December 2019

Each month our Women of Impact profile features a local woman, nominated by a local community member, who is making an impact in our community. For this month’s profile, we spoke with Tracy Taback, who is Federation’s Volunteer Engagement Chair and the Jewish Community Relations Council’s Social Action Chair. She was nominated by Susannah MacNeil and Rachel Berezin, Federation's Vice President of Marketing and Communications and Vice President of Development. 

What inspired you to get involved in our Jewish community?

I’m from South Windsor originally, and when I first moved back to Connecticut, I was in search of a peer group who shared my desire to be involved in the Jewish community. I looked to Federation, where I started my leadership involvement through the Frank Stavis Leadership Program. 

Growing up, Judaism and philanthropy were strong values in my family. I have a passion for the Jewish community and our people’s resiliency. Both of my maternal grandparents were Holocaust survivors — knowing their history makes me want to work even harder to ensure that the Jewish people not only survive but thrive. 

What have you done to make a positive impact?

My most significant current positive impact is my role in Dignity Grows, an initiative that provides menstrual and toiletry supplies for those in need. Until I started doing research for this project, it really didn’t occur to me how fortunate I am to be able to buy what I need on a monthly basis. The number of women and girls we have helped as well as the number of people who have made donations and come out to our packing parties absolutely astounds me! I’m proud to be a member of a community like ours that sees a need and acts on it.

What was your biggest challenge, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I believe the Jewish people are a resilient people; I am as well. My resiliency shines through in everything I do. In my mind, there is simply no other option. One of my major accomplishments is showing the younger generation that even though we may not be able to donate large amounts of money, we always have something to give simply by volunteering our time and effort. It has always been a vital mission of mine to help make the younger generation realize that we can make a significant impact. 

What role has Judaism played in your life?

To put it succinctly, Judaism is a central piece of my identity, as well as that of my family. It’s at the forefront of everything I do. 

Is there any advice you’d like to share with other women?

My involvement with Women of Impact has really made me realize that as women, we need to value our female friendships. It’s incredibly important to have a network of female connections, women you can count on and who deeply understand each other. These bonds are pivotal — cherish and nurture them.