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Ariel Nelson

“I think it was eye opening to me when I learned about all the agencies and types of needs we support. The umbrella nature of Federation ensures that needs are met throughout the entire community...”

When did you get involved with Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ?

My wife and I began volunteering at Super Sunday when we moved into the community 20 years ago.

How are you involved?

From volunteering at Super Sunday, I became involved in YLD (now NextGen) and eventually became its campaign chair.  I was nominated for the Borinsky program and then joined the Federation board serving on various committees.  I later joined the Jewish Community Foundation board and became its Treasurer and member of the executive committee.  I also have served on the CRC (now JCRC) and participated in GMW’s Wexner 15 cohort (you can find more in this article from the Cohn award a few years back although some items have changed)

When you last (volunteered, made a donation, etc.), how did that make you feel? What inspires you to give?

Giving is about looking after one another.  Kol Yisrael Areivim Zeh LaZeh – “All Jews are responsible for one another” has been critical to Jewish survival over the millennia.  Whether it is for Jewish education,  children with disabilities, pandemic relief, or the war in Ukraine, there are Jews in need and we need to step up and help them.

What motivates you to stay involved?

Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest is about to have its centennial.  If we want to ensure the GMW community remains vibrant for the next 100 years, for our children and grandchildren, we have to be involved today and invest for the future.

What do you wish other people knew about Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ and the work we do together?

I think it was eye opening to me when I learned about all the agencies and types of needs we support.  The umbrella nature of Federation ensures that needs are met throughout the entire community, not only in the places you may be most aware of.  I trust that Federation has a better pulse on all the needs in the community better than I would myself.  It’s like investing in an ETF or a mutual fund.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about (donating, volunteering, etc.)?

DO IT!!!   It is charity, community, and social connectivity all rolled into one.  Also, consider opening a donor advised fund at JCF.  It is an easy, tax-advantaged way to make your giving go farther.