When Susie Sorkin and her daughter Abby attended the General Assembly (GA), an annual event sponsored by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), in Washington D.C. last month, it was more than just a conference; it was a celebration of their shared values, a testament to their commitment to philanthropy, and a glimpse into the future of leadership within the Jewish community. For both, this experience was a weaving of past and present, where Susie’s rich legacy of community involvement intertwined beautifully with Abby’s fresh perspective as a rising leader.
Abby went into the GA with an open mind, eager to embrace the experience. “I didn’t have a lot of expectations,” she said, “but witnessing my mom in her element was inspiring.” As a leader for the Jewish nonprofit cohort, Abby felt an immediate connection with others who shared her passion for community service. For Susie, attending the GA with Abby evoked a wave of nostalgia. “My parents were active in Federations and Jewish nonprofits. It felt like a beautiful quilt we were weaving together, strengthening our community with every thread.”
This year’s GA brought together 2,500 people in community to confront unprecedented challenges — from the ongoing war with Hamas to the alarming rise in antisemitism here at home. The GA provided a platform for both women to engage in critical discussions about Jewish identity, philanthropy, and leadership. Abby was motivated by panels like “Israel’s Gender Gap in Leadership” and “Israel’s Messaging War“— which gave data-oriented tricks and tips on how to deal with antisemitism and anti-Israel feeling online and on the internet. “A lot of the webinars on this particular topic became grievance fests, but this time I came away with the feeling that I have actionable things that I can do. I have messages that I should be telling and messages that I should avoid.”
Susie was part of a panel on the Israel Emergency campaign — showcasing the power of philanthropy to tackle daunting, real-world crises. “It’s not just about giving; it’s about responsibility,” she emphasized. “Philanthropy is an obligation in the most positive sense. It connects us to our community and allows us to make a difference both locally and globally.”
The conversations Susie and Abby experienced at the GA were not just about challenges; they were also about the strength of community. Susie observed, “Being surrounded by people who care deeply about Jewish identity, Israel, and combating antisemitism was energizing.” For Abby, witnessing her mother’s leadership reinforced her desire to contribute meaningfully. “It made me realize that I want to be a leader.”
Their intergenerational philosophy — rooted in tzedakah, leadership, and a commitment to Judaism — is a huge part of their lives. “It’s a generational thing,” Abby explained. “Mom and Dad raised me with these values, and now I want to carry them forward.” Together, Susie and Abby are not just part of a community; they are leaders shaping its future, one shared experience at a time.
