When Rachel Heckler moved back to the Boston area after college, a high school friend introduced her to CJP.

“Being new to Sudbury and a new mother, I was happy to meet other women and feel like an ‘adult,’” Rachel says. “My parents and grandparents had always supported their federations, so when I heard more about CJP’s mission and learned about Women's Philanthropy, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.”  

Rachel participated in a pilot Leadership Development Series in the Metrowest Area, and she eventually joined a Women’s Philanthropy learning circle. From there, she transitioned into leadership. For the past three years, she has served on the Women’s Philanthropy Executive Board as a Vice President, Metrowest.

Through her time with Women’s Philanthropy, Rachel says she’s expanded her Jewish community and made many new friends through events, learning, and cooking.

“I have met so many amazing women from different generations,” she says. “It has really been a blessing for me.”

As she steps down from the Executive Board, Rachel plans to continue her involvement within Women’s Philanthropy and CJP. She encourages others to do the same.

“Your involvement can be as little or big as you want it to be, but do what you can,” Rachel says. “You are not only helping others, but you will feel the biggest reward — whether you are donating, listening to a speaker at an event, or serving on a committee — because you are embracing tikkun olam. There is truly no greater gift for yourself or the community.”