12/13/2024
Inspire Family Giving Through Jewish Holidays,Traditions
Fredman
Mindee Fredman | SPECIAL TO THE CJN
Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News
Holidays are often a time of reflecting, sharing gratitude, making memories and coming together as a family. The spirit of giving that is central to the holidays can inspire conversations about tzedakah (charity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness). These meaningful conversations can create a space where charitable intentions can be nurtured, celebrated and transmitted to the next generation. Have you considered using this special time as an opportunity to engage in conversations about Jewish values and philanthropy?
Discussing multi-generational family philanthropy can instill a sense of collective purpose, deepen understanding and lead to greater respect among family members. As you approach the upcoming holidays together, here are some ideas to get these conversations started:
Introduce Family Philanthropy Early
Start early. Begin discussions of tzedakah and giving when children are young. Consider setting up a family tzedakah box where everyone contributes to the giving and the recipient.
Model Generosity and Tzedakah
Be a role model and example by involving the younger generation in your own charitable acts – whether that is volunteering, engaging in a hands-on activity, donating, or planning and attending nonprofit events.
Facilitate Family Discussions around Philanthropy
Share family history, anecdotes, and values so younger generations can learn about where they come from, stories, values and strengths they have inherited, and what the family legacy means to them.
Ask questions to inspire conversation, and make sure everyone is heard. Ask open ended questions like: What values drive your giving? What are the most important challenges in the Jewish community? Who are your role models for giving tzedekah? How would you describe our family’s traditions around giving?
Create a Giving Tradition with Personal Impact
Use the holidays as an opportunity to reinforce family philanthropic values and create new traditions, such as volunteering together as a family or making a collective donation in lieu of gifts one night.
During these times, when families gather and celebrate shared traditions, it can be powerful to reflect on how the teachings of the season – such as light overcoming darkness during Chanukah – relate to the ways you can contribute to the world around you. Discussing family philanthropy and Jewish values during the holidays can be a meaningful way to bring your family together to honor your traditions and create new ones.
Wishing you and your loved ones beautiful holidays filled with light, love, meaning and purpose.
Mindee Fredman is vice president, supporting foundations at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in Beachwood and a 21/64 Certified Advisor in family philanthropy.
