I had the pleasure of interviewing longtime CBJ member and past president Rob Friedman following the contribution made to Campaign Eit-Ratzon by he and his wife. Rob and Geri Friedman have been members of Congregation Beth Judea for over 40 years. Over four decades, they have consistently known CBJ to be a warm, welcoming place and a central focus of their Jewish lives. That drove their decision to make a generous contribution that includes naming honors for the Rabbi’s Study.
When asked what motivates them to give at such a meaningful level, Rob reflected on the role CBJ has played throughout their lives. “We’ve always been strong supporters of CBJ,” he shared. “Whenever there has been a need, we’ve tried to help. We wanted to make a meaningful contribution that would help perpetuate the synagogue for the next generation.” Their support comes from a deep sense of responsibility to sustain the community that has supported them for more than 40 years.
The Friedman family story is woven into the fabric of CBJ. The congregation has been present for moments of celebration-both of their sons’ bar mitzvahs-as well as during times when pastoral care was needed most. “The congregation has always been there for us,” they said. “We feel very connected and blessed to be part of it. We want CBJ to be that place for others, just as it has been for us.”
One aspect of CBJ they treasure, and which they hope every member experiences, is the warmth and welcoming they felt the first day they walked through the doors. That spirit has never faded. Over the decades, they have formed deep friendships and found a true sense of belonging. As a past president and longtime board member, Rob has also seen firsthand how that culture of warmth strengthens the congregation as a whole.
In choosing to name the Rabbi’s Study with their gift, they reflected on the impact of rabbinic leadership over the years. “It recognizes the great rabbis we’ve had,” said Rob, who complimented both Rabbi Zimbalist and Rabbi Lifshitz. “Morrie and Howard are both special to us and to the congregation. It felt meaningful to attach our family’s name to the Rabbi’s study.
As for the Eit-Ratzon campaign, Rob’s viewpoint on this community fundraising effort is clear: Participation matters more than dollar amounts. “It’s not about how much you give. Showing support in whatever way you can
is what strengthens our congregation,” Rob stated. “Having 100 percent participation from the Board of Directors speaks volumes to that commitment. If most of the congregation participates – no matter the amount – it bodes well for our future.”
The Friedman’s generosity reflects what is best about CBJ – a community rooted in care, sustained by commitment, and inspired by the belief that together, we can ensure a vibrant and welcoming home for generations to come.
The Friedman’s hope is that every member will feel moved to take part in building CBJ’s future. As we concluded our interview, Rob expanded on his appreciation of and dedication to CBJ. It was also clear to me that nothing would be more meaningful than a congregation where everyone chipped in at any level to help sustain and build our communal and spiritual home. Even I was reinvigorated about this exciting campaign after my conversation with Rob.