Slade Gleaton
Charleston, South Carolina
How is your Hero working to make the world a better place?
Charleston's Jewish community may be the oldest continuous community in the country, and consists of interwoven lives and relationships extending many generations. Divisions and conflicts in practice have plagued our community for as long as anyone can remember, however, the current disharmony in our community may be the straw that breaks the camels back. If you can sense the importance, it is because it is true. The survival of Jewish continuity in Charleston is in jeopardy, and Slade - along with less than a dozen dedicated individuals - are inspiring us and leading us in more promising direction. May it be that we are blessed with unity and prosperity that both Slade and the committee are driving for. 25k is a tremendous boost to their efforts and the systems for resolving our issues. In any event, may they all be blessed, for they do deserve, rewards beyond any available in this world.
How has your Hero impacted your life and inspired you?
I appreciate Slade even more every time I see him on Shabbas. His optimistic attitude and genuine character are obvious and empowering to those who he encounters. I've seen him exert his time and effort time and again to building our community, contributing to services, engaging his children with a vibrant Jewish upbringing, and consistently stepping up to face difficult and necessary challenges despite the existing demands of parenthood, work, and other obligations. Without a doubt, he is a extraordinary example of a Mensch. If he were to win, I know that the 25,000 will be well invested for the prosperity of our community.