I have been giving a scholarship in my dear sister Judy’s memory for over 10 years. It has been a very special way to honor and to remember our beloved sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Every year the scholarship event has been held either on, or near, her birthday. It makes it even more meaningful to have us all gathered to share in such a way as to present a scholarship to a deserving young lady who exemplifies the qualities that Judy possessed.

Judy was very much interested in making a difference, especially in the lives of children and those with special needs. She received her degree in music therapy and was focused on enhancing the lives of those who had their own unique challenges. therefore the Alterman Fund Scholarship is given to an applicant that is pursuing a degree/career in a field that focuses on these same ideals.

I want to thank NCJW for providing an opportunity each year to honor Judy.

The NCJW Colorado Section Scholarship – NCJW Colorado Section, Donor

The National Council of Jewish Women, Colorado Section Scholarship is granted by the section itself to women who have demonstrated the values of NCJW.  Recipients of this scholarship demonstrate a connection to Jewish values and a desire to volunteer and advocate in their community for issues that improve the quality of life for women, children and families and safeguard individual rights and freedoms.

The Prottaska Fund Scholarship – Hinda Buchbinder, Donor

The Prottaska Fund was created in 2007 and originally focused on providing advanced educational training for single women with children living in Israel. We educated several young women with 1-3 children who were divorced and looking to better themselves. Most were trained as administrators for charitable groups or bookkeepers for small businesses.

Two years ago, we decided to use the fund for NCJW scholarships, giving preference to candidates whose narratives are articulate and moving and who demonstrate financial need vs focusing on solely GPA.

The Sue Kaufman Memorial Scholarship – Mitzi Townshend, Donor

Today is the day that I celebrate Mother’s Day!! For over 20 years I have proudly given a scholarship in memory of my Mom, Sue Kaufman. To me there is no greater honor one can receive than to be recognized for the good deeds you did in life, long after you have passed. It is my honor to continue this tradition for my mom.

Mom was a tireless volunteer for this organization even though she had many health issues that often made it difficult for her.  Mom got sick when I was 10 years old. She suffered from chronic asthma most of her life, and sadly the steroid drugs used to control her breathing took their toll on the rest of her body resulting in extreme osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.  She was only 64 years old when she died.

My mother never graduated from college but made the most of things by being a good wife; a great mother, a loving grandmother, a selfless volunteer and an especially – being a great friend. She was my best friend and though I did not know it at the time, she was also the best trainer of compassionate care-taking a girl could ask for.  I started giving these scholarships out after her death in 2002 and It has been my greatest honor every year to connect my mother’s name to helping these young Jewish women, as I know their stories would have touched her heart as they have touched mine.

My intention in giving this Memorial scholarship out every year is simply to inspire my recipient to pursue her dreams and to remember to give back along the way. I look for someone that my Mom or I have a commonality with. A girl that does not let challenges stop her from pursuing her future endeavors.