Sara Esther Crispe
Merion Station, Pennsylvania
How is your Hero working to make the world a better place?
Sara Esther dedicates her life to empowering Jewish women by showing them their value and importance in what they do and who they are. She truly believes in the power of the individual to change the world and feels that education and inspiration is the key. She is the creator and editor of TheJewishWoman.org, the women's site of Chabad.org, which reaches hundreds of thousands of readers. Additionally she travels the world teaching in Jewish communities, college campuses, high schools and even mentoring Bat Mitzvah girls. She can be found at all hours of the day and night responding to her readers who seek her guidance and wisdom. She has literally saved lives through her support and correspondence with those who contact her. Through TheJewishWoman.org she has created a home and community online for Jewish women of all walks of life and does not shy away from dealing with difficult and often ignored topics like abuse or health issues. Her writing is honest, passionate and real, as is her teaching style, and all those who read her pieces or have heard her speak are blown away by her ability to connect with each and every person in an individual way. Her teaching style is extremely accessible no matter what level of observance or understanding someone has who is listening to her. She continues to be an inspiration to everyone who has the privilege of hearing her lectures, and she manages to hold down a full-time job while also being a supportive wife, devoted mother and volunteering at our shul.
How has your Hero impacted your life and inspired you?
I met Sara Esther though a class she taught and then had the privilege of learning with her weekly. Her teachings have transformed my connection to Judaism and understanding of my significance as a Jewish woman. In our community she volunteers her time teaching, mentoring women, counseling, and always has an open home. She and her family serve as a bridge for so many diverse groups of people who are all drawn to her magnetic personality and ability to connect to, inspire and be inspired by all she meets. She is very Chesed in her demeanor and is an ambassador to the greater community opening up her home to people for dinners and deep conversations. She is a treasured friend. I can't think of a more deserving person to receive this award, recognition and designation.