The Kaufman Family: (l-r) Asher, Kostin, Seth, Blythe and Alina
We came to the area for dental and medical training, respectively, and we knew almost immediately that this was where we wanted to raise our family. Though we are an interfaith couple, both our religions are deeply important to us. As Blythe had already been very active in her church during dental school, I knew I wanted to give my children a Jewish upbringing as well. Since the Hartford area has such a diversity and density of Jewish influence, we knew we would not want to relocate anywhere else.
Our youngest child had his Bar Mitzvah at Congregation Beth Israel (CBI) two years ago, and has been a regular for Shabbat services, Torah study and religious school. Our older two children were raised Catholic, but have enjoyed holidays and celebrations at CBI as well. The values of community, caring, spirituality and love of knowledge have all been nurtured for our children here.
CBI has given us so much and has given our family so much of its identity. For all the time we spend enjoying CBI, our contribution seemed like a bargain. We hope to help extend that experience for generations to come.