Category: Leadership

A small Jewish community dedicated to thriving

Building a Portland community for women with “ahava”

As a serial entrepreneur, Jamie Hogland lives by the mantra “if it doesn’t exist, let’s start it.” That’s how she ran a nationally-recognized bakery, decided to build a $15 million baseball/softball facility, and, this year, started her own Partner Organization for Momentum called Jewish Mothers of Oregon.

Creating community for families of children with special needs

Amanda has three children with disabilities, including a son who is severely disabled and uses a wheelchair, so she often feels isolated from other moms who don’t understand her challenges. But over the course of the trip, she heard stories from a mother who had lost a child, women dealing with divorce, mothers who were caregivers for their own parents, and moms facing many other difficulties. She understood more deeply that each mother is fighting her own unique battle.

Creating More Spaces for Diverse Jewish Women

Before joining the MOMentum Yearlong Journey, one of Dr. Tameika Minor’s biggest concerns about the trip was whether or not there would be other participants from diverse backgrounds. But when she arrived in Israel, she was surprised to see many different types of Jewish women, from all different countries, different levels of observance, and different backgrounds.

A community food warrior inspired by tikkun olam

It took a MOMentum Trip in 2013 for Danielle Morris to learn that Judaism has a name for the type of work she’s always been passionate about: tikkun olam, or repairing the world.

Passing the baton

At a time when Jewish families craved stability amid uncertainty, Helen solidified Momentum’s status as a global pillar of inspiration and growth. Now, she’s “passing the baton” to Debbie Hochberg, our incoming Board President!

Remembering Sharon Shenker

A Momentum Community Leader who always found time to support others.

Each Day Is a Gift

It takes a village and a LOT of H.P. (Higher Power).

Backseat Dating Advice

“Imagine you meet a guy at a bar, have a couple of drinks, dance, flirt, and invite him back to your place. Things begin to happen, and in the middle, he stops and says, ‘Can I see your bank returns?’”

The Crown

Elizabeth embodied the concept of “duty,” which is not something we speak of these days, at least not in a positive way. Her duty was her commitment to a moral obligation to lead. It is something we could all use a lot more of.