When we think about the future of our community, we think about our son Jack — and about the generations who came before us, whose commitment and generosity built our hometown communities and the Jewish community here in Stamford we cherish today.

Molly and I both grew up in New Rochelle, where our families were involved in organizations like UJA and Young Israel of New Rochelle. It is there that our parents nurtured the fundamental belief that the Jewish community needs to stand strong and together, to grow and thrive through challenging times. 

My parents, Joseph and Karen Rafalowicz, have spent their lives devoted to the Jewish community, serving in leadership roles across numerous organizations. Their example instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to pay it forward — a value that continues to guide our family today. Though they live outside Stamford, they remain deeply connected and supportive of our community, sharing in our commitment to its future. 

Molly’s family has deep roots in this community. She and her brother Robbie moved to Stamford as children and their ties have only strengthened since then. Her aunt, Valerie Warmflash, is part of a remarkable four-generation family that continues to live in Stamford. Jonah Schrag, Molly’s uncle, has long been a central figure in the Young Israel of Stamford community. Molly’s brother Robbie Schrag and his wife Danielle are raising their two children, Max and Allen, here in Stamford. Her father, Howard Schrag, is also a proud and active member of the local Jewish community. 

As fate would have it, Molly and I reconnected right here in Stamford while I was managing Six Thirteen Restaurant and catering a Bat Mitzvah at Young Israel. That moment was the beginning of a shared journey rooted in Jewish community and values. Today, we’re proud to give back together at UJF: Molly serves on the NexGen board and I serve as Treasurer on UJF’s executive committee. It’s our hope that our children, too, will carry on this commitment and continue to be part of this vibrant community. 

For us, participating in the Life & Legacy program is about honoring that past and ensuring a vibrant future. We hope others will join us in taking this meaningful step. Together, we can ensure that Jewish life in Stamford remains strong for generations to come.