Change:  avoidable; inevitable; desirable; or, as the ancient Greek Heraclitus philosophized, life’s only constant?

There are many attitudes toward change, and we see all of them at the Jewish Federation. 

Some fear change and cling to the adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” 

But Dale Carnegie would rebut, “Take a chance!  All life is a chance. The man who goes the furthest is generally the one who is willing to do and dare. The ‘sure thing’ boat never gets far from shore.” 

And, as John Shedd wrote, “A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” 

Will Rogers would appear to support Carnegie and Shedd saying, “Even if you’re on the right track, if you just sit there, you’ll get run over,” clearly implying that change is necessary. 

Personally, I am in the “change is good” camp.  I share Jack Dixon’s philosophy that “If you focus on results, you will never change.  If you focus on change, you will get results.”  It is with this sentiment that I am excited to share that our very own KB Goodkin has been selected as one of only 52 professionals from around the country to participate in UpStart’s first National Change Accelerator cohort. 

The goal of Upstart is “to provide a stronger lab, launch pad, and support system for anyone willing to move the Jewish community forward.”  Their mission is “to inspire and empower leaders to dream, build, and grow bold initiatives that enhance the vitality of Jewish life.  Together we’re creating a more just, vibrant, and inclusive future.” 

Over the next six months, KB and her cohort “will learn the skills and tools they need to meet their communities’ rapidly evolving needs, and gain a community of practice with which to brainstorm, take their initiatives to the next level, and create the Jewish community of the future.” 

This is a big deal.  It is a big deal for KB, a big deal for our Federation, and a big deal for our entire Jewish community.  Mazel tov, KB!  I can’t wait to see where we’re going from here. 

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