Volunteers of the Year 2024
Their stories are inspirational
Adat Shalom Synagogue
Adat Shalom is proud to honor Marc and Marjorie Schermer as our Volunteers of the Year. Founding members of Adat Shalom, Marc and Marjie are passionately engaged in many aspects of Adat Shalom life including the ritual, facility, and mitzvah committees. These devoted Shabbat attendees often lead services together on Friday nights and Marc leads Sunday minyans. During the High Holidays, Marc blows the shofar beautifully while Marjie helps assign all aliyot and service parts. With the mitzvah committee, Marjie prepares comfort meals and bakes hamantaschen. Previously Adat Shalom representatives to our local interfaith initiative, Roots of Faith, Sharpsburg, Marjie is now chair of the board of that organization. Adat Shalom is blessed with this dedicated volunteer couple!
Beth El Congregation of the
South Hills
Diane Yarnot works quietly behind the scenes at Beth El Congregation in meaningful ways. With a caring voice, she reaches out to members in need through the acts of the loving kindness committee. She polishes silver before the High Holidays and also keeps the jewelry in Sisterhood’s Judaica Shop sparkling. Diane ensures that we have a minyan every evening and leads the Prayer for the State of Israel in Hebrew. She also provides tech support for A Space for Hope & Healing on Zoom with Rabbi Amy. Beth El is strengthened by the gift of Diane’s time and talent that she willingly shares.
Beth Hamedrash Hagodol-
Beth Jacob Congregation
Richard Apter credits his Jewish identity, importance of community-building and sense of tzedekah to his mother, Arlene Apter. She championed Jewish learning and ritual practice throughout his childhood and bar mitzvah at Beth Shalom. This anchored his Jewish identity, which has continued throughout his lifetime. Richard is a longtime member who has volunteered for many activities for the shul over the years. His membership and volunteering are in honor of his uncle Manny Glantz, who introduced him to the shul. Currently, Richard serves on the board and actively volunteers in the kitchen and helps with the breakfasts every Sunday. We are proud to submit him for Volunteer of the Year.
Beth Samuel Jewish Center
Susie Hill is Beth Samuel Jewish Center’s Volunteer of the Year. Every Sunday morning for the past 40 years, the most important people at Beth Samuel Jewish Center — our children,
generation after generation — have been made to feel that our synagogue is a place where they belong. Every one of them knows that Susie will always light up to see them coming through the door and welcome them back with a big hug. Our goal is to build a Jewish space where our community holds one another so secure and so precious that we never forget how it felt. Susie embodies that, and we celebrate her service!
The Branch (JRS)
The Branch proudly recognizes Cindy Berg Vayonis, a dedicated advocate for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Cindy helped found and continues to co-chair the Family Forum, a joint program of The Branch, The Friendship Circle and the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh. She works to educate families of adult children with disabilities, providing resources for long-term planning, housing and meaningful daily activities. Cindy’s dedication stems from her experience as caregiver to her daughter, Lexi. A board member of The Branch, Cindy is committed to helping parents navigate the complexities of caring for an adult child with disabilities while building a supportive community for those facing similar challenges.
Chabad of Monroeville
Robin Sloan’s volunteer work at Chabad is infused with passion, creativity and commitment to every project she undertakes, consistently going above and beyond to make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s event organizing, assisting with programs, or behind-the-scenes support, her efforts have assisted Chabad and the community in so many ways. On behalf of Chabad of Monroeville we thank you for being a beacon of light and kindness. We are truly grateful and are fortunate to
have someone of Robin’s caliber in our community.
Chabad on Campus – Pitt
As a director of the executive board, Steve Mitnick has been instrumental in helping Chabad on Campus–Pitt deal with a fast-growing budget and increased physical demands on a daily basis. He was also involved with the acquisition of a new building in the heart of Oakland for Jewish
students at the University of Pittsburgh and surrounding campuses. Steve is always ready and his “can-do“ attitude accomplishes the impossible. Chabad on Campus–Pitt is extremely grateful for Steve’s friendship and dedication to Jewish life on campus.
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Chabad of the South Hills
Andrew Neft has been a cornerstone of Chabad of the South Hills for over 20 years, driven by his deep passion for Judaism. He is the inspiration behind our weekly BLT (bagels, lox and tefillin), which he faithfully helps prepare each week. Andrew also plays a key role in our men’s club and actively supports Chabad’s many initiatives. We are proud to choose Andrew as our Volunteer of the Year.
Chabad of Squirrel Hill
Don Linzer is our Volunteer of the Year. Chabad of Squirrel Hill is in
the final stages of our renovations and capital campaign.Using his years of experience in business
and community leadership, Don has been a vital source of advice and leadership, both in the campaign and renovations.
Chabad Young Professionals
Danielle Feldman, Chabad Young Professionals’ Volunteer of the Year, has been a cornerstone of the community. She has contributed her creativity to programming and has been instrumental in fostering Jewish identity and connection. Danielle initiated and has led the monthly New Moon Circle for over a year, sharing wisdom and inspiration that highlight Jewish femininity. Her dedication continues to inspire and strengthen our vibrant community.
Classrooms Without Borders
Barbara Krause is Classrooms Without Borders’ Volunteer of the Year because of her unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions. She brings her sharp intellect to every project, including multiple thorough reviews of our annual impact report. Barbara’s generosity shines as she graciously hosts events in her home, creating a welcoming atmosphere for our community. Her wise counsel is always available, offering thoughtful guidance whenever needed. “Barbara is a true friend to Classrooms,” commented Dr. Zipora Gur, the organization’s founder. “We are able to do the work of opening minds and hearts because of her expertise and thoughtfulness.” Thank you, Barbara, and mazel tov!
Community Day School
Ruth and Scott Apter’s passion and tireless efforts have shown through their nine years as chairs of the CDS Grandparents Association. Their leadership in fostering engagement and supporting CDS’ mission is unparalleled and has profoundly enriched our community. By creating a legacy of connection, generosity and active involvement, they have set an inspiring example for future generations. Ruth and Scott’s contributions will have a lasting impact on our community’s spirit and growth.
Congregation Bet Tikvah
Elaine Rybski, Congregation Bet Tikvah’s treasurer and membership coordinator, is our administrative backbone. For the past two years, Congregation Bet Tikvah has been in a period of transition. During this time, Elaine has attended every single meeting and event we have put on. We could not have done it without her help. She consistently has good ideas and encourages the other core group of volunteers to work for what’s best for our congregation. We are incredibly grateful for all the time and energy she dedicates to our community.
Congregation Beth Shalom
Debby Firestone and her husband, Nate, have been members of Beth Shalom for 50 years. They celebrated many lifecycle events at the shul while raising their three children. At Beth Shalom, Debby participated in the youth commission, Purim carnival, holiday packages for college students, challah, soup and hamantaschen fundraising, volunteer brunch and Book of Remembrance. She served on the gardening and nominating committees, and as Sisterhood president. After several years on the executive committee, Debby served as Beth Shalom’s president for four years, which coincided with the Oct. 27, 2018, Pittsburgh synagogue shooting as well as the pandemic. She currently serves on the development committee as she maintains a strong commitment to the strength of
the shul. Beth Shalom’s community is grateful for Debby’s tireless efforts and congratulates her for being our Volunteer of the Year.
Dor Hadash
Longtime volunteer Beth Silver exemplifies the values of Dor Hadash, Pittsburgh’s Reconstructionist Congregation. Beth is co-chair of our Inclusion Committee, which ensures that we are welcoming and accessible to people of diverse ages and sexual, gender or racial identities, who are disabled, or of interfaith families. She is also an integral member of our ritual and membership committees. Beth coordinates ushers for services and volunteers at Torah study and the High Holidays. She offers support to the refugee resettlement committee which sponsors a refugee family each year, and to the Dor Hadash religious school. Beth embodies the notion of tikkun olam and Dor Hadash is delighted to recognize her invaluable contributions.
Friendship Circle
Clayton Hirsh has been involved with The Friendship Circle since he was a young member. Now, as an adult, Clayton serves as a board member and president of the FC alumni council, where he engages graduated Friendship Circle adults to stay involved in advocating for a more inclusive community. In his two years as council president, Clayton has planned events like happy hours and educational panels and recruited numerous young adults to the alumni network. The friendships he formed as a teen at FC continue to this day, showing Clayton’s lifelong commitment to The Friendship Circle and disability inclusion.
Hebrew Free Loan Association of Pittsburgh
Hebrew Free Loan Association of Pittsburgh is excited to recognize board of director and treasurer Debra Leff as our Volunteer of the Year. As a previous loan cosigner, auditor of a national nonprofit union, and small business owner, Deb brings a down-to-earth, no-nonsense and caring approach to meeting with applicants, chairing the audit committee and strategizing with the
executive committee. Deb is often the first to volunteer help and recently organized HFL’s Latkes for Loans at her beloved Zano’s Pub House, raising awareness and money, as well as preparing pounds of latkes. HFL is grateful to Deb for her commitment to our mission.
Hillel Academy
Yitzchak Cohen graduated Hillel Academy in 2010 and returned to Pittsburgh six years ago to work in the software industry. For the past three years Yitzhak has given back to Hillel Academy by teaching an elective coding course in our high school. His course is a student
favorite and is an integral part of our STEM program. Yitzy is dedicated to our students and our school and we are grateful for all that he has done. We are truly proud to call him an alum.
Edward and Rose Berman Hillel Jewish University Center
Ralph Roskies’ dedication to Hillel JUC’s vision of a world where every Jewish undergraduate student is inspired to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning and Israel is the reason he is Hillel JUC’s Volunteer of the Year. Involved with Hillel JUC for an unprecedented tenure of over 50 years, Ralph has been dedicated to supporting and advocating for Jewish students while serving on the Hillel JUC board of governors and committees, and as an emeritus trustee. Ralph was a volunteer on the committee which made the Hillel JUC building possible in 2001. We can always count on Ralph to attend and actively contribute to the Board of Governors meetings as an emeritus trustee. The Roskies will be sorely missed when they move out of state to be closer to family.
Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh
Alison Brown Karabin has shared the story of her grandmother Elizabeth Brown (z”l), who survived the camps and a death march, with hundreds of students and adults over the years as a volunteer in our Generations speakers bureau. In doing so, she brings a personal account of a Holocaust survivor with a Pittsburgh connection, making their lessons about this important topic even more tangible to people in our area. In addition, Alison assists at events and has served on our advisory board since 2019, helping new Generations speakers refine and finesse their presentations.
Jewish Assistance Fund
For over a decade, Paul Herman shared his time and love of community as a Jewish Assistance Fund volunteer. With boundless energy and dedication, Paul has helped to increase economic security in the western Pennsylvania Jewish community, one person at a time. Paul has been an engaged, caring and dedicated grantor and board member. We counted on him as we helped the community navigate financial challenges and provide financial help with no repayment every week throughout the year.
Jewish Association on Aging
Hugh Casper is a dedicated volunteer who delivers meals to homebound seniors through the Jewish Association on Aging’s Mollie’s Meals program, a mitzvah he’s done for 30 years with various community organizations. Everyone on this soon-to-be nonagenarian’s delivery route looks forward to seeing him, appreciating his kindness and company as much as the meals he brings. Deeply devoted to supporting our community’s seniors, Hugh feels a responsibility to ensure they’re fed, regardless of inclement weather or car troubles. His generosity and selflessness are undeniable, but as Hugh puts it, his desire to give back is simply “in my DNA.”
Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh
The Jewish Comm-unity Center of Greater Pittsburgh is proud to honor Rabbi Elimelech Seidman as the JCC Volunteer of the Year. Rabbi Seidman has been volunteering with AgeWell at the JCC since June 2022, and previously volunteered with AgeWell to pack lunches that were being delivered to isolated seniors during the pandemic, bringing his upbeat demeanor and sharing his favorite playlist to liven the workroom. Rabbi Seidman continues to be a linchpin of our volunteer team, giving his time almost every Friday serving lunch to older adults in the J Cafe congregate meal program. Rabbi Seidman’s efforts help ensure that our vulnerable seniors receive much
needed nutrition and social interaction, and that those who adhere to the laws of kashrut have a place to come and to feel welcome
Jewish Cemetery and Burial Association of Greater Pittsburgh
James P. Wagner, a valued volunteer to the many organizations he is associated with, is vice president of the Jewish Cemetery & Burial Association of Greater Pittsburgh. Jimmy played a key role in the planning and development of what is now the JCBA. In addition to being an officer, Jimmy is an integral member of the executive and development committees, where his efforts and outreach have greatly contributed to the JCBA’s funding and growth. We thank you, Jimmy.
Jewish Family and Community Services
Maya West volunteers with JFCS Refugee & Immigrant Services. She has proven that no task is too big or too small for her, helping with paperwork, organization and direct services. Maya welcomes refugees by setting up hotels and homes and helping them access essential documents and appointments when they first arrive. Her efforts have significantly expanded the capacity of refugee and immigrant services by addressing various needs as they arise. Maya is passionate about
her work at JFCS and deeply values the supportive environment and staff.
Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh
Ellen Teri Kaplan Goldstein is the Federation’s Gerald S. Ostrow Volunteer of the Year. ET’s efforts at the Federation focus on the important job of fundraising. She has served in virtually every campaign leadership role including campaign chair in 2022 and 2023. During her tenure as campaign chair, ET personally secured nearly 100 individual contributions to the annual community campaign. Today, she continues to take an active fundraising role. ET is a longtime member of the board of directors and served as an officer. She is also a former member of the planning and funding committee. Pittsburgh is incredibly lucky to have a volunteer like ET. We deeply appreciate the time, energy and enthusiasm she brings to the Federation.
Jewish Healthcare Foundation
Bill Isler came over from Mister Roger’s Neighborhood to join the Jewish Healthcare Foundation board in 1993, bringing with him the empathy, humor and loyalty he learned from Fred. Over the past three decades, Bill has served on numerous JHF committees and has always been an indefatigable advocate for the health needs of children, youth and families. In 2024, Bill served as the chair of JHF’s communications committee, a member of the executive committee and as a board member of Health Careers Futures. The foundation is incredibly grateful for Bill’s dedication and insightful contributions in 2024.
Jewish National Fund
Charlene and Allan Tissenbaum have become invaluable supporters and advocates for Jewish National Fund-USA. Despite enduring a rocket attack from Iran during their April 14 Volunteer
Mission, they continued with enthusiasm and found profound meaning in their experience. Charlene joined Women for Israel as a Chai member shortly afterward and plans to volunteer at ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran early next year. Their dedication extends to Allan’s mother, a Holocaust survivor, who they brought on the mission. This spring, they are set to host a JNF-USA parlor meeting, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting Israel and the Jewish community.
Kesher Pittsburgh
Kesher Pittsburgh is proud to nominate Ari Rapport as our 2024 Volunteer of the Year. Ari and his family are pillars of our community, consistently going above and beyond — arriving early to set up, staying late to wrap cords and warmly welcoming new faces. Ari is always willing to do more for Kesher, whether that be coordinating security, contributing to the leadership team, managing volunteers or even hosting gatherings. Our community is deeply blessed and grateful for Ari’s unwavering support, kindness, generosity and thoughtful guidance.
Lubavitch Center
Rabbi Dovie Saul is an “unsung hero” of Lubavitch Center. For years he has led the boys’ junior minyan on Shabbos morning, making a positive difference in many boys’ lives. He is a role model, who influences by his demeanor and acts of kindness. If asked, he helps wherever needed; but normally, he sees a need and just fills it without being asked. Lubavitch Center is blessed with young volunteers such as Rabbi Dovie, who does much but asks little.
Our Giving Kitchen
Daniel Wein exemplifies the spirit of volunteering and helping those less fortunate that drives Our Giving Kitchen. As secretary of the board, Daniel plays a key leadership role, contributing his time and expertise to strengthen our organization. Beyond his board responsibilities, Daniel, together with his family, is a hands-on volunteer who is always ready to help wherever he’s needed. Whether it’s preparing, packing or delivering meals to those in need, Daniel’s reliability and enthusiasm inspire everyone around him. His unwavering commitment has been instrumental in advancing OGK’s mission.
Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle
Choosing Evan Stein as this year’s Volunteer of the Year was especially easy. It’s not just that Evan steers the Chronicle as its board chair and serves as its technology jack-of-all-trades. In April the Chronicle pulled off its largest event ever, its first Big Nosh Jewish Food Festival. Evan conceived of it, planned it, raised most of the money for it and led or carried out all the execution of this complex multi-day event. Over the course of two days we served more than 3200 meals to Jews and non-Jews from all over the city, celebrating Jewish culture and the Chronicle’s growing coverage of food and culture. Kol Hakavod, Evan!
Rodef Shalom Congregation
Rodef Shalom Congregation is immensely proud to recognize Tony Richardson-Eckes as our Volunteer of the Year. Since joining our congregation, Tony has played a central role in fostering a community of caring for all our congregants. From greeting members and organizing welcoming programs to writing birthday cards, Tony’s warmth and kindness have touched every corner of our community. He also serves as a member of our board of trustees and co-chair of our member engagement committee. We are deeply grateful for Tony’s dedication and passion for helping others and supporting meaningful and lasting connections within our community.
StandWithUs
Marjorie Manne is an exceptional StandWithUs volunteer whose unwavering dedication has had a profound impact on educating our community about Israel and combating antisemitism. Over the past few years, she has played a pivotal role in organizing countless events, meetings, vigils and rallies. Marjorie has traveled to conferences, met with elected officials, and spearheaded efforts to oppose anti-Israel resolutions and BDS legislation. Her passion, commitment and tireless
drive are rooted in a deep sense of responsibility to both the Jewish community and the state of Israel. In the past year alone, Marjorie has hosted StandWithUs events in her home, served on the committee for the inaugural StandWithUs community reception, supported our legal and campus initiatives, and helped recruit and lead volunteers through grassroots activism. StandWithUs is deeply grateful for Marjorie’s unwavering support of our mission to fight antisemitism and promote education about Israel.
Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Temple Emanuel of South Hills proudly recognizes Julie Lutz as our Volunteer of the Year. A Torah Center and ECDC parent, Julie is always willing to lend a hand to our educational programs and step in to help with a fundraiser, bookkeeping task or classroom need. This past year, the Temple Emanuel gardening team was thrilled when Julie offered to help with an additional volunteer task: spearheading the planting, watering and harvesting in our community garden to benefit South Hills Interfaith Movement. She also pressure-washed our outdoor spaces, including our outdoor courtyard where we host Shabbat services on occasion during the summer months. We are so thankful she is part of our community and proud to honor her with this recognition.
Temple Ohav Shalom
Lydi Poller has been a dedicated member of Temple Ohav Shalom since 1976. She consistently has been an active member of numerous committees, including education, social action, rabbi search, building and landscaping committees. She was also a teacher for the Sunday school and has cooked for countless events. Lydi is most known as the pioneer of TOS’ library. She worked to secure space (in both the former building and current site) and has cataloged and repaired countless
books for the library, which has been a valuable resource for members for over 40 years.
Temple Sinai
Philip Lehman’s dedication to the Temple Sinai mission is diverse, never-ending and valuable. He understands the interconnection and importance of all aspects of synagogue culture and never underestimates the significance of the details. Philip’s broad-based contributions include philanthropy strategies, RACP award support, connecting new members to job opportunities, membership tactics, budgeting and cemetery planning, advising on the means of building a vital endowment and much more. Philip donates endless hours as a stabilizing resource to be sure that the Temple Sinai community will flourish and thrive decades into the future.
The Tree of Life
Jeffrey Letwin is a deeply engaged volunteer whose early and consistent dedication to rebuilding The Tree of Life has been foundational to our progress to date. In addition to his work securing and maintaining several key partnerships for our organization, he has been very involved as a volunteer for numerous committees over the years. Currently he serves as a member of our board of directors and our development committee; previously he served as chair of the steering committee, co-chair of the groundbreaking committee, member of the campaign cabinet, member of the interim governance committee and member of the architectural steering committee.
Tree of Life Congregation
Zachary Sikov, son of Paul and Ellen Goldstein Sikov, is a fifth-generation Pittsburgher whose family has attended Tree of Life Congregation for over 60 years. Zac grew up going to Tree of Life Sunday school, had his bar mitzvah there, and in high school built a new children’s library at the synagogue with his mom. Zac has run Tree of Life’s Young Jewish Community, which has held 43 events engaging over 140 unique young adults since February 2023. He also led the 2024 Synagogue Nomination Committee.
Yeshiva Schools of Pittsburgh
Yeshiva Schools of Pittsburgh is honored to nominate Theresa Firtell as our Volunteer of the Year. Her dedication and countless hours of service have made a meaningful impact on our school community. From organizing the call center for the Here to Stay Charidy campaign to chairing the back-to-school event committee, Theresa’s leadership shines through. She supports
the school through the parent association, coordinates Purim baskets, participates in the coffee and conversation mentorship program and arranges extra cleaning help to keep our buildings and dorms
sanitary. Her commitment is truly inspiring, and we are deeply grateful for all she does to enrich our community.
Young Judaea of Pittsburgh
Dafna Shimshi has always been an enthusiastic volunteer for Pittsburgh Young Judaea. Most recently she has eagerly helped organize the annual Shabbaton. The kids treasure this event each year, when they get to spend one Shabbat reliving the amazing summers they have at Camp Young Judaea Midwest. With her daughter Noa as a camper and then teen leader, Dafna always jumped in where needed. She also supports outreach efforts with our yearly Rosh Hashanah honey fundraiser. Thanks to her efforts, Young Judaea has continued to be an opportunity for Jewish children from diverse backgrounds to enjoy a joyful, tight-knit community that is passionate about Israel and Judaism.
Zionist Organization of America – Pittsburgh
Ira Frank has been very active with ZOA for over 25 years. He is currently ZOA Pittsburgh’s treasurer, and has been a board member, vice president and president. When ZOA ran its tolerance education program, taking Pittsburgh Public School students to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., he served on the committee and chaperoned bus trips to D.C. Ira is the consummate volunteer, almost never saying no. His dedication to the Jewish people and Jewish youth is second to none. This is evidenced by the multitude of Jewish organizations to which Ira has given himself.
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