When I began my journey with the Tidewater Jewish Foundation in July 2020, I walked into a world unlike anything we had known. It was the height of the pandemic.
Introductions were made over Zoom and relationship-building required more persistence, patience, and heart than ever before. In a time when it was difficult to be together physically, our community found ways to remain spiritually and philanthropically connected. That resilience became my first glimpse of what makes this Jewish community so extraordinary.
With the unwavering support of the TJF board, partners, and professional team, and anchored by a clear strategic plan, we began to build. Year by year, step by step, we expanded grantmaking opportunities, introduced new programs, and created innovative ways for people to give with meaning. Our fund balance remained strong, even as the markets fluctuated.
And then came October 7, 2023.
When crisis struck Israel, this community mobilized like I have never seen before. Within hours, TJF was not just ready; we were built for this. Our systems, our people, and our mission aligned in real time to support the homeland and provide security, dignity, and care for our people in need. It wasn’t just about responsiveness. It was about readiness. And that readiness came from years of legacy-building, fueled by values that have guided the Jewish people for centuries. Looking back, I am in awe, not of what I’ve done, but of what we’ve done together.
Over these five years, I’ve had the privilege to witness something remarkable: the philanthropic journey in action. From a baby naming to a bar or bat mitzvah, through weddings, business transitions, and memorials, we’ve walked alongside families at every milestone. I’ve seen parents, children, and even grandchildren work together across generations to create legacies that reflect their shared values and vision for the Jewish future. These are not just transactions. They are moments of intention, of memory, of purpose. We have worked hard to meet our donors on their timeline, with no pressure. Just open doors, open hearts, and honest conversation.
As we look ahead to the years to come, our focus remains clear: to build and deploy exponentially greater resources that empower Jewish life in Tidewater and beyond.
At TJF, we believe that legacy belongs to everyone, and that meaningful conversations are where it begins. We’re here to help individuals and families align their values with the evolving needs of our community, whether that means supporting security, Jewish education, advocacy, connection to Israel, or innovative Jewish experiences. Legacy isn’t only about endowments. It’s about the choices we make today to create a stronger, safer, more vibrant tomorrow.
If you’re curious about what your own legacy might look like, let’s talk. The first step is simply starting the conversation.
Naomi Limor Sedek is president & CEO, Tidewater Jewish Foundation.