Growing up, were you familiar with The Associated? 

I remember I would always see The Associated sign outside the JCC. But it didn’t really mean anything to me then. It wasn’t until I was older that I began to learn that The Associated financially supported a number of different agencies whose work benefited our community.  

How did you get involved with The Associated? 

My co-worker, Tammy Heyman, brought me to an MIDC (Maryland/Israel Development Center) event down at the Museum of Industry. It was so exciting to see Jews from all spectrums of the Jewish community coming together. Tammy shared how she was volunteering with The Associated and suggested I get involved. I connected with Stephanie (Aaronson) Kohler who told me about YLC (Young Leadership Council). 

Tell me about the Young Leadership Council. 

It’s an amazing experience. You get to be part of the next generation of young leaders whose only reason that they are there is to give back to the community, both locally and abroad. Everyone wants to make a difference.  

Through YLC, I’ve gained a broader understanding of The Associated. One of the most interesting projects was a session where we learned how the budget allocations were made. It was eye-opening. There is this perception that The Associated has plenty of money, but when you work through the process, look at all the needs out there and have to make difficult decisions about what can and cannot be funded,  you realize needs exceed the available resources. It becomes clear that it’s important for our community to give what they can. 

Your wife Rachel is also involved with The Associated. How did the two of you meet? 

Rachel and I had many mutual friends growing up, but our paths never really crossed, until one of those friends formally introduced us in our early 20s. I like to say that I swept her off her feet, but Rachel insists that I didn’t win her over that easily.  

Switching topics, you’re a native Baltimorean. What’s the best part of living here? 

As they say, Baltimore is Smalltimore. It has a small town feel, where everyone knows one another, but there’s still a lot going on and a lot to do. Most of our friends and family live locally as well, which has anchored us to Baltimore.  

So, you are busy. Working, Volunteering, Raising a Family. Do you have time for fun? 

Exercise is an important part of my life. I enjoy cycling, road biking. My wife and I try to stay healthy and like to spend time outdoors with our kids. My youngest is two, and ’m looking forward to going hiking with them as they get older. 

Best advice? 

There’s a quote that I heard a number of years ago that has left a strong impression on me:  

When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world… Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself… if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family… and I could indeed have changed the world. 

I try to live my life like this and work on changing myself from the inside out. If I can do that, I can better help others and make an impact. 

Learn about our other Young Leadership Council members.