From the moment I learned about the work and values of JFCS East Bay, I knew I wanted to make an impact as part of this organization. What I did not realize, however, was how deeply working here would impact me in return.

Being born and raised in Ukraine, I grew up in a society that is, unfortunately, still grappling with “casual” antisemitism, “light-hearted” jokes rooted in stereotypes, and only beginning the difficult journey of confronting and reconciling with the role some Ukrainians played in the suffering of Jewish people who, throughout history, also called my beautiful country home. Over the last few months of working here, I have realized just how much depth, heart, cultural richness, and humanity I had missed out on because of that — and I have begun the work of filling those gaps in my own understanding.

Many ethnic and cultural communities in the United States make tremendous efforts to support one another, and that is both important and admirable. But it is often easier to welcome, support, and connect with people who are similar to us — people who share our language, culture, religion, traditions, or childhood experiences. What has been so unique and deeply impactful to me about the Jewish community in the East Bay — and, as I have learned through my work here, the broader network of Jewish community service organizations — is the genuine care, commitment, and effort devoted to helping people far beyond the immediate Jewish community: refugees from around the world, immigrants, children, and older adults from many different backgrounds.

At our Volunteer Appreciation event on June 7, I saw so many people who genuinely cared about — and have done so much for — Ukrainian refugees and others who have been forced to leave their homes. The first question many asked JFCS East Bay CEO Robin Mencher was about the legal situation facing Ukrainian refugees. And suddenly, something struck me: these volunteers, many of whom are Jewish and dedicate their time, energy, and resources to helping our clients, do not look at those of us who came from Ukraine as reminders of what some of their parents and grandparents were once forced to flee. In that room, we were all simply people. Human beings. And in a time marked by division, growing individualism, and pressure to “stick with your own,” that shared humanity feels more important than ever.

If there is one thing we can all do this month, let it be making an extra effort to incorporate the values of JFCS East Bay into our own lives and to treat the people around us accordingly:

• Repairing the World — תיקון עולם — Tikkun Olam
• Welcoming the Stranger — ידעתם את-נפש הגר — Yadatem Et Nefesh HaGer
• Pursuing Justice — רודפי צדק — Rodfei Tzedek
• Upholding the Dignity of Every Human Being — כבוד הבריות — K’vod Habriyot
• Being Responsible for One Another — כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה — Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh LaZeh