By Donald H. Harrison
SAN DIEGO – Clothing outsold books at a charity sale conducted Sunday, Sept. 10, respectively by the Sisterhood and the Men’s Club of Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Proceeds and surplus books went to a variety of good causes.
The Sisterhood raised approximately $2,500 through the sale of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, according to Shayna Kaufmann, who co-chaired the clothing sale with Barbara Sperling.
“Even better, the event was the epitome of tikkun olam!” Kaufmann commented.
“Representatives from the Foundation for Women Warriors (an organization that helps women in the military transition to civilian life), a Tijuana orphanage, Father Joe’s Villages, and Sharia’s Closet (they partner with 30 charities offering free clothes to the needy) picked up a ton of beautiful clothes.”
“We have a dozen boxes packed for Jewish Family Service to pick up, and I am dropping off more at G’mach (a Jewish free store for anyone from the tribe in need),” Kaufmann added.
“There were also beautiful, emotional moments – a handshake between our Navy veteran Charlotte with the two women from the women’s veteran organization) and when Shamine Linton (the founder of Sharia’s Closet) told us about the inspiration of the store being based on almost losing her daughter Sharia at age 5,” Kaufmann said. “This propelled her towards a life of gratitude and service. It was amazing seeing their truck full of clothes. And, of course, watching the excited faces of people when they found something they loved.”
Phil Lorang, organizer of the book sale sponsored by the Men’s Club, said approximately 100 of the 1000 books donated by members of the congregation were sold. Buyers were permitted to set their own price, resulting in proceeds of $264 in the first phase of the charitable event.
In the second phase of the operation, Lorang said, the remaining 900 books will be donated to such organizations as Goodwill and Friends of the Library.
“People had a good time,” Lorang said of the volunteers who worked the book sale.
Barbara Sperling, who co-chaired the Sisterhood function, commented: “We realized our mission was much more than just making money for our organization. Volunteering means camaraderie with people you enjoy being with, finding a reason and purpose to give instead of receiving, and feeling appreciated for the time and talent that is given.”
“Volunteerism is the heart and soul of our synagogue,” Sperling added.
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Donald H. Harrison is editor emeritus of San Diego Jewish World. He may be contacted via donald.harrison@sdjewishworld.com