Mishloach Manot Initiative at The Heschel School in memory of Judi Zvi

The Mishloach Manot Initiative at the Heschel School has been named in memory of Judi Zvi (nee Fleishman) z”l – a great wife, mother, daughter, friend, business woman and very special volunteer. Judi was there for everyone; for family, friends and the hundreds of childless Jewish families from around the globe whom, with her business, Ovum Donor Registry, she assisted in making their dreams of a family become a reality.

Judi was one of the most extraordinarily dedicated members of the Parents’ Association. In fact, she was the first recipient of the Heschel’s “Volunteer of the Year” award. Her first volunteer position at Heschel was that of “Sunshine Correspondent.” In that capacity she wrote hesed related notes spreading good cheer to members of the community on behalf of the parent body.

In her early days as a Heschel parent, she introduced the community to the Purim Carnival, or, as she named it “Purim Pandemonium,” which is as we know it today. Judi loved to see the whole community dressed up in costumes, enjoying the Mishloach Manot, the prizes and the games. She continued to support the carnival even after her own children, Lior and Ronit, had outgrown it, as she loved bringing the spirit of the holiday to her extended Heschel family.

Judi was omnipresent at events and meetings, often serving in many positions concurrently. She served two terms as PA Co-President. Judi was also the Events Chair of the PA for years, mentoring newer Heschel parents in planning and executing events. Many of those parents remain active at Heschel today. Judi co-chaired the Heschel Auction for three years and worked hard to ensure that there was something for everyone in the community to purchase. She made certain the event reflected the Heschel values of inclusiveness and economic diversity, which were core values to her.

When the Heschel High School opened, Judi was one of its great cheerleaders and was instrumental in building the community feeling. She served on the committee that organized parlor meetings introducing the Heschel High School to the community. When her daughter, Ronit, joined the High School, Judi became the coordinator of HS events and then coordinator of class parents. Judi also helped establish the PA High School Orientation for incoming 9th grade parents, the Pre-Passover event and the Parents in Action evenings.

Judi’s work at Heschel reflects the following quote: “The purpose of life is a life of purpose” (Robert Byrne). Judi found great purpose in the work she did for the Heschel community. She engaged and inspired a multitude of volunteers year after year to join her in her efforts. Always with creativity, wisdom, a smile on her face, humor and a hope for a better future, she was an exemplar at the school. Judi was taken from us in the prime of her life. The Heschel community will continue far into the future to benefit from her efforts, wisdom, dedication, and love of life.