Emily Zappa
Chandler, Arizona
How is your Hero working to make the world a better place?
Emily Zappa worked with a dedicated group of Jewish families in the East Valley of Phoenix to create a safe, nurturing environment for the Jewish youth to learn and grow. When faced with the reality of imminent closure of the East Valley's only Jewish Day School, Emily worked tirelessly to create a 501C3 ensuring families had a Jewish option for school. She continues to work hard to ensure the relationship with the JCC is a positive one. Families more than ever are feeling the financial strains of sending children to private school. Emily has taken a pay cut from her less than competitive salary, to make sure other families are able to continue to receive financial aid and stay at the school. Emily has children of her own; one that attends the JCC, one that attends the Day School. She often has to schlep to late meetings with children in tow due to the distance she travels daily to get to and from work. She is dedicated, and the hardest working person I know. I am certain if awarded the grant, the first thing she would do is hand the check over to the Day School. There is no greater definition of a Mensch.
How has your Hero impacted your life and inspired you?
Emily impacts my life and inspires me daily. She is always positive in spite of dealing with situations that the most giving people would consider a challenge. Emily finds ways to make the school a welcoming home away from home for all the families we serve. She balances the needs of the Day School board, the parents, and most importantly the students. She is constantly looking for ways to improve the Day School, and do the work of the executive director, while looking for ways to instill a love of learning and Tikun' Olam in the children and community.