Why I Give
We all have the ability to help others less fortunate – some financially, some with their time or talents. Big gestures or small, it all makes a difference. -Michael Staenberg
We all have the ability to help others less fortunate – some financially, some with their time or talents. Big gestures or small, it all makes a difference. -Michael Staenberg
As a kid, I learned the meaning of giving back and doing my part to help others. I also learned each Hebrew letter has a numerical equivalent, and the sum of chet (numerical value of 8) and yud (numerical value of 10) is 18. The English translation of these two Hebrew letters (CHAI) put together is “Life”. This Jewish custom of giving charitably in multiples of 18 started with the Kaparot ritual performed the day before Yom Kippur in the hope that in giving tzedakah, the individual will be “sealed in the Book of Life.” Thus began the custom to give 18. As a result of its connection to the word for ‘life’, the number 18 is considered special in Jewish tradition and has been used for all forms of charity. It is for this reason that I frequently make gifts or charitable donations in multiples of 18. i.e., $360, $7200, $18,000, etc.
The lessons of my upbringing have stayed with me throughout my life and have become the basis for our philanthropy. I have written many checks for important causes over the years, but I am most proud to give my time and expertise. Raising money or sharing my knowledge and business resources to see a facility project through to completion can really help an organization succeed. And we don’t do this alone. I know that our giving has helped to inspire others to do their part too.
I was raised in a family of modest means but my parents never used that as an excuse not to support our community. We felt lucky to have a roof over our heads and food on the table. And we understood that was not the case for all. My parents taught us that it is always important to give to people who are less fortunate and to also look for other ways to help. This is an essential Jewish element of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world).
The links below represent a selection of organizations that Michael and the Foundation have provided significant support to over the years.