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22 February 2023
Bob Rodman
“There are always those less fortunate.”
When asked why he has donated to The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington for so many years, Bob recalls his own Jewish upbringing. “I grew up in Buffalo, NY in a lower-middle-class home. My mother was a homemaker, and my father never earned much money. Thankfully, we had enough food, a home, and utilities.”
Despite these circumstances, he remembers the blue pushka (a Yiddish word that denotes a tzedakah, or charity box or bag) that his mother put coins in each Shabbat and the words she’d say to him: “Remember, there are always those less fortunate.”
Those words have guided Bob’s philanthropy for many years. As longtime donors and Roots Society members, Bob and his wife, Lori, have led with their generosity, time, and spirit. Bob continues to be an active presence as a Federation Ambassador (lay leaders who serve as advocates for Federation) and volunteer, sharing his passion for and pride in the Jewish community with all who will listen.
When Bob thinks about the future of our Jewish community, he uses words like “belong,” “enrich,” and “values.” His vision for our community centers around belonging and a future that is more inclusive of people of different abilities and backgrounds, where everyone can see themselves as an integral part of the Jewish community.
“We hope that we can be part of inspiring more people to join in building our community,” Bob said. “And we hope to help ensure that Greater Washington’s Jewish community continues to thrive for generations to come.”