As featured in the April 8, 2024 Edition of Jewish News
Rose Frances Glasser was a living legacy. Her work within the Hampton Roads and global Jewish community exemplified her commitment to its continuity, from being one of the founding board members of the JCC's Newport Avenue campus in Norfolk, VA, to helping to establish the Beth Sholom Home of Eastern Virginia - all locally - to volunteering in Israel for the three consecutive winters after her beloved husband Bernard passed away, she worked tirelessly to promote Jewish community and values.
Inspired by Rose Frances's example, the Glasser family has embraced its responsibility to actively engage with Jewish life and culture. Michael and Lori Glasser, along with their sons Bern, Jake, and Ross, and Jake's wife Jessica (Jess), who has been a wonderful addition to the family and just as committed to the preservation of Jewish values, are deeply invested in nurturing legacy-rich in giving, learning, and community involvement. As the matriarch, Lori has been instrumental in this journey, and her devotion to her sons’ education and Jewish community involvement is a testament to her commitment. From their formative years at the Hebrew Academy of Tidewater, now known as Strelitz International Academy, to various community service projects, and immersion in history and heritage, Lori has not only talked about and taught Jewish values but also practiced them, thereby continuing the philanthropic legacy initiated by Rose Frances.
The Glasser family continues to seek innovative ways to make an impact and launch initiatives to connect younger generations with Jewish culture. For instance, in partnership with the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater (UJFT), the Richard S. Glasser Family Foundation has been pivotal in supporting Pop-up Shabbat programs for young adults and the family's dedication to Hillel organizations at various universities. The Glasser family has also been proactive by engaging with the Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF) to establish lasting resources that support programs and organizations that will engage the youth, make traditions accessible, and ensure the perpetuation of Jewish identity.
The dedication of the Glasser family to their community, passed down through generations, has instilled in Bern, Jake, Ross, and Jess a profound understanding of their critical role in sustaining Jewish life. Through numerous trips to Israel, some with their parents and some on their own, and local community engagement, they have recognized the importance of supporting Jewish life, a commitment only deepened by recent attacks on Israel. This underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community and the necessity for continued vigilance.
Today, Lori and Michael are confident that their approach to active engagement and leading by example will enrich their children's lives and inspire future generations to uphold the legacy of supporting Jewish life. Although not yet grandparents, they are reassured by the knowledge that the seeds they have planted will flourish in their children's children, contributing to a thriving and sustainable Jewish future.
The Glasser family is one of many Jewish families committed to preserving and enhancing Jewish life traditions and protecting Israel through action. Lori and Michael, Bern, Jake, Jess, and Ross aim to inspire a collective movement towards a thriving and sustainable Jewish future together with organizations like TJF. The Glasser family is laying the groundwork for a future committed to preserving Jewish life and values today and in the future.