Guest of honor

 Risë and Harvey Kaufmann exemplify what it means to be true partners to Kulanu. Their dedication, generosity, and countless hours of service have made them an invaluable part of the Kulanu family.

Risë has served as Journal Chair for every Kulanu dinner, working tirelessly, often late into the night, to ensure that every advertisement is placed and every detail is accounted for. Her commitment extends throughout the year as she volunteers at the Kulanu Community Fair, overseeing the Advanced Sponsorship Table Check-In, helps maintain and update Kulanu's mailing list, and continually encourages community engagement and support for Kulanu events.

Harvey has been Kulanu's trusted printer for more than 20 years. His partnership goes far beyond printing. He carefully reviews materials, offers valuable suggestions, and consistently helps Kulanu meet its deadlines, no matter how last-minute the request. He goes above and beyond to ensure that every piece is just right, treating Kulanu's projects with the same care and dedication as his own.

Both involved in the printing business, Risë and Harvey share a strong commitment to family and community. Harvey carries on a family printing legacy that began in Frankfurt, Germany, before the war. In 1945, his father and uncle established Kaufmann Bros. in New York City, where the business has remained in the same location for more than 80 years.

Married for 40 years, Risë and Harvey are the proud parents of three married children, Brittany and Evan, Dylan and Maya and Shannon and Ben, and grandparents to six beautiful grandchildren, Rory Pauline (4), Hailey Margot (3), (Students in Yeshiva of Flatbush), Levi Jace (4), (Student at HAFTR ), Avery Brooks (16 mo.), Richard Bram (14 mo.) and Blaire Summer (11 mo.)

Their connection to Kulanu began through their nephew and cousin, Garrick, who started as a student and has remained part of the Kulanu family ever since. Risë, Harvey, and all three of their children volunteered at Kulanu Community Fair and wherever else they were needed.

For Risë, giving back is a family tradition, inspired by generations before her who demonstrated the importance of supporting their schools, shuls, and community organizations. Through their unwavering commitment, Risë and Harvey embody the true meaning of partnership. Kulanu is fortunate to have their dedication, expertise, and friendship, and is proud to recognize them with the Partnership Award.

Amy and Donny Bodner are dedicated members of the community whose connection to Kulanu began with good friends, a memorable country music-themed dinner, and a shared love of giving back. 

Donny is the Managing Partner of Bodner & Morse LLP, an audit and consulting firm specializing in nonprofit organizations. Amy has been an employee at HAFTR for 20 years, beginning as a second-grade teacher and now serving as Coordinator of Operations & Admissions. They have three children, Emma, Jolie, and Sammy. 

The Bodners are actively involved in their community at YILC, where Donny serves as Vice President and Gabbai, a role he has held for nearly 15 years, and Amy serves as Youth Chairperson. 

Their Kulanu story began at the unforgettable Denim & Diamonds dinner at The Mansion in 2017. They instantly loved the relaxed atmosphere, country music, line dancing, and, of course, the wine! What began as a fun night out soon grew into a genuine appreciation for Kulanu’s mission and the passion behind its work. 

Through their close friendship with Robbie and Tamar Scharf and their relationships with Marty, Melodie, and Jordan Scharf, Kulanu has become an important part of their lives. Over the years, they have attended Kulanu dinners and fairs, growing ever more connected to an organization that means so much to their dear friends and the broader community. 

When they aren't spending time with family and friends, Amy can be found enjoying country music, while Donny is cheering on the Mets or coaching Sammy's Little League team and happily tolerating Amy's musical choices! 

Amy and Donny are proud to support Kulanu and its mission of creating opportunities, inclusion, and meaningful lives for individuals with disabilities.

Tamar and Robert Scharf are dedicated to family, community, and chesed, values inspired by their parents and reflected in their longstanding commitment to giving back.

Robert grew up in Lawrence and is the oldest third-generation member of his family to work in their real estate management business. He serves as Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees at HAFTR, where he has served on the Executive Board for six years, including as Financial Secretary from 2020 to 2024. He is also the Vice President of YILC and a gabbai in the main shul on Shabbos. Tamar, a former nurse, serves as Co-Chair of YILC’s Youth Committee. Inspired by her mother’s compassion and dedication to chesed, Tamar has always believed in giving back to the community.

Tamar and Robert are proud parents of their four children: Megan, a freshman at the University of Michigan, Sloane, Parker, and Tyler, who all attend HAFTR.

Kulanu holds a special place in the Scharfs’ hearts through Robert’s brother, Jordan, who was among Kulanu’s first graduating class and remains involved with the organization. Their personal connection has inspired a deep love for Kulanu and a commitment to its mission. Tamar has co-chaired Kulanu’s Denim and Diamonds event with Amy Bodner and introduced Kulanu to Amy and Donny Bodner, helping strengthen the organization’s community relationships.

Together, Tamar and Robert hope to be part of the next generation of leadership, helping guide Kulanu toward an even brighter future. Their dedication reflects the values they learned from their parents and their belief that giving back is not simply an obligation, but a way of life. Through their family, professional endeavors, and community leadership, they continue to champion the importance of chesed, connection, and creating opportunities for others.