14 | DECEMBER 9 • 2021 

JAEMI LOEB
100 Years Committee co-chair 
Joined 2018
“IADS is like my Jewish home. It’s a com-
munity that is supportive, engaged, root-
ed in tradition but working in the now, 
and always reaching for the stars.”

JODEE FISHMAN RAINES
Former Board President, 2016-2018
Joined 2013 
“I have the deepest respect for the 
board and volunteers who continue to 
pour such passion and hard work into 
making the synagogue the hub of Jewish life in the 
City of Detroit.”

CARRIE REINIS
Board; 100 Years Committee co-chair
Joined 2015. 
“It’s important to have a physical location 
in the city where Jews can come togeth-
er. It is pretty incredible that IADS has 
been that beacon for the past 100 years and has 
a membership that is preparing to be that lasting 

presence for the next 100.”

RUBY ROBINSON
Former Board
Joined 2011
“The synagogue was and still is a prima-
ry place for us to make friendships and 
relationships in the city. In fact, Rabbi 
Silverman married us [wife Yifat Clein] in 2018. Most 
of the Jews who we are friends with in the city we 

met at or through the Downtown Synagogue.”

RICK WIENER
Board; Capital Campaign
Joined 2011
“I’m bullish about the future of IADS. It 
has an active board and a dynamic rabbi. 
The Capital Campaign is nearing comple-
tion and the physical renovation of the synagogue 
will enhance its ability to both expand partnerships 
with additional Jewish organizations and provide 
services to the Jewish community as a whole.”

SAMANTHA “SAM” WOLL

Board Secretary; 100 Years Committee
Joined 2012
“The synagogue is now my second 
home for celebrating Shabbat and 
holidays. It also allows for meaningful 
engagement with both Jewish and non-Jewish 
partners in the city.”

raised more than $4.7 million in a 
capital campaign to totally reno-
vate IADS. 
“We’ve had over 200 donors to 
the campaign at various levels, 
from $36 (double chai) to more 
than $1 million,” Avshalumov 
said.
Plans call for increasing space 
from 12,000 to 15,000 square feet, 
bringing opportunities to net-
work with diverse partners; creat-
ing a rooftop space for weddings 
and special events; installing a 
glass wall to separate a children’s 
play area from the sanctuary, and 
adding ramps, an elevator and 
security features. The top floor 
will feature the rabbinic study 
and views of the Detroit skyline. 
Swapping out glass for the brick 
exterior will make the building 
appear more welcoming. 

An anticipated grand reopen-
ing of the building by Chanukah 
2022 will conclude the yearlong 
Centennial celebration. IADS 
leader and filmmaker Oren 
Goldenberg also expects to pre-
miere his documentary about the 
Downtown Synagogue. 
“During my six years at 
the synagogue, I have seen an 
increasing membership, a focus 
on social justice, a return to 
Detroit for High Holidays ser-
vices and an expansion of staff,” 
Frank said. “
As we beautifully 
renovate our building and wel-
come Jewish organizations to 
share our space and collaborate in 
programming, we will deepen our 
connections and commitment to 
our synagogue community, to the 
larger Jewish community and to 
the City of Detroit.” 

continued from page 13
OUR COMMUNITY

continued from page 13

BBYO members at the 
Downtown Synagogue

The congregation 
celebrates in the 
sanctuary.

During the holiday season, we need kindness, gentleness, and care in our lives. Krystyna’s 
European Spa will always welcome you to our warm self-care oasis. Whether it’s a luxurious 
pedicure, a relaxing massage, or a gift for a friend or loved one, our team is ready to 
help take care of mind and body. At the spa, you will revel in first-class service, 
with facilities featuring Murano pedicure chairs, elegant treatment rooms, 
and an incredible atmosphere to make your experience perfect. 
Celebrate those you care about this holiday season with the 
gift of spa. Wishing you and yours continued health, and a 
bright 2022 ahead.

Peace. Love. Self-Care.

JN - Holiday-Full PG-2021v2.indd 1
JN - Holiday-Full PG-2021v2.indd 1

