My engagement in the Jewish community in New Jersey was inspired by my senior law partner. As a young associate I observed his tireless work for both the Federation and the JCC (where he had served as President). As a result of his encouragement, I began making contributions and attending events. Immediately after his passing in 2001, I began to volunteer my time by serving on JCC committees and boards. In this way I learned about the difference that we can make in our own community by helping Jews in need, and helping enrich the lives of all Jews.

My involvement in the greater Jewish community grew as Ava’s grew; I attended Federation events with Ava and became a donor in my own name. I accompanied Ava on several missions to Israel, and we saw through each other’s eyes the wonder of the country and the bonds that we as American Jews can make with Israel and Israelis.

Like Ava, I carried my love for the Jewish people to Charleston, and feel strongly that we should support, in perpetuity, the Jewish community that has welcomed us so warmly and enhanced our lives.

– Bruce Kleinman

Bruce and Ava Kleinman

Jewish values teach you to care for others, teach you a love of Israel, and teach you the importance of family and friends and community. It’s very important for us to see the continuity of the Jewish people.

My biggest influence was my dad, who was engaged in a lot of philanthropic activities and was very active in our Jewish community in the Catskill Mountains. I remember him walking door to door during the Six-Day War to raise money for Israel. I remember his generosity to everyone in the community, not just Jews, but especially to the Jewish community. I’ve always felt it in my heart.

When I got involved in the Metrowest community in New Jersey, I was very inspired by the lay leadership there, and joined them. I met people who had the same passion for Jewish identity that I did, and they helped me nurture it and showed me how to be a leader.

Bruce and I have been so embraced by the Charleston Jewish community and we feel that we’ve made a home here, so we’re very happy to help support it into the future through our legacy gifts. In addition to doing what we are doing while we are alive, a legacy gift is the best way to help ensure that work will continue after we’re gone.

– Ava Kleinman