At Jewish Family Services, we are honored to celebrate the enduring generosity of the Blank Family, whose commitment to our Adopt-a-Family program has made a profound impact on our community. This cherished family tradition, rooted in the love and values of their matriarch, Dorothy Kahn, is a beautiful example of how one person’s kindness can inspire generations.
A Tradition of Generosity
In the late 1990s, Dorothy Kahn introduced her family to the Adopt-a-Family program as part of their annual Chanukah celebrations. Every year, Dorothy hosted a festive gathering at her home, bringing together her 18 grandchildren for a night filled with laughter, games, a cousins’ gift exchange, latke-eating contests, and the lighting of the menorah. As the family grew, so did their tradition. Dorothy and her grandchildren decided to use the money they would have spent on gifts for each other to adopt a family through JFS. Together, they shopped for items on wish lists, providing holiday joy and essentials to families in need.
Continuing the Legacy
After Dorothy’s passing, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren carried on her tradition, ensuring her legacy of generosity lives on. For several years, every Chanukah, even the youngest members of their family were included in choosing gifts for Adopt-a-Family recipients. This hands-on approach has instilled Dorothy’s values in future, generations, teaching them the importance of helping others.
“We know she would still be giving if she were here today,” shared one of Dorothy’s grandchildren. “As a family blessed in so many ways, it’s an honor to bless others during the holidays.”
Now, as the family has grown and is scattered across the United States, they continue to honor this tradition each Chanukah. Together, they pool their money to provide gift cards for Adopt-a-Family, keeping Dorothy’s spirit of giving alive no matter where they are.
Making a Difference
The Blank Family’s unwavering commitment has brought joy and hope to countless families over the years. Their tradition reminds us that giving is more than a gift, it’s an opportunity to create meaningful connections and uplift others in their time of need. This holiday season, we remember Dorothy Kahn and celebrate the Blank Family for their incredible dedication to our mission. They are a shining example of how love, generosity, and compassion can transform lives and strengthen our community. Thank you, Blank Family, for ensuring Dorothy’s light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those you help.
Learn More
Visit our website to explore how you can get involved or browse our Adopt-a-Family Amazon Wishlist to help brighten the holidays for families in need. Join us in carrying on the Blank Family tradition, honoring the generous spirit of Dorothy Kahn, by spreading joy and giving back to our community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference!
