Julie Auerbach, Esq., was recently sworn in as the new Chair of the Connectedly Board. Ms. Auerbach has served on the Connectedly board for nearly two decades, bringing a wealth of experience and organizational knowledge. She took a few minutes from her busy schedule as Partner of Astor, Weiss, Kaplan & Mandel, LLP to answer some questions on her background, what brought her to Connectedly, and what she is looking forward to in her tenure as Board Chair.
Why did you join Connectedly’s board?
The mission of Connectedly appealed to me as, at that time, my two grandmothers were well into their 90s. I appreciated the need for older adults to feel a sense of connection to the community. As time went on, my appreciation for the work done by Connectedly only deepened. Seeing the impact of the services provided by Connectedly on individuals is truly moving and inspirational. The grit, energy, and joy exhibited by the individuals served by Connectedly are a constant reminder of the need for the services and the benefits Connectedly provides. I continue to learn about the effects of aging, its impact on individuals, and the importance of resources and support systems for older adults.
Are there any Connectedly programs you take a special interest in?
As a family law attorney who has represented many grandparents involved in raising their grandchildren, I am drawn to the Grandfamily Resource Center. Raising children is one of the hardest things anyone can do, which is compounded when the responsibility of raising these children falls on grandparents.
I am also really moved by the Counseling for Homebound Adults. This support group provides a network of individuals for those who are homebound. It allows these individuals to lean on one another and provide guidance and support to one another. For some participants, the telephone group may be their only significant connection with others. When I reflect on my own life and the significance of my connections, I can truly see how vital connections are to all individuals, particularly those who are unable to leave their homes.
How have you seen the organization innovate and change since you have been on the Board?
New programs have been added to Connectedly, namely the Grandfamily Resource Center, which comprises Philly Families Read Together, Philly Families Eat Smart, and Philly Families Connect. Connectedly recently rebranded itself and changed its name, being formerly known as SOWN. The energy and commitment of the Executive Director, staff, and Board of Directors have and continue to increase exponentially. The amount of care, effort, and work put into Connectedly is truly amazing.
What do you see as your goals as Chair?
Greater outreach into the community, showcasing the importance of the work done by Connectedly, increasing the individual and corporate donor base, and keeping the Board energized and engaged to ensure the organization’s future vitality are my primary goals.
What occupies your time outside of your Board commitment?
In addition to my family law practice, I serve as a councilwoman on my local borough council and volunteer at the Women’s Resource Center, where I provide legal guidance to women regarding divorce-related issues. My free time is largely spent with my husband, children, and grandchildren, who continue to inspire me every day.
