Kehilah, a Hebrew word meaning “community,” represents one of Rodeph Sholom School’s four core values and reflects our commitment to a sense of unity, respect, and collective responsibility. We are proud to highlight members of the Rodeph Sholom community, like parent of alumni Amy Yenkin P’13, ‘16, through our Kehilah Spotlight series.
Rodeph Sholom School holds a profound significance in my life—both in the past and presently—as a parent raising Jewish children and someone whose career has been dedicated to engaging in social issues.
My husband, Rob Usdan, and I knew Rodeph Sholom School was a special place as soon as our first child, Cole, entered the school for the Twos. When it came time to apply for our daughter Dora, there was only one choice. Their time at Rodeph Sholom School was marked by unforgettable milestone events, from Midrash Hour to the Civil Rights trip in the South and their culminating 8th Grade trips to Israel, and filled with countless moments of connection–all significant to their individual experiences. We have been proud to count on Rodeph Sholom as a true partner in Cole and Dora’s childhoods and watch them grow into the responsible, kind, and inquisitive Jewish adults they are today.
I was working in philanthropy, supporting documentary photographers doing human rights work, when our family first joined the Rodeph Sholom community and fully embraced the School’s mission rooted in strong Jewish values. I found ways to be part of what made the School community so special. As my professional networks and areas of expertise evolved, so did the kinds of roles I chose to take on. I co-chaired the Book Fair twice, one of my favorite annual events, and joined the Board of Directors, where I served for 6 years. Upon completing my Board service, I remained active on the Governance and DEISJ Committees.
Our youngest graduated from Rodeph 7 years ago. Yet Rodeph Sholom School, a place that our family has called home for over 20 years, remains a big part of our lives: As a college student, Dora worked at the summer camp while I continue to advise on school initiatives that align with my professional and personal values. Rob and I continue to support the School philanthropically because we believe it to be the best model for Reform Jewish education available–and I say this as a board member of the Jewish Education Project.
I cherish this institution because Rodeph Sholom School has meant the world to my family, and I feel a joyful responsibility to make certain that it thrives for the benefit of current and future families and continues to serve as an inspiration for other communities in the Jewish world.
I hope that your family will join mine in ensuring Rodeph Sholom School’s success for years to come. If my story reminds you of the incredible impact the School has had on your own family, please consider making a contribution.
Sincerely,
Amy Yenkin P’13, ’16
Since its inception in 1970, Rodeph Sholom School has been proud to have a strong culture of philanthropy. Our teachers and staff are invaluable in guiding our students through their early lives and adolescence, and our families and friends offer tremendous support, year after year, to make that work possible and to help our programs thrive. Learn more here.