Demonstrating remarkable leadership and commitment to the future of the Wise community, five longtime Wise member families have combined to add a total of over $1 million in gifts to the transformational Early Childhood Education project. This exciting endeavor was launched by the $12 million matching gift from the Lowell Milken Family.
These generous gifts were donated by Lynn and Les Bider, Jodie and Steven Fishman, Janine and Rick Kolodny, Corie and Michael Koss, and Andrea and Glenn Sonnenberg—a group of dedicated lay leaders that includes three past presidents of Wise (Lynn Bider, Steven Fishman, Glenn Sonnenberg) and the current Wise president (Janine Kolodny).
“I am so grateful to our leadership for their enthusiastic and generous support of our new Early Childhood Education and Parenting centers,” said Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback. “Their commitment to the future of our community and our People inspires me every day.”
When asked what the Early Childhood Education project means to them, each family responded with inspirational words of support for the next phase of the Wise community’s growth:
“Jewish education from the beginning puts a child’s journey through life on a well founded path. We have experienced firsthand its deep impact on our children and grandchildren.”
Lynn and Les Bider, Major Gift Co-Chairs
“It is with great joy that we are able to join in this transformational gift to Stephen Wise Temple, and the Jewish Community of Los Angeles, to build a truly state-of-the-art Early Childhood Education Center. As very passionate Jews we remember the past, are grateful for the present, and cherish a future for our children built on a foundation of Jewish values and Torah!”
Jodie and Steven Fishman
“We believe strongly in the importance of an early childhood education steeped in Jewish values. Our children and so many others have benefited from their wonderful years at Wise and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to this exciting and transformational project.”
Janine and Rick Kolodny
“We are strident supporters of Jewish continuity and we sincerely believe that the most important contributing factor is when a child can receive a Jewish education beginning at an early age. Wise School is an inspirational educational institution and we are very happy to be a contributing part of the new Early Childhood Education campus.”
Corie and Michael Koss, Major Gift Co-Chairs
“A life of purpose begins in childhood. Preschool is recognized as a key formative time and a strong indicator of success in later life. We want to be on the ground floor of this foundational experience for every child.”
Andrea and Glenn Sonnenberg
Wise hopes that these leadership gifts will inspire many congregants who understand and appreciate the benefits children derive at a young age from an education steeped in Jewish values.
To learn about giving opportunities or for general information about this exciting new project, please contact Jessica Lebovits Mannon, Director of Development, at [email protected] or by phone at 310.889.2276.
