Devora Wilhelm
Portland, Oregon
How is your Hero working to make the world a better place?
Devora founded a Jewish Day school that leaves no Jewish child behind regardless of ability to pay. She does whatever it takes to make sure every Jewish child she encounters has a Jewish education. At times at tremendous personal sacrifice she has kept the school running. She has consistently provided education not only for the children but their entire family. Her passion, long-range view and true concern for every Jew are the engine of her being. She gives people opportunities they wouldn't have whether by inviting them in or paying their way. She has continually given us hope and has taught us it is our role to have hope in the world. We have been inspired by her countless quiet acts of kindness and her willingness to put herself on the line for the greater good. Down to earth, non-judgmental, her first concern is how to help. There is no one more loyal and generous than her. As one school parent said to me, Devora understands what really matters and that's what the kids at the school learn. She is constantly doing things for people behind the scenes. She is humble, committed, and a pillar of the community. Without the perspective she brings to the table whether at a Federation meeting or one-on-one with a fellow Jew, Jewish Portland wouldn't be what it is today. The big heroic splash she makes in Portland is made up of countless individual moments and drops of her sweat and tears on our behalf.
How has your Hero impacted your life and inspired you?
Without judgments, Devora allows people to be where they are so they can grow in their own way. She does whatever it takes to make sure every Jewish child she encounters has a Jewish education. She gives people opportunities they wouldn't have whether by inviting them in or paying their way. She has continually given us hope and has taught us it is our role to have hope in the world. We have been inspired by her countless quiet acts of kindness and her willingness to put herself on the line for the greater good.