Her own children, Hannah, now 26 and living in Brooklyn, and Brady, 23, who resides in Canton, are her number one sources of joy. Lisa has always made it a priority to instill the value of giving back to them.

“I tell my kids, ‘We’re all connected in this world.’ People showed up for my kids when they lost their dad. Now they have space to do the same, to give back.”

When Lisa planned her first packing party, she didn’t realize it fell on Good Deeds Day. The first ever Good Deeds Day was celebrated in Israel in 2007.

Every year since then, Good Deeds Day unites people from around the world (over 110 countries!) for one day of community celebration and service. The Associated’s Macks Jewish Connection Network has expanded this concept into Good Deeds Month, hosting events all April including Dignity Grows’ Packing Party.

“It just so happened that it was Good Deeds Day when I had the first packing party at my house,” said Lisa. “I invited many of my friends and we had about 30 women in my yard. It was amazing. And then from there, I thought, ‘I want to do it every year on Good Deeds Day.’”

Lisa has since hosted three annual Dignity Grows packing parties, always adding her special touches to make the experience feel personal and meaningful. “I like to add my little touches because not only do I want the women who are coming to feel they’re doing something good for others, but I also want them to feel really special,” Lisa shared.

At her most recent packing party, she invited a friend to lead a prayer for the Israeli hostages. She even wrote a story about a young girl and her mother receiving the hygiene products, and the impact that it has on their lives. Lisa also serves healthy treats, decorates and hands out badges to thank everyone for their contributions.

Lisa also volunteers with hospice patients, offering companionship and comfort during some of life’s most difficult moments. “There have been quite a few experiences that have been really touching,” she said.

“I sat with a woman and I asked her if she liked music, and she said she loved jazz. So, I turned on some jazz and we held hands. I thought to myself, ‘this is the end of her life, and this is just a beautiful moment for her to still feel some joy. And while death and end of life is very, very sad, it can also become a very beautiful, beautiful time.’”

Lisa credits her deep commitment to giving back to her Jewish values. “Being a Jew is very much about Tikkun Olam,” she said. “When we see that there’s a need, we step in and say, ‘what can I do to help?’”

Loves Tradition

Her love for tradition is just as strong. Passover is one of her favorite holidays. Each Passover, Lisa carefully sets a beautiful table and lights a candle to acknowledge that the loved ones who are no longer with us here on earth are always in our hearts. “To see the flicker of the candle is comforting and a way of including them.,” she said. In recent years, she has also invited her children’s friends to join, ensuring the holiday is filled with warmth and community. To hear more about Lisa’s story and the causes she supports, check out her blog or listen to her recent podcast episode.