The best things in life are free. Like advice on legacy and philanthropic planning from the professionals at Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF), free to current and future fundholders like Edie Schlain. Her story is one of commitment, legacy, and the power of giving. Growing up in Norfolk, Edie’s life was deeply entwined with the Jewish community. From her early days at the JCC to her active involvement in local congregations, her journey has been marked by a profound dedication to tzedakah, a value that has guided her every step.
Edie’s career took her from the familiarity of Norfolk to the bustling avenues of Philadelphia, where she honed her skills as a buyer for a major retail chain. But even as her career flourished, her heart remained anchored in her community and the lessons of her youth. This enduring commitment led Edie to make a decision that would extend her impact far beyond her lifetime: establishing a fund with the Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF).
“I’ve always believed in the power of giving,” Edie says, reflecting on her decision. “You can’t take it with you, but you can certainly ensure it goes a long way in doing good.” Her fund, carefully crafted to support eight organizations close to her heart, is a testament to her belief that we all have the power to make a lasting difference.
Edie established a legacy fund with the Tidewater Jewish Foundation through the Life & Legacy Program where at least 50% of her legacy gift will go to Jewish causes. This is more than a financial transaction—it’s a pledge, an assurance that her commitment to the community will endure. “We accumulate so much in life, but in the end, we can’t take it with us. What we can do is leave something behind that speaks of who we were and what we believed in,” she shares. Edie’s commitment to her community and her role in stewardship extends into deep concern for the next generation’s engagement. In her eight years as president of a local congregation, Edie has witnessed a reluctance among younger individuals to step into leadership and philanthropy roles, often citing busy family lives. “It’s a different mindset now, a different time,” Edie muses. Yet, she recalls that when she was a young professional with a career, simultaneously being a wife and mom, she and her husband always found a way to balance work, family, and service, instilling these values in their son amidst his many activities.
This shift in generational engagement is precisely why Edie believes in the power of setting up funds with TJF. It’s a proactive step, not only to support the community today but to safeguard its future. “It’s not about how wealthy you are,” Edie clarifies. “I’ve seen many who aren’t wealthy give generously. They just planned.” Her insight is a call to action, emphasizing that with thoughtful planning, anyone can contribute to the continuity and flourishing of Jewish life and values, ensuring that organizations and causes that matter continue to receive support, regardless of the changing tides of generational involvement.
Edie’s story is not just one of philanthropy but also of inspiration. It’s a call to action for each of us to consider how we can use our resources, whether current or future, to build a legacy that resonates with our values and visions. “It’s about making a difference that lasts,” Edie emphasizes. “It’s about ensuring that the values we cherish, the community we love, carry on. That’s the true wealth we leave behind.”
Through TJF, Edie’s commitment will continue to support and strengthen the Jewish community for generations to come, proving that anyone can make a meaningful contribution to the future.
This feature can be viewed in the Tidewater Jewish Foundation's 2023 Impact Report.