Editor’s Note: In November, Brett Goldfine along with nine other new Sisisky Fellows traveled to the Country of Georgia with Brad Kaplan, JCFR Chief Philanthropy Officer, and several JDC staff members. The following is a personal reflection about his incredible experience seeing the work of JDC with Jewish seniors.
By Brett Goldfine, JDC Entwine Sisisky Fellow
When I stepped into the chilly night from the fluorescence of the airport lights, I had only two things on my mind – food and sleep.
Some 24 hours earlier, I, along with 12 young men and women from D.C. and Richmond set off for a one-week immersion into the rich Jewish history and vibrant culture of Georgia as 2024 JDC Entwine Sisisky Fellows.
The JDC, or Joint Distribution Committee, is the premier global Jewish humanitarian organization. Founded in 1914 to relieve Jewish communities affected by World War I, the JDC now works in over 70 countries providing aid, support, and essential services many of these communities are unable to provide on their own.
One of the most surprising aspects of Georgian Jewry I learned on our very first full day, and one that we continued to be reminded of, is there is virtually ZERO antisemitism.
You see, Georgian Jewish history begins over 2,600 years ago when Jews fleeing the Babylonian Exile first settled in the land. Since then, Jews have been an integral part of Georgian society and culture.
As our incredible guide, Vito, so eloquently put it, “Georgians are great hosts. And Jews are great guests!”
At its height during the Soviet Union, the Jewish population of Georgia was around 80,000-100,000. Once the Soviet Union fell, many emigrated to Israel, the United States, and Europe and today has dwindled to around just 1,500 people.
While the trip had many, many moments of personal impact, in this article I’d like to focus on the single most meaningful moment for me.
On the very first day, I, along with two Fellows, our guide Vito, and a caseworker, went to visit Nora.
At 90 years old, Nora is still as sharp and quick as she ever was. If she didn’t proudly declare that she had just celebrated her 90th birthday, I would never have guessed. In her youth, she worked at the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute translating engineering texts from German to Russian. Needless to say, she is smart as hell.
As we sat around her dining room table, munching on chocolate and churchkhela (Georgian “Snickers”), it became quite clear that her apartment was basically a time capsule of Soviet-era Georgia. She even informed us that the wallpaper is the original wallpaper that was put up when the apartment building was erected.
She also went on to show us the bullet hole (with bullet still there) in the ceiling left from the Georgian Civil War in the early 90s.
Even though much of the apartment was so old she was very proud of the fact that she had brand new windows, bought for and installed with the generosity of the JDC and Chesed that she has been involved with for years.
Chesed was developed by the JDC to help the Jewish populations of countries within the Former Soviet Union. Chesed provides many families and individuals with food, medical care, and social programs.
These centers are especially important to the elderly who often feel isolated and lonely because many of their families have moved to Israel, the US, or Europe ever since the fall of the Soviet Union. Chesed provides a place for them to socialize, connect, and celebrate with other elderly Jews.
Until recently Nora went to the Chesed House every day but due to bad knees, she is unable to walk down the stairs anymore. Luckily, Chesed (and by proxy, JDC) has provided her with a walker to get around her apartment. And, now through the JointTech program (famously piloted by a grant from our very own Richmond Federation), she is now able to socialize through a phone (also provided by Chesed).
Nora and I built an almost immediate rapport but the very first thing I noticed about her was that she looked suspiciously like my own late grandmother. Then we further bonded over our aptitude for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and our love of Pesach.
As our visit with Nora came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible resilience and strength she embodied. Despite the hardships she faced, her spirit remained unbroken, and her gratitude for the support she received was palpable.
This encounter left a profound impression on me, highlighting the critical role that organizations like JDC play in sustaining and nurturing Jewish communities around the world.
Nora’s story is a testament to the enduring bond within the Jewish diaspora and the importance of providing aid and support to those in need. It also underscored the significance of preserving cultural and historical heritage, even in the face of adversity. The work of JDC and programs like Chesed not only offer practical assistance but also foster a sense of community and belonging, which is invaluable for individuals like Nora who might otherwise feel isolated.
This experience has inspired me to think about how I can contribute more actively to these efforts. Given my background as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, I see a potential for introducing basic lab testing services to the JDC’s array of support programs. By providing easy and affordable laboratory testing kits, we can help monitor and improve the health of the elderly and impoverished in areas with limited medical resources.
Regular health screenings could catch potential issues early, ensuring timely medical intervention and better overall health outcomes.
Additionally, considering my background in STEM, I am passionate about initiating a youth STEM education program within the Jewish communities the JDC supports. This program could provide young people with the skills and inspiration they need to pursue careers in science and technology, ensuring that the legacy of intellectual curiosity and innovation continues.
Throughout the trip, I was immersed in the vibrant culture of Georgia, from tasting delicious local cuisine (khinkali and khachapuri) to participating in traditional celebrations (Chabad Shabbat dinner at Mendi’s).
These experiences deepened my appreciation for the rich heritage and resilience of the Georgian Jewish community and made me recognize the commonalities that bind my community, the Georgian community, and Jewish communities around the world.
My time as a JDC Entwine Sisisky Fellow has been transformative, and I urge others to get involved in any capacity they can. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading awareness, every effort counts in making a difference.
Together, we can continue to support and uplift Jewish communities worldwide, ensuring that stories like Nora’s are not only heard but also cherished and supported.
