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To Donna giving back was not only a labor of
love, but it was also a religious duty.
In Judaism, a Mitzvah is a commandment to perform good deeds. After
receiving life-saving services from Jewish Family Services on
two different occasions, Donna chose to show her gratitude by
giving back to her community
through service to others.
The first time Donna sought help from JFS was when her car broke down. With the Jewish Emergency Loan Fund, made available through the Columbus Jewish Foundation, Jewish Family Services was able to loan Donna the money she needed for repairs.
"It was such a relief for me when JFS loaned me the money to have my car repaired," said Donna. "I have always taken care of myself and my daughter so the thought of not having a car was daunting."
The second time Donna
received lifesaving services from Jewish Family Services, she and her daughter, Crissy, were living in an area of
Columbus
plagued with crime. Donna feared for their safety. In addition
to desiring safer surroundings, Donna was facing open heart
surgery, while also being the sole support system for her
handicapped daughter. After being waitlisted for years to get
into an assisted building complex,
Donna's case manager at JFS made a call that resulted in Donna
and Crissy being able to get into the building within a week. They now live in a safe, secure building that is ideal
for senior citizens as well as the handicapped.
Because they were so thankful for the help they received from Jewish Family Services, Donna and Crissy served as volunteers for several years with JFS' Volunteer Mitzvah Corps program, visiting
Jewish ill people in Columbus area hospitals. For the "mitzvahs" they performed so often, both women were presented with JFS' Volunteer of the Year award in 2003.
Today, Crissy
volunteers at the Goodwill and Donna is currently
interested in working with Hospice. |