|
|
|
| Shirlee Lenske - Lessons from Bubbe |
Shirlee's eyes dance as she shares the lively stories captured in the many family photographs that grace her bright Portland home. She lives a life filled with loved ones and is grounded in her strong connection to Judaism.
"I spent much of my free time growing up with my Bubbe, who I adored. She was very philanthropic and loved by her community. She taught me the Jewish values of giving early on, and helped me see the importance of life's earliest experiences, too," she explains.
As a result, in her own philanthropy and in her life shared with her late husband Reuben, Shirlee has embraced the causes of youth, education, and literacy. "Reuben and I both felt strongly that we needed to give back and help others. We shared this vision and the joy of being able to realize it through The Reuben and Shirlee Lenske Family Fund of the OJCF."
Shirlee has expressed her generosity in so many ways, from supporting Jewish Federation of Greater Portland to serving on the board of Portland Jewish Academy and the Mittleman Jewish Community Center. She also played a key role in bringing The PJ (Pajama) Library to Portland, and supports all these organizations with grants from her donor advised family fund.
"I love what The PJ Library is doing, bringing books and music to young Jewish families. I am proud to be able to support this exceptional program. It really plants the seeds of love for Judaism in early life."
Shirlee has definitely found her voice as a Jewish philanthropist and enjoys the naches of seeing her blended family of children, grandchildren and a great grandchild take their places in the community. She is very proud of Marissa and Zac Snyder, who serve on the OJCF Youth Foundation.
She, herself, is now a Bubbe leading the way for the next generation with her own special touch.
|
© Copyright 1999-2010 Crescendo Interactive, Inc.
|
|
