Brenda Katten, Chairperson of ESRA 

During these past months, prior to taking on the chair of ESRA, I have endeavored to find out what makes ESRA tick.  Whilst a member over many years, I thought I had a good idea of its raison d’être – the facts proved otherwise as I was simply unaware of the numerous facets of this unique organization.  The opportunities afforded to volunteers to become involved in so many different ways have brought us volunteers the like of whom I have rarely met.  They are volunteers in the true meaning of the word, constantly giving without seeking anything for themselves.  In fact, they will say that it is their ability to help someone else that is their greatest reward.  

It is an honor and a challenge, as the new chairperson, to follow in the footsteps of Adele Hunter and Nina Zuck who, during the past two years have brought ESRA to new heights with their dynamic leadership. The good news is that they are retaining their important positions as heads of the Welfare Committee and Projects Committee respectively.

Why is ESRA unique?  Firstly, I would suggest, because of its volunteers, and secondly because of its support of those who fall through the social welfare net.  Constantly monitoring our projects ensures that ESRA meets the needs of the moment.  If a project appears to have fulfilled its role, then ESRA will assess whether it necessitates continued support. This is of vital importance to donors and potential donors who, especially at this time of an economic downturn, want to ensure that their donation is making a difference.

Anyone turning to the Friday editions of The Jerusalem Post and Haaretz and seeing the multitude and variety of ESRA programs offered to English speakers must be deeply impressed.  Whether a sunset breakfast on Tel Aviv beach front, an educational experience at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, a boat trip on the Yarkon or an evening with Frank Sinatra, ESRA offers an exciting new world to all, but especially to the recently arrived oleh. 

Yes, I feel privileged, excited and a little apprehensive in my new position, but draw comfort from the fact that surrounding me are our outstanding Honorary Life President Merle Guttmann, a first class executive, an experienced vice-chair in Baruch Tanaman, great branch chairpersons whom I am looking forward to meeting on home territory, and our dynamic executive director Yonit Gurfinkel who leads a small, but totally dedicated staff.

These past months of learning curve have shown me that this is a great organization boasting very special people. Working together, I am confident that we will continue to make a difference where it counts. 

Brenda Katten  

Elections were held at ESRA's Annual General Meeting on May 23. We welcome Brenda Katten as our new chairperson and Baruch Tanaman as vice-chair and wish them well in their new positions. Our warmest thanks to outgoing co-chairs, Adele Hunter and Nina Zuck, and outgoing co-vice-chairs, Jane Krivine and Val Kantor, all of whom have done an outstanding job over the last two years. 

Executive Committee:

• Brenda Katten, Chair
• Baruch Tanaman, Vice-Chair & Finance
• Adele Hunter,  Ex-officio, Welfare & Scholarships
• Nina Zuck, Ex-officio, Community Projects
• Annette Bode, Database Information
• Renee Goldstein, Fundraising & Membership
• Audrey Goodman, Cultural Activities
• Jane Krivine, Media & Northern area
• Janet Kiesari, Southern area
• Jennia Chodorov, Central area coordinator
• Lola Katz, Volunteering
• Maddy Levine, ESRAvision
• Roger Lavender, Chairman Finance Committee
• Richard Stein, Fundraising & Shops
• Ed Wolfe, Shops

Control Committee:  

 Sam Kirsch,  Ivor Brown