Carmel Valley Women Helping Change the World

The community of Carmel Valley San Diego is filled with great woman who are, on a daily basis, making a difference in the world. The wonderful thing about it is that each are making a difference in their own unique way. Being a woman who is “making a difference in the world,” ranges from a mom who devotes her entire life to raising her kids while maintaining a household, to a non-profit CEO who spends countless hours a day making sure each fundraised dollar is put to great use and reaches the less-fortunate.  Of course, these are just two examples of the type of woman in our community who are changing the world for the better.  That being said, let me share with you two more examples and introduce you to a group of woman living a life outside themselves.

Two individuals who I would like to highlight as woman who have taken the initiative to do good for others, including in our local community, are Carmel Valley residents, Ilana Umansky, OPTIONS Co-Chair, and Laura Tauber, Women’s Philanthropy Board Chair. Along with Lori Polin, Women’s Campaign Chair, Silvana Christy, OPTIONS Co-Char, and Alexandra Hirschhorn, OPTIONS Co-Chair, Ilana and Laura are responsible for organizing an annual event called “OPTIONS, Woman Changing the World.”  The event itself was created to demonstrate the power and influence each woman possesses to change the world in a positive way.

“OPTIONS is about being a part of something bigger than yourself – about participating and getting involved.  And the two event speakers embody what it means to be are inspiring woman.  The event itself is about showing how ordinary people can make a huge impact and difference in other people’s lives,” said Ilana.  Six years ago Ilana moved to Carmel Valley San Diego with her husband and two children.  She quickly found her passion by teaming up with one of the largest philanthropic organizations in the United States, the Jewish Federation.  Since then, she’s gone on to help create similar events on behalf of the organization year-after-year.

Laura Tauber and her husband of 19 years, Brian Tauber, have been Carmel Valley residents for over 14 years.  Together they have three children and have been involved with the Jewish Federation for 8 years.  To be a part of the Federation is an honor and a top priority in the Tauber family.  When I asked Laura to elaborate on what OPTIONS represents to the Jewish community, she stated that “OPTIONS is the one time each year the Jewish women of San Diego come together as a community, and  get behind the incredible work of the Federation. It’s a very powerful feeling to be surrounded by hundreds of women who care and want to ensure, that as a Jewish community, we not only survive but thrive.  This year’s OPTIONS is going to be outstanding. We have two absolutely amazing women coming to share their personal and highly emotional stories. Though very different, each will highlight the incredible impact one individual can make during their lifetime.  The room will be overwhelmed once they hear from these women about their purposeful and inspiring journeys.”

The keynote speakers are both inspiring women who have demonstrated activism, leadership and commitment.

Alina Spaulding, Director of Communications for the American Hebrew Academy, immigrated to this country in 1979 with the help of many Jewish agencies funded by the Jewish Federation dollars. Her parents tried to leave the Former Soviet Union after her father, an Olympic hopeful, was seriously injured. They were granted permission only when the worldwide Jewish community stepped up. Alina’s experience will make you laugh, cry and may even change your life.

Erin Gruwell, Founder of The Freedom Writers Foundation, is an activist and teacher whose steadfast commitment to tolerance and the future of education changed the lives of students already hardened by inner- city life. Using books like Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl, she helped kids rethink their beliefs about themselves and the world around them. Her moving, true- life story was portrayed by Hilary Swank in the film Freedom Writers.

In addition to the guest speakers, Andrea Oster, of La Jolla , will be given the prestigious Anne Ratner Award in recognition of the extraordinary leadership she has brought to Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of San Diego County.

As I’ve always believed, when you’re inspired,  you’re headed in the right direction.  Without a doubt, this event will inspire thousands of women in our communities in the right direction; one of leadership and service.

When:
Thursday, December 1, 2011
5:30 p.m. Registration and Reception
6:15 p.m. Dinner and Program

Where
The Manchester Grand Hyatt, One Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101

Couvert: $100 (fair market value is $100) Dietary laws observed
A minimum contribution of $180 to the 2012 Federation Campaign
(A $36 minimum contribution for guests 21 and younger)

Registration:
Register online at: www.jewishinsandiego.org/options.aspx
Email contact: options@jewishfederationsandiego.org
Call: 858.571.3444

David A. Moya is a community contributor and influencer for positive change. As founder of The Carmel Valley Life he focuses on education, transparency and helping others find a voice for their passion. During his earlier years, he fed his entrepreneurial spirit and founded a company focused on the development of young kids who are committed to peak performance. David went on to pay for his BA in Finance through his real estate business and after graduating flew more than 30 flights to over 10 countries in order to master the art of communication and business.  “Resigning from my previous job to dedicate 100% of my time to The Carmel Valley Life was one of the best decision I’ve ever made.”