Laughter, camaraderie, and the unmistakable spirit of Tidewater’s Jewish community filled the Sandler Family Campus’ Fleder Multipurpose Room on the evening of May 15. The occasion was the Simon Family Legacy Society’s celebration event dedicated to honoring those who have made lasting contributions to the Jewish future through their generosity and commitment.
Hosted by Tidewater Jewish Foundation, the event brought together a cross-section of the Tidewater Jewish community. The celebration started with a lively cocktail hour and mix-and-mingle session, setting the tone for an evening filled with meaningful connections and joyful reunions. Kim Simon Fink warmly welcomed the guests, underscoring her family’s longstanding commitment to philanthropy and community building.
The program featured a presentation of the new Life & Legacy inspirational video and the future of the Life & Legacy program across the community. TJF was recently awarded a grant by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, a significant milestone that paves the way for participation in the newly invigorated Life & Legacy Plus Program. Launching this fall, the program promises to strengthen current legacy building endeavors and provide enhanced resources and support for participating individuals, organizations, and agencies. The Life & Legacy Plus initiative will mark a new era of community growth and development.
Charlie Nusbaum, TJF’s board chairman, introduced the evening’s keynote speaker, Joel Chasnoff. An acclaimed author and stand-up comedian, Chasnoff brought the house down with his unique brand of relevant, uplifting Jewish comedy. His performance entertained as well as reinforced the evening’s themes of legacy, community, and Jewish continuity.
In her closing remarks, Naomi Limor Sedek, TJF’s CEO, reflected on the event’s significance. “As we gather to celebrate and honor the timeless tradition of legacy giving, we are reminded of the power of our community and the importance of preserving our rich heritage for future generations. Together, we can secure a future filled with hope, compassion, and endless possibilities.
