Looking for a Jewish cause and connection, Hadassah seemed like a natural fit to San Diego resident Marsha Starr. The only problem? There wasn’t a group in her neighborhood of Del Cerro. So she started one.
“I was highly motivated to help Israel, and I know that’s what Hadassah does,” said Starr, founding president of the new Miriam group in San Diego.
The first meeting, which drew a handful of women, was held in Starr’s living room. But now, through word of mouth and neighborhood messaging apps, the group has grown to over 90 members in less than a year.
“The women are so compatible,” Starr said. “What’s heartwarming for me is seeing what bonds have developed. It’s really filled the need that I see for these women to have a Jewish fix, or Jewish connection, and, frankly, for me too.”
In October, the group gathered at a lakeside restaurant to sign their new charter. Hadassah Southern California President Audrey Levine installed the Miriam group’s president and treasurer and then asked if anyone else wanted to take a role. To her surprise, nine women stood up and walked to the front of the room, volunteering to serve on the board.
“I know this group is destined to make an incredible impact,” Levine said. “To have 90 members at the time of their chartering speaks to the desire of women to seek community and help make a difference.”
And the group continues to grow; four new women registered to attend the group’s Hanukkah party in December, and plans for future events are underway.
“I want everyone to feel they have a place,” Starr said.
These new women join with nearly 300,000 members, supporters and male Associates, spread out across 700 units in all 50 states.
Starr’s long-term goal for the Miriam group? “To have fun along the way as we support Israel and Hadassah’s mission,” she said.