By Jill Grossman
JCFR Director of Women’s Philanthropy and Affinities
Mother and daughters. Nieces, grandmothers, sisters and friends. Over 100 community members watched as Nannette Shor was honored as this year’s L’Dor V’Dor, Woman of Valor.
“Whenever your children learn a family tradition, story, or recipe, that’s L’dor V’dor. Each member of your family plays a role in shaping who your children will become.”
Held in the beautiful new lobby and courtyard at Congregation Beth Ahabah, the L’Dor V’Dor reception was truly an evening to remember. Dinner and drinks were served while guests enjoyed a digital slideshow presentation that included photos and tributes for Nannette.
Leading up to L’Dor V’Dor, family and friends had an opportunity to make tributes in appreciation and gratitude for Nannette and all that she has done for them, and her community.
These incredible accolades and photos, along with photographs from the evening, will be turned into a book for Nannette.
Ellen Renee Adams, president, Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, welcomed everyone and spoke briefly about her recent trip to the Ukrainian border in Poland and the power and importance of being involved and passing along Jewish values and traditions.
Jill Goldfine, chair, JCFR Women’s Philanthropy, remarked about her longtime best friend and friendship with Nannette, and how Nannette has guided her not only through words but with action, and her dedication to family and the Jewish community.
Nannette’s mother and previous L’Dor V’Dor, Woman of Valor Award honoree, Hedy Lapkin, had the honor of presenting this year’s award to her daughter! It was especially touching when Hedy remarked, “your father would be proud.”
Nannette was presented with a gorgeous piece created by an Israeli artist before delivering her acceptance speech.
As she spoke, all could feel Nannette’s passion; her feeling of importance in the passing along of our culture’s values, rituals, traditions, and history to the next generation. Nannette’s love for her family and friends, and her community, is palpable.
Amy Melnick-Scharf, chair, Jewish Community Relations Committee and co-chair of the event, introduced the keynote speaker, Gadeer Kamal-Mreeh, senior envoy to Washington, D.C., The Jewish Agency for Israel. For 45 minutes, the audience was wowed by Gadeer’s powerful message of equality, opportunity, the importance of being inclusive, family, values, and more. A lively question and answer session followed.
Melissa Zinder, JCFR Board member and event co-chair, closed the program.
Thank you to all who attended the event, made gifts and sent tributes and photos in honor of Nannette. A special thank you to our Corporate Partners – Allianz, Dominion Payroll, Dunkin’, Heritage Wealth Advisors, Montante Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics and S.L. Nusbaum. Their support allows the JCFR to maximize our impact on the community.
For more information about JCFR Women’s Philanthropy, contact Jill Grossman at jgrossman@jewishrichmond.org.
