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JFSA women launch year with Sukkot party

Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona Women’s Philanthropy Fall Kickoff Co-Chair Judy Berman introduces Youth On Their Own Ambassador Hope Sherise (JFSA)

Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona Women’s Philanthropy held its fall kickoff event, “Salsa in the Sukkah,” on Wednesday, Oct. 16. Youth On Their Own Development Director Bethany Neumann and Youth Ambassador Hope Sherise spoke about YOTO, Women’s Philanthropy social action beneficiary, which helps homeless or unaccompanied students graduate high school. About 75 guests enjoyed tapas and cocktails from El Charro in the sculpture garden of the Tucson Jewish Community Center and joined in waving the lulav and etrog in the sukkah. The evening included an announcement of the speaker for the Women’s Philanthropy Connections event on March 8: Dr. Ruth Westheimer.

Participants gather as Nancy Mellan, Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona Women’s Philanthropy social action co-chair, shakes the lulav and etrog. Shelly Silverman, JFSA immediate past chair, led the crowd in the Sukkot blessings.