Meet A Donor: Jessica Hamermesh
"Contributing to JCHE is a way to give back to those who gave so unquestioningly to us."
Jessica Hamermesh cares deeply about family. As the mother of young children, she feels particularly attuned to the responsibility that loved ones have for one another. “Now that I’m a mother, I have a stronger understanding of how extensively one generation cares for the next,” says Jessica. “It’s up to us to give our parents and grandparents the respect they deserve.” For Jessica, that translates into contributing time, talents and resources to JCHE to offer community seniors exceptional housing.
Jessica first became familiar with JCHE through her involvement with CJP’s Young Leadership Division. Along with her husband Josh, she attended several of the joyous Senior Proms that YLD sponsors at JCHE’s Golda Meir House. She was delighted by what she saw throughout the building. “JCHE is worlds apart from where my grandparents had lived.” Jessica has particularly clear memories of visiting her grandfather in a nursing home when she was young, and recalls leaving with a sense of sadness. “I watched as he declined in that environment. He was no longer the vibrant man who had been such an important part of my childhood.”
Wanting her sons to have interactions with older people that would be more positive, Jessica was instrumental in creating a monthly intergenerational Shabbat celebration at Golda Meir House. Families with young children who, like Jessica, are involved in CJP’s Jaffa Society share Shabbat festivities together with Golda residents. “My boys run into the building with their arms wide open, knowing that they will get a hug from everyone they see.” Jessica is delighted with the outcome. “I know this experience will forever shape how they feel towards older people. And for me, that’s priceless.”
Jessica’s ongoing involvement with JCHE is extensive. She is a member of the Board of Directors and has been an active member of the event committee for the past two years. She has brought numerous friends and family members to JCHE to encourage them to join her in making financial contributions. Jessica explains, “It’s a way to give back to those who gave so unquestioningly to us.”
Jessica recently received a 2008 Circle of Excellence Award for Growth and Leadership from CJP. When interviewed for a video that was shown at the award ceremony, Jessica spoke about her involvement with JCHE and the Jaffa Shabbat program. “Receiving this award is very meaningful to me,” she says. “I am so pleased to be recognized for my connection to JCHE.”
