During Tuesday's event, renowned humanitarian and writer, Gerda Weissmann Klein,  reached out to thousands of students across the United States with her message of tolerance and compassion through interactive video.  She recounted stories about  her experiences under the Nazi regime in Europe during World War II and the final death march to a camp in Czechoslovakia.  Everyone who heard her was moved by her tenacious hold on life during a time when others were embracing death as an escape from the horror of their daily lives.

She then challenged the students to make a difference in their own communities by developing projects and initiatives that will improve the quality of life for people of all races, religions, economic conditions, and physical or  mental incapacities.  Although the vast majority of challenges facing the students in this country today pale in comparison to the millions who died during World War II, Gerda strongly believes that the ripple effect of student actions will result in a greater understanding of our communities and our world.

In March, all of the participating students will gather via video to share their service learning projects with Gerda, Beth Reisboard (Executive Director of the foundation), Nancy Astor-Fox (Associate Director of the foundation), and supporters.

One of the most touching stories Gerda shared was about winning the Academy Award. When she received an Oscar for the film documentary of her first book All But My Life, she was reminded of a time when her greatest desire was to reach the end of the food line and maybe be fortunate enough to find a piece of potato in the thin liquid that somewhat resembled soup.  She never lost sight of the enormous value of the most simple human needs.

Now, Gerda has received another award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.  This is the highest honor bestowed on citizens of these United States of America.  We rejoice in Gerda’s recognition, but, like her, we will value the smallest and simplest things in life: family, food, shelter, and companionship.