Client Spotlight: Tree of Life

On October 27, 2018, 11 people from three congregations were killed while worshiping at the Tree of Life synagogue building in Pittsburgh. 

Last year, the synagogue announced that world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind would reimagine the physical building in which the attack occurred.

Then, just last week, it announced that the building will house an entirely new organization, simply called Tree of Life, that will be much more than a synagogue. The new Tree of Life encompasses a museum, education, events, outreach programs, and a memorial. The Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh is merging into the new nonprofit as well.

The aim of all these activities is encompassed in the organization’s vision: Ending Antisemitism—Together. Partnerships are key because antisemitism isn’t just a Jewish problem.

As a Pennsylvanian and as a Jew, the tragedy of 10/27 hit very close to home for me. So when Lipton Strategies, the consulting firm overseeing the Tree of Life campaign and guiding the formation of the new entity, asked for my help with a case for support and other communications, I couldn’t say no.

For several months, I worked closely with the Lipton Strategies team, campaign leadership, survivors and victims' family members, and other stakeholders to craft a mission and vision for the new organization and answer key questions that must be addressed in a case for support.

It is an enormous honor to have helped facilitate the creation of a bold new organization that will educate and inspire individuals and communities from across our nation to recognize and stand up against antisemitism.