Philanthropy has long been a cornerstone of the Kleinman family, tracing back to 1905 when Gittel Cassiff Fox (z”l) emigrated from Ukraine with her two children. According to family lore, Gittel was a descendant of a disciple of the Baal Shem Tov, the founder of Hasidic Judaism. Gittel’s deep belief in charity and helping those in need was evident: her kitchen pantry was lined with tzedakah boxes.

Gittel’s daughter, Ida Fox Gladstein (z”l), and her husband Milton (z”l) continued this tradition by establishing two charitable funds at JCF in the late 1990s, instilling the family’s philanthropic values in their sons, Ed and Steve Kleinman.

Ed Kleinman recalls Gittel telling him, “When you die, the only thing you leave is your name.” That sentiment inspired him to open two funds at the Foundation in his name. Among the beneficiaries is Disabled American Veterans in Rocky Hill, CT, which is a heartfelt tribute to his father, a proud veteran of World War II.

“My life has been a blessing,” explained Ed, a retired scientist from Pfizer who now volunteers his time and talent working in chemical education. “I want to be remembered as being loyal to my parents, and grateful to the people in my life and the institutions I’ve attended. I want to pay it forward.”

Steve Kleinman guided Ed through the process of charitable estate planning, including leveraging tax advantages* by using his Required Minimum Distribution from his retirement account to establish his Designated Fund at the Foundation.

“Partnering with the Foundation was a match made in heaven for my charitable estate plan,” said Ed. “I have enormous peace of mind that my estate will be managed wisely and used to serve my charitable interests in perpetuity.”

For Ed, tzedakah is more than charity. It represents righteousness, a cherished family legacy, and an obligation to live as a loyal and compassionate human being.

*This information should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice.