt. Scopus and Ein Karem and the Gandel Rehabilitation Center, all in Jerusalem. Collier/Lee Chapter is proud to have received an award for our 2024 Women’s Health Symposium addressing Gynecological health care for women. We have been invited to join a collaboration of local groups planning a Women’s Health Symposium in the Spring of 2026.

Collier/Lee has planned and hosted several educational programs dealing with antisemitism and how it impacts us personally. Our Chapter successfully led all the Florida Hadassah Chapters in the Petition drive to put the Reproductive Choice Amendment 4 on the ballet. Now we are looking at how we can be helpful on college campuses through educational sessions.

All in all, Hadassah and its 500 chapters across the country have never faltered. There are many ways to make a difference in the U.S. and around the globe to support the country for our people known as Israel.

You Are Invited

Watch your emails for additional information about the events below. For questions and further information, contact clhchapter@gmail.com. Please include the topic in the subject line.

Nov. 17 – Fall Luncheon Meeting: Featuring our Annual Artisan Vendor Showcase. We are highlighting the Showcase so you can start your Chanukah shopping now. Program: “Beauty & Bravery” featuring former Miss Israel and IDF Combat Medic Noa Kochva. The program is sponsored by Israel Bonds, featuring Double Mitzvah Bonds.

Dec. 14 – Donor Recognition Luncheon: We will welcome the National Hadassah President.

Jan. 8, 2026 – Installation of Officers: Our Guest Speaker is National Hadassah HMO Chair.

March 15, 2026 – Inspiring Women 2026