Fundraising Events

2010 Honorees: Margot and Jerry Halperin

"Hopefully we can make a difference." This has been Margot and Jerry's mantra for many years, as evidenced by the impressive list of leadership positions they hold. They are involved in a wide variety of organizations both locally and in California, where they spend their winters with their children and grandchildren.

Margot, who attended U of M, has been a driving force in Women's Philanthropy, fundraising and grant making. She has served on the Executive Committee of the Women's Department of the Jewish Federation, held leadership roles in Federation's Women's Campaign, Palm Springs Women's Philanthropy Board, JFMD General Campaign and the LOJE Endowment Committee. She is a lifetime member of the Board of Governors of JFMD, a member of the advisory council of the Women's Department, member of the National Woman's Philanthropy Board, and a past Vice President of the United Jewish Foundation. She has served on the boards of JVS and Single Jewish Parents Network, and proudly serves on the Board of Directors of Yad Ezra.

One of Margot's most rewarding achievements is having been the founding chair of the Jewish Woman's Foundation where she currently sits as a lifetime trustee. In 2005, she was honored by the foundation with the "Women Lighting the Way" award.

Jerry is also a lifetime appointee to the Board of Governors of the JFMD. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Jewish Home for the Aged, the Jewish Community Center and has chaired the Federation's Audit Committee and a special committee to study the aging in the community. He has also served on the Board of Hebrew Free Loan and continues to participate on their advisory committee.

In 2003 Jerry was honored to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jewish Federation recognizing his service to the community.

After graduation from Harvard Law School and obtaining his CPA certificate, Jerry spent forty years with Coopers & Lybrand the International Accounting Firm practicing as a Partner in the Tax Department. He was elected a vice-chairman of the firm, where he was involved in the national management of the firm. After his retirement from Coopers, Jerry became president of the Detroit Investment Fund. Jerry authored a book, "Tax Planning for Real Estate Transaction" and has written numerous articles for professional magazines.

As a couple who consider their greatest achievement their three children, seven grandchildren and the spouses of their children, Margot and Jerry strongly believe in the importance and strength of family. They are both honored to be able to participate in this effort that provides needed assistance to the growing number of vulnerable Jewish families facing financial hardship and hunger in our community.