As a child growing up in Brooklyn, I received a Jewish education and was taught the mitzvah of “tzedakah.” I remember placing a few cents in a tin box (pushka) that hung on the wall.

The continuation of Judaism rests with future generations. Jewish children growing up in our community should all have a religious education and be aware of their heritage.

For many years I taught religion at a residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed children at the Edenwold Center in Pleasantville, New York. Although I was a teacher and administrator in the New York City Schools, I received the most gratification teaching Judaism to these children; many could not afford this education.

It is my hope that all Jewish children in the San Diego community will grow up as delighted and grateful to be a Jew as I am. To me charity and community are closely linked. If we don’t help each other, who will?

The giving of charity is greater than all offerings.