“What are your thoughts, wishes and aspirations for the future of the Jewish community of Toronto?”
Elianne Koschitzky: As a newcomer to Toronto, there is one word to describe my impression of this city’s Jewish community: Inspiring. While the definition of “inspiring” is rooted in a sense of divinity, I think that in the case of the Toronto Jewish community, this word truly reflects the humanity of those who comprise it. It is a community that feels personally responsible for the well being of others. It is a community about giving; not just through financial means, but of their time and energy. It is a community about engaging people to get to the root of issues. In short, it is a community who punches well above its weight.
"Inspiring: this word truly reflects the humanity of those who comprise it. It is a community that feels personally responsible for the well being of others."
With that said, my aspiration for the future of the Jewish community here in Toronto is for it to continue to inspire its members. To achieve this penultimate, UJA must appeal to all facets of the community and continue to stay relevant. Staying relevant amidst a wide-ranging and ever-evolving group means that all who encompass it are linked by a core cause. It is my wish that this binding cause is the State of Israel. With Israel inextricably intertwined with one’s Jewish identity, the next generation will be able to work towards common goals and can find both their communal and personal ideals within Israeli society. Israel does not have to mean the same thing to everybody, but it should mean something to everybody.
UJA Federation of Greater Toronto is currently undergoing a strategic planning process. By taking a few minutes of your time you will have the opportunity to express your opinion about where you think UJA’s funding priorities should lie and what the core issues are that we need to be focusing upon over the coming years. Most importantly you will be participating in a community wide effort to work together to take responsibility for shaping our collective future. Visit the survey page.
Elianne Koschitzky
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