Tzedakah, a Hebrew word that can be translated to charity, is only one small part of the term’s mission. The root, tzedek, translates to justice or righteousness, indicating that tzedakah is much more than giving money to a beloved charity. Tzedek implies that we choose to be just members of our world community.  

Tzedakah is a pillar in Jewish life as it is rooted in the belief that giving promotes fairness, justice, and a moral world. During biblical times, farmers would set aside part of their harvest for those who did not have their own land or crops. Today, tzedakah looks different for every family: some donate their time to be a part of the JCC Denver LGBTQIA+ Committee, some give to the JCC and the Mizel Arts and Culture Center as part of their yearly giving plan, and some select the highest tiered price on the sliding scale to provide opportunities for others to live Jewishly. Thanks to your tzedakah, the JCC Denver remains a hub for Jewish connection. 

The annual community celebration of the Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center, TODAH, encapsulated the value of tzedakah, displaying both giving and delight. On November 15, the entrance and lobby of the Mizel Arts and Culture Center was transformed into Denver International Airport, including Blucifer (the blue, red-eyed horse that stands outside of DIA) and our very own CEO’s voice announcing the arrival of the train (but for our event!) With just a few steps, attendees swiftly flew out of DIA and landed in New York City as they entered the unrecognizable and bustling Phillips Social Hall. Bites of traditional Jewish deli food portrayed the classic essence of New York – Reuben sandwiches on rye, matzah ball soup, and of course, pickled everything. Guests played ping-pong and roasted s’mores in the Catskill mountains. And the Karaoke Bar sent attendees crooning to Cyndi Lauper, Bob Dylan, and Broadway showtunes.  

Of course, a trip to New York wouldn’t be complete without a cup of joe, a black and white cookie, and a souvenir tchotchke (Yiddish for trinket) from the gift shop. Guests walked away with an ‘I heart JCC’ mug, tee-shirt, or tote bag, along with a newspaper featuring a JCC crossword puzzle and an Ask Bubbe column (copies are still available in the JCC lobby). Community member and TODAH guest, Tiffany Sanders, said it best: “I feel like I’ve been transported to another world.” From the scents to the sounds, New York was here in Denver, Colorado. 

TODAH was more than a celebration – it was a reminder of the interconnectedness of this community and displayed the marvel that is the Jewish experience. Thank you for playing an irreplaceable role in uplifting your neighbors, friends, and fellow community members.