The Goodman Family’s Philanthropic Legacy

Sheldon Goodman created the Morris and Rose Goodman Endowment Fund at UJA-Federation of New York to honor his parents, who he lost at a young age. When Sheldon passed away in 2004, his daughters added his name to the Fund, which they continue to contribute to in his memory. “Supporting the Fund makes us feel like we are keeping his memory alive in the best way possible,” said Susan Goodman, one of Sheldon’s daughters.

Sheldon was born in New York City where he was raised by his parents, Morris and Rose Goodman. Judaism and tzedakah were very important to the Goodman family. After attending Yeshiva (Jewish day school) through middle school, Sheldon went to the Bronx High School of Science where he graduated early to join the army. After the army, Sheldon attended New York University followed by Harvard Law School on a full scholarship.

Sheldon raised his three daughters, Susan, Laurie, and Mindy, in Eastchester, New York, where they enjoyed dancing and singing in their home’s foyer, attending Shabbat services, and spending time at the YM-YWHA of Mid-Westchester (now the Jewish Community Center of Mid-Westchester). Sheldon was heavily involved as a member of the Y’s Scholarship Committee and on its board, serving as the legal counsel for more than 20 years.

Since its creation in 1986, the Morris, Rose, and Sheldon Goodman Endowment Fund to Assist Needy Jews has helped UJA combat poverty and promote dignity. Thanks to the fund:

• Needy families in the five-borough area are given furniture, clothing, and toys that they would otherwise be unable to afford.
• Infants and children in Brighton-Manhattan Beach receive day care scholarships.
• Needy families and individuals in Brooklyn get the social services they need, including financial counseling, legal assistance, immigration assistance, and emergency food vouchers.

UJA and all those who benefit from the Morris, Rose, and Sheldon Goodman Endowment Fund to Assist Needy Jews are extremely grateful for the foresight and generosity of Sheldon Goodman to create the fund and to his three daughters, Susan, Laurie, and Mindy, for their continued support.