- Named Endowment Funds
The Benjamin and Elizabeth Leavitt Fund provides financial support for the comprehensive social services that JFCS offers to Russian emigres, helping them build successful new lives in the Bay Area.
Shared from the Heart
My sister and I were truly blessed with devoted and loving parents. By helping other emigres to increase the quality of their lives, Barry and I are honoring them and the values they passed on to those who were fortunate enough to know them.—Barbara Kay
The Benjamin and Elizabeth Leavitt Fund was established by Barbara and Barry Kay in loving memory of Barbara’s parents.
Born in 1903 in Plissa, Wilna Geberne, Benjamin Leavitt emigrated from Russia with his parents when he was 12. The family settled in the small Connecticut town of Fitchville, but eventually Benjamin moved to Bridgeport and went into business as one of the original owners of a Hertz franchise.
Barbara’s mother, Elizabeth, affectionately called Betty, was born in Bridgeport to Hungarian emigres in 1917. She and Benjamin married in December 1942. They eventually had two daughters, Dorothy and Barbara. Barbara has fond memories of both her father and her mother, a full-time homemaker, as parents who consistently provided emotional support, recognition of their daughters’ achievements, and unquestioning love.
Remembering her parents and the hardships they endured during their lifetimes, Barbara wanted to make a tangible difference in the lives of emigres new to America through this named continuity fund at JFCS.
If you would like to start a Named Endowment Fund at JFCS, please contact [email protected] or 415-449-3858.