Tikkun Olam.
This Jewish saying refers to various actions intended to repair and improve the world. Many believe in pouring into their community to build better outcomes for the future, this can take many forms, but a key component of giving back is community volunteerism.
Stu Goldberg, an attorney with more than 30 years of experience and an active volunteer in Toledo, is a role model for these concepts. His strong belief in giving back to his community was instilled in him by his family, who regularly gave their time to various philanthropic organizations. Stu always believes that all people can do better for their community. In addition to giving financially, it’s just as important to give another finite resource – Time, especially when there’s a need.
His involvement with United Way of Greater Toledo (UWGT) started 37 years ago when he began giving to the annual campaign. In 1992, he became the campaign chair for his company to encourage other lawyers to support the United Way at the leadership level. Then, in 1993 he joined the UWGT Campaign Cabinet to help build relationships with lawyers in the Toledo area. After some time, he stepped away from the organization but returned in 2018 upon meeting Wendy Pestrue and believing in her passion, vision and leadership for United Way. When approached to join the UWGT Board of Directors, he was ready to answer the call and willing to assist in any way possible.
Stu shared how he feels even the smallest acts of kindness can be the most rewarding. He will always give back as he sees the need and has time.
“A little bit of your time can make a huge difference in the lives of others.”
When asked what he would like his legacy to be, he wants people to remember him as a good person, someone that people loved and respected, a good family man, someone who brightened the day of others and made his community a better place.
Talking with Stu, I could sense how much he truly cared about Toledo and helping others. Despite being in a demanding career, he makes time to do the little things that can instill hope into those who have lost it. We can all learn something from Stu Goldberg, and we can all do something to make our communities a place where more people can thrive and live the happy and healthy lives they deserve.
