Community Corner

Community Corner

Elana Vorspan, Director of Marketing & Communications

The Value of Membership

I'm often asked to define the value of a VBS membership. Certainly the answers can be long and full of intangibles, but for me there is no clearer answer than community. Three weeks ago, my father passed away suddenly after a brief illness. The immediate response and care my family and I felt from clergy, staff, parents in the schools and members of the community was truly overwhelming. While it was among the saddest moments I experienced in my life, it also affirmed my decision to be part of this outstanding community and it offered me moments of joy and strength at such a difficult time. Weeks later, I am still receiving messages of kindness from VBS friends. The value of that connection and compassion is priceless.

In 2012, when my husband Ben and I were searching for a preschool for our son, Evan, we were immediately impressed by the warm environment we experienced on our VBS ECC tour, and the many enjoyable Shabbat mornings we spent at Tot Shabbat. We knew this was the place for us. Months later, when a professional opportunity opened up for me at the Day School and eventually the synagogue, I knew this was where I should be.

As our children have now graduated the ECC and moved on to the Day School, we see each day the value of our connection and commitment to VBS. They are thriving in a school that emphasizes emotional well-being, Jewish values and a love of Hebrew and Israel, just to name a few. We as parents have made our most meaningful social connections through our involvement with the school and the synagogue.

I invite you to attend a Shabbat morning prayer experience - whether it be Playground Minyan, Kids Minyan, N'Shama Minyan, Library Minyan or our main service - be inspired to connect with others and feel at home here. Attend one of our Rabbi's learning opportunities, a community holiday celebration or a social action program, or send your child to one of our Youth Department's exciting events. Or just come upstairs to our offices and say hello, I'd love to meet you and tell you more about VBS. I encourage you to visit our website, explore what we offer, tune in to a live stream program, and connect with us on Facebook. Your community awaits you. Hope to see you soon.