From Hausner to Friendship Circle: Alumni Giving Back

At Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School, students learn the values of kindness, leadership, and community service—lessons that often extend far beyond their years in the classroom. For alumni Ella Nuchi (‘22), Tania Troper (‘22), and Jonah Frenkel (‘21), these values played a role in their decision to volunteer with the Bay Area Friendship Circle, an organization that fosters friendships between teens and children with special needs.

Each of them found their own path to Friendship Circle. Ella was drawn to working with children and wanted to make a positive impact. “Hausner taught me to use my morals to do what is right and my gifts to help my community,” she shares. Tania discovered the program through family friends and was drawn to its warm and inclusive environment. “It seemed like such a meaningful and kind thing to do,” she says. Jonah first heard about Friendship Circle from his Hausner classmates, and his mother encouraged him to get involved. “I care a lot about making sure every kid can have fun, so I wanted to help provide love and support for kids with special needs.”

Their experiences at Hausner shaped how they approach their work at Friendship Circle. Ella sees the connection clearly. “Hausner instilled in me a strong sense of values and the responsibility to give back.” Tania emphasizes the importance of relationships. “Hausner taught me about kindness and how to build strong connections, which is at the heart of what we do at Friendship Circle.” Jonah reflects on the Jewish teachings that influenced him. “We learned about the nefesh—the soul—and how every soul is valuable and deserving of love. That stuck with me and motivates me to make sure every child feels included and supported.”

Even as they move forward, their memories of Hausner remain special. For Ella, Kabbalat Shabbat stands out. “Atara had a way of making everyone want to participate. It made me feel so connected to the community.” Tania remembers the energy of the annual Purim festival. “It was always so fun and filled with joy!” Jonah recalls a creative classroom experience from Kindergarten. “Our room was transformed into an airplane for our ‘Israel trip.’ We had makeshift passports, Hebrew lessons, and even cupcakes. Even though I never got to visit Israel with Hausner because of COVID, that experience helped shape my love for Israel and my Jewish identity.”

Through their volunteer work, Ella, Tania, and Jonah continue to live the values they learned at Hausner—kindness, inclusion, and community. Their dedication to Friendship Circle is a testament to the power of a meaningful education that extends beyond school and into the world.

Interested in learning more about the Friendship Circle? Visit their website www.bayareafc.org.