Dear friends, family, and cherished community,

This October, I have been given a deeply meaningful opportunity—to participate in the MOMentum program, a transformative journey to Israel for Jewish mothers at all stages of their personal and spiritual paths. This is more than a trip; it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and wrap myself in the vibrant community, ancient wisdom, and enduring spirit that Israel offers.

My connection to Israel is woven into the fabric of who I am. Each visit has felt like coming home—a return to a place that touches my soul and reconfirms my place within generations of Jewish memory and hope. The land, the people, the stories—they have always inspired me, nourishing my identity and reminding me why our heritage means so much.

Over the years, my journeys to Israel were always about uplifting others—serving as executive assistant to the director of the Jim Joseph Foundation, guiding teens on the BJE March of the Living, or supporting students as a Director of Education. Every visit was about holding space for others, helping them connect, grow, and discover their own sense of belonging.

This time is different and so deeply personal.

For the first time, I have the chance to travel to Israel not in a leadership or support role, but as a participant—making space for my own renewal, growth, and spiritual nourishment. As a mother to Gabriel and Elijah and as an educator, I pour my heart into nurturing others every single day. Yet I know that to best care for my family, my students, and my community, I also need to reconnect with myself, my roots, and my own dreams.

MOMentum is that opportunity—to return to Israel with open hands and an open heart, to gather new wisdom, and to return home inspired and re-energized. I cherish the thought of modeling this journey of lifelong learning for my boys, sharing what I discover, and bringing strength and passion back to my students, my family, and my community.

I would not be able to consider this step without the unwavering support of my husband, Chris. His encouragement and care allow me to embark on this pilgrimage, knowing our home and hearts are in good hands while I am away.

While the MOMentum program is generously subsidized, I am responsible for my roundtrip airfare, program fees and a deposit to hold my spot. These costs are significant, and so I turn to you, my beloved community, with humility and hope.

Should you feel moved to help—through a donation, sharing this letter, or simply sending your words of encouragement—please know it means the world to me. Thank you for believing in me and for making it possible to step forward into this journey, not just for myself, but for Gabriel, Elijah, my students, Chris, and all those I am privileged to support.

With all my love and gratitude,

Pam