Carolyn Tisdale has always approached community service from a place of genuine dedication rather than the pursuit of accolades. Actively seeking out opportunities to contribute, she believes that aiding others often leads to personal fulfillment.
Upon being informed that she would be receiving the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), Michigan’s prestigious Woman of Vision Award, Tisdale expressed her surprise. “There are just so many incredible women in this community and so many women who are so deserving of this award,” she remarked. “There are so many women who’ve stepped up into leadership roles, who work behind the scenes, who do so much for so many different organizations.”
Tisdale will receive the honor on October 8 during the NCJW|MI’s annual Women of Vision fundraising event, held at Adat Shalom Synagogue in Farmington Hills. The event will also include a keynote speech by Jeanette Epps, a former NASA astronaut and aerospace engineer. Additionally, the Jewish Hospice and Chaplaincy Network will be recognized with the Josephine S. Weiner Community Service Award.
Although the event primarily aims to raise funds for NCJW|MI’s community initiatives, organizers, including past president Sallyjo Levin, emphasize that its significance extends beyond simply fundraising. They aspire for attendees to leave inspired, ignited to engage with their own dreams. “You know what, I have this dream,” said Levin, encapsulating the event’s goal. “No matter how old I am, I still have this dream, and I’d like to do something to work toward it.”
Jeanette Epps is set to share her unique experiences during her time as a NASA mission specialist, offering insights into resilience—an idea that Levin believes will resonate with the audience despite their more grounded realities. “Nobody sitting in the audience has been where she’s been,” Levin said, highlighting the extraordinary nature of Epps’ accomplishments. “No one in that audience has been in space. I can probably guarantee that.”
Tisdale resonates with this message of resilience, stating, “Resilience means, no matter what you’re facing, to just keep going. Even if you don’t feel like you’re making progress, it’s baby steps. Every single thing you do is a step along the path.” She emphasizes that for many women, resilience is about finding their voice, asserting themselves, and continuing through obstacles.
With a long history of community engagement, Tisdale has held leadership roles in several organizations, including Hebrew Free Loan, the Jewish Women’s Foundation of Metropolitan Detroit, and MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, among others. Her journey in service began at home, modeled by her parents’ commitment. “I feel that it’s my responsibility to give back,” she noted, reflecting on the values instilled in her from a young age.
Her return to the Detroit community in 1991 marked a new chapter in her volunteer experience, allowing her to reconnect and foster friendships with like-minded individuals. “Through volunteering, I’ve met amazing people and made wonderful friends and wonderful connections,” Tisdale remarked. Her experience at Hebrew Free Loan allowed her to understand the financial hardships faced by many in the area. “You really see how you can make a difference in someone’s life by giving them an interest-free loan at a time where they might not have any place else that they can turn,” she explained.
Moreover, her role with the Jewish Women’s Foundation opened her eyes to various community programs, while her association with MAZON heightened her awareness of food insecurity issues. “Each experience has taught me something,” Tisdale reflected.
The extensive scope of her involvement was instrumental in her selection for the award. Levin recalled that she had yet to meet Tisdale when her name was proposed. “It was like, she’s perfect,” Levin stated. “She is someone who’s gotten involved in a number of different things in our community and made a difference.” Tisdale’s enthusiasm for motivating others to participate also stood out to Levin. “When you take the first step, it’s nice when you have someone next to you who’s also making some steps,” Levin added.
The proceeds from the Women of Vision event will support vital initiatives such as the Back 2 School Store, which helps underprivileged children in Detroit with necessary supplies, as well as various community programs designed to improve the lives of women, children, and families. The event will also honor the Jewish Hospice and Chaplaincy Network for their meaningful contributions in supporting families facing end-of-life challenges.
For anyone inspired by figures like Epps and Tisdale, Tisdale advises that the key is to start where one’s passion lies. “Find a cause that resonates with you, or an organization that’s doing work that you admire, and reach out to them,” she said, advising that all causes deserve attention and effort.
Ultimately, the essence of the Women of Vision event is about inspiring individuals to take action in their own lives. As Levin stated, the hope is for attendees to leave with an empowered sense of possibility, encouraging them to consider how they can contribute positively to their communities.
If you go
What: National Council of Jewish Women, Michigan Women of Vision
When: Thursday, October 8. Registration and boutiques begin at 9:30 a.m.; speaker and awards presentation at 11:45 a.m., followed by a luncheon and door prizes.
Where: Adat Shalom Synagogue, 29901 Middlebelt Road, Farmington Hills
Featured speaker: Former NASA astronaut and aerospace engineer Jeanette Epps
Honorees: Carolyn Tisdale, Woman of Vision; Jewish Hospice and Chaplaincy Network—recipient of the Josephine S. Weiner Community Service Award
Tickets: Donation levels start at $54, with advance registration required.
More information: Visit ncjwmi.org/women-of-vision.
