If you are like me – Jewish, female, and a baby boomer – you are part of a growing group of women philanthropists transforming the Jewish world.

On Sunday, October 9, the 2016-17 Saltzman Youth Panel opened our first meeting by talking about an amazing individual. There are many words to describe Maurice Saltzman – orphan, businessman, and entrepreneur are just a few that come to mind. The most important word I can use to describe Mr. Saltzman would be teacher.

Many people ask me, “What can I do with all the beautiful honey I have left over after Rosh Hashanah?”

In just a little more than 48 hours Jewish tradition suggests that our fates will be sealed for the year to come. Since Rosh Hashanah we have been reflecting on our personal behavior of the past year – our relationships with one another and our relationship with our Creator.

Shari Perlmuter grew up in Jewish Cleveland and has spent a lifetime not only giving her time and money to the Jewish Federation of Cleveland but her heart as well. In recognition of that lifelong commitment and passion for the Federation and the Jewish community, Shari is receiving this year’s Ruby Bass Award. Shari hopes her legacy of tikkun olam (repairing the world) lives on for years to come.

“If Federation wasn’t there helping my family, I wouldn’t be who I am and where I am today.”

Hi, my name is Sammie Jacobs. I was born and raised in Beachwood, and will be a Senior at Case Western Reserve University this fall. I participated on Onward Israel this past summer, and was one of 42 Clevelanders who went on Onward this year.