Taft partner Jill Friedman Helfman was honored on Nov. 18 as a “Difference Maker” by Cleveland Jewish News. The honor spotlights individuals who embody tikkun olam – repair of the world – and encourage it among others. The inaugural class honored 36 Difference Makers, in homage to a Jewish legend called Lamed Vavnik, which states that there are 36 people in every generation who are righteous, and the world depends upon their existence.

Helfman was recognized for making an invaluable contribution to the betterment of the Jewish community, as profiled in the Nov. 16 issue of the Cleveland Jewish News [here].  She was heralded for co-chairing a benefit that raised $350,000 for University Hospitals’ Partnership for Families. In this role, she led efforts to provide an opportunity for couples who would not otherwise be afforded the chance to have a family. Helfman is also an active member of Mogan David Adom, which helps raise money for Israel’s ambulance, blood-services and disaster relief.