I was a reluctant founding member of Kol Tzedek -- I grew up in a reconstructionist minyan and I didn't want to see the West Philly chavurah become a 'synagogue' with a rabbi. I also thought the rabbi-to-be was kind of young. I could not have been more wrong. The congregation has blossomed thanks to a number of community members who've worked very hard and because in Lauren Grabelle-Hermann, we are blessed to have a tremendously talented rabbi. She's learned, smart, loving and warm and handles tricky situations with tact and grace. She's a gifted storyteller, which is a boon for the kids. And when I was in a precarious, frightening situation several years ago, she provided comfort and reassurance far beyond her years. Kol Tzedek is the best non-profit!