Recognizing Trailblazing Women at the NCJW’s Annual Fundraiser
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) of Michigan has been dedicated to improving the lives of women, children, and families since 1891. Guided by Jewish principles, NCJW works tirelessly to protect individual rights and promote social justice. One of its hallmark events is the annual “Women of Vision” fundraiser, which highlights influential speakers who address pressing contemporary issues.
Keynote Address by Sarah Hurwitz
This year’s event, scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, 2023, at Adat Shalom Synagogue, will feature Sarah Hurwitz as the keynote speaker. Hurwitz, who served as a senior speechwriter for President Obama and the First Lady, Michelle Obama, brings a wealth of experience as a former advisor to the White House Council on Women and Girls. She is also the author of two notable books, including her recent release, As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame and Try to Erase Us.
Her work aims to explore the impact of antisemitism on Jewish identity and cultural practices. In her own words, Hurwitz stated, “Having written this book, and having taken a deep dive into Jewish history, I’ve come to realize that my Jewish identity had been infiltrated and warped by thousands of years of antisemitism…”
A Conversation with Rabbi Michele Faudem
Hurwitz’s address will be complemented by a discussion with Rabbi Michele Faudem, who serves as a rabbi and educator at Hillel of Metro Detroit. The dialogue will delve into Hurwitz’s insights from her time in the White House and the transformative power of the written word. She is a proud alumnus of Harvard College and Harvard Law School and has been widely featured in various media outlets.
Awards Ceremony
During the “Women of Vision” event, the NCJW will honor two remarkable contributions to the community:
- Treger Strasberg: Recognized for founding Humble Design, a nonprofit that assists homeless families in transitioning into stable housing by providing them with essential home furnishings.
- Cap & Conquer: Awarded the Josephine S. Weiner Community Service Award for its innovative scalp cooling program that helps cancer patients manage hair loss during chemotherapy.
Impact of the Honorees
Treger Strasberg’s Humble Design has made significant strides, helping over 133 families in Metro Detroit in 2024 alone. The organization expands its outreach by employing furniture donations and design expertise to create welcoming spaces for those in need. “We provide donated furniture and teams of designers who create attractive, welcoming environments as these families start anew,” said Amy Zeskind, the president of NCJW/MI.
Cap & Conquer, founded in 2020, assists women in accessing scalp cooling treatments, a method shown to help preserve hair follicles during chemotherapy. According to Janet Gendelman, a co-founder, “For women who apply to us for help, we pay the capping companies directly for 25% to 100% of the cost depending on the individual’s financial situation.” This initiative has already aided 456 women, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to support patients facing the challenges of cancer treatment.
Event Details
The “Women of Vision” fundraiser will take place on:
- Date: October 21, 2023
- Location: Adat Shalom Synagogue, 29901 Middlebelt Road, Farmington Hills
- Ticket Prices: Starting at $54
- Registration Time: 9:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Boutiques will also be open, allowing patrons to browse from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet Sarah Hurwitz from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The program, including the keynote and awards presentation, will commence at 11:45 a.m. followed by lunch.
For further details, please visit www.ncjwmi.org.
