For Ellen Kushner, playing an active role within the Jewish Federation of Broward County is ingrained in her blood. As a member of a family who has always been very active within the Jewish community, it was second nature for her to give back and become a dynamic component to the Federation’s Women’s Division. A proud Lion, Ellen sits on the Women’s Division board and holds the position of the Lion of Judah chair. She was first introduced to the Jewish Federation of Broward County by her cousin who was very involved and after attending one luncheon, she was hooked.

But there was a moment long before that introductory lunch that made her want to become involved in the Jewish community.
“I remember being at my grandfather’s funeral as a kid. We met with the Rabbi and he was going on and on about what a great man my grandfather was. He had been giving tzedakah for years, anonymously, and none of us had ever known. This really impacted me,” Ellen said. Then her uncle, who was very involved with Federation in New York, passed away. He left money to her and she used the money to become a Lion and honor his memory here in Broward County. Ever since then, she has enjoyed the friendships she has made, the camaraderie she feels, and the “Jewish vision” that is shared by those she knows in the Federation.

A role model for her three children, Ellen is more than just the Lion of Judah chair. She has her own interior design firm, E&A Designs, where she works with high end residential design as well as corporate. Along side a full time job, she is very involved with The University School where her two oldest children attend and is a member of YPO, Young President’s Organization, whose mission is to have better leaders through education and an ideas exchange.
Ellen actively participates in food drives and the WECARE Food Pantry. She knows how important it is to give back and hopes her children are learning strong values from her. As a committed volunteer, Ellen understands the benefits of giving to the Broward Jewish Federation, whether it is through monetary donations or voluntary work.

“I wish more people understood the Jewish Federation like I do. It is an organization that provides assistance for all Jews in Broward County, whether they realize it or not,” said Ellen. “When you give, you receive as well. And, if you’re going to give, give Jewishly”

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