Robert and Phyllis Wolff found a win-win way to honor a loved one and benefit Hadassah through a charitable gift that boosts their income.
When Robert Wolff attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in the 1960s, he was trained to serve—including at his future mother-in-law’s catering company.
As Robert tells the story, “While at West Point, I met my wife, Phyllis Halpern, at the Army-Navy gymnastics meet at Annapolis. Her mother, Marion Halpern (z”l), was a kosher caterer (Marion’s Custom Catering) serving many synagogues in the Washington Metro area. When I visited Phyllis on weekends, there was always an event, so in order to see Phyllis, I joined the family working in the kitchen.”
During those trips, Robert learned about Marion’s involvement with Hadassah alongside her friend Jennie Senzel, the regional director of Hadassah at the time. Phyllis and Robert were inspired by Hadassah’s world-class hospitals and programs for youth in Israel.
After marrying, Robert served our country as an engineer. Following nine years on active duty, they settled in Potomac, Maryland. Robert began a civilian career with the government and several nonprofit organizations, while Phyllis began her career as an interior designer.
Today, the Wolffs enjoy retirement and giving back.
Since 2006, they have volunteered at the West Point Jewish Chapel, curating the space and ensuring cadets and visitors enjoy meaningful services, meals and activities. They’ve also chosen to support organizations financially, including setting up a charitable gift annuity with Hadassah in honor of Phyllis’s mother and her best friend.
“Hadassah was so important to my mother and Jennie, so making this gift was the perfect way to honor them,” Phyllis said.
Robert added, “It feels good to make a gift in our lifetime, receive some income and know the rest of the gift will be given to Hadassah, too.”
It’s truly a gift that will serve many people, for many years to come.
With a charitable gift annuity, you support Hadassah now and later. Contact Planned Giving & Estates at (800) 428-8884 or giving@hadassah.org for more information about the benefits of this gift that gives back to you.