This week's Torah portion, Chayei Sarah ("The Life of Sarah") opens with a profound irony: it begins by announcing Sarah's death. Yet the portion's name reminds us that legacy isn't measured in years lived, but in the life we create for those who follow.
Sarah and Abraham each left distinct legacies. Abraham established a covenant and a vision. Sarah ensured its continuation through Isaac, nurturing the next generation who would carry Jewish values forward. Their legacies were different, complementary, and equally essential. They understood that meaningful impact extends far beyond a single lifetime.
This week, our Jewish community witnessed this ancient wisdom come alive in contemporary form. Our Jewish community campus namesake, Stephen Saks, was honored as the inaugural recipient of the Ner Tamid Award from the TOP Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies, a fitting recognition for someone who has illuminated a path forward for generations yet unborn.
Stephen's $10 million endowment for our community campaign will generate more than $500,000 annually, in perpetuity, addressing food insecurity for older adults, connecting isolated Jews with community, strengthening interfaith relationships, and engaging young adults, to name just a few of the local programs and initiatives his investment will impact for years to come. His additional $1 million PJ Library endowment ensures that every Jewish child in our area will grow up with Jewish stories, spark Shabbat dinners, and family connections to tradition. Like the Ner Tamid (the eternal light) that burns continuously in every synagogue, Stephen's vision will shine for generations of Jews who benefit from the resources supporting local Jewish life.
The Jewish Federation exists precisely for this purpose: to help donors transform their values into lasting impact. Through programs like PACE (Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment) and LOJE (Lion of Judah Endowment), annual gifts become permanent investments. LOJE particularly amplifies women's philanthropic voices, ensuring that women's commitments of $5,000 or more continue forever, creating a legacy in their own name, on their own terms.
These aren't simply financial mechanisms; they're expressions of faith in Jewish continuity. They answer the question Sarah and Abraham faced: How do we ensure the vibrant, nurturing community we've built will flourish long after we're gone?
As we read about Sarah's life this Shabbat, consider: What legacy will you leave? The Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is ready to help you answer that question and realize your vision for our community's future.
How can we help you create your legacy? …because we are Stronger Together!
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