I just celebrated my 9th anniversary with this remarkable Jewish organization. Nearly a decade filled with unforgettable events, late nights, Big wins, and even Bigger lessons. When I first began, I couldn’t have imagined how deeply this place would shape me—not only as a professional, but as a person.
In honor of nine transformative years, here are nine lessons I’ve learned along the way:
1. The kids are my why. It’s always been all about the kids. I’m passionate about making a real difference in their lives, guided by the belief that when you change a child’s life, you change the future. That mission is the foundation of everything I do.
2. Passion guides purpose. When I share our agency goals with genuine passion, people listen—and want to join me. Passion is contagious. I’ve learned to let it shine through my vision. That shared excitement turns ideas into action and goals into reality.
3. Stay curious. Growth begins with curiosity. Engaging in continuous learning – acquiring new skills and knowledge has led me to deeper happiness and fulfillment in my role. Whether it’s a fresh perspective or a new challenge, listening and learning fuels my fulfillment and effectiveness in this work.
4. Connection is Everything. This mission isn’t solo work—it takes a dedicated community of staff, board members, donors, and volunteers. The stronger our connections, the stronger we become. Time and again, I’ve found that building meaningful relationships has been at the heart of every success I’ve achieved.
5. Build A Support System. Leadership is hard, but it isn’t meant to be lonely. Finding my people – the trusted circle I can turn to when challenges arise – has been a game changer. They’ve offered me strength, clarity, and comfort.
6. Empower Other Leaders. Great leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about knowing when to ask for help and creating space for others to shine. I’ve learned to lean on the expertise of my colleagues, board, and network, trusting their insights and strengths. Together our wins become bigger and our impact deeper.
7. Resilience Is Built From Challenge. There have been challenges—a global pandemic, economic shifts, social tensions, and moments of deep uncertainty. Each test has only strengthened my resolve. Facing them together with my incredible team has built resilience. Together we developed the courage and conviction to not just protect our mission but make it stronger.
8. Joy Is a Form of Activism. Positive change is achieved through joy, validation, and encouragement. In a world often defined by struggle, I choose joy, celebration, and gratitude—especially in Jewish life—as powerful tools to uplift and inspire. This mindset allows me to show up for our community and our future in ways that fill me with pride and purpose.
9. Celebrate the Wins. Be Present. Nine years in, I feel more grateful than ever to be part of the incredible work we’re doing at Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles. To my colleagues, our volunteers, our supporters, and every person whose life has been touched by this mission—thank you for shaping these nine lessons and filling these years with countless memories. Here’s to the next chapter, built on everything we’ve learned and achieved together.
ABOUT JBBBSLA
Founded in 1915, Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles (JBBBSLA) assists youth in achieving their full potential through innovative, impactful programs: Youth Mentoring, Camp Bob Waldorf, and College Access + Success. Each year JBBBSLA serves more than 1,400 youth across three programs from a variety of backgrounds, races, religions, and socio-economic status. In the past 10 years, JBBBSLA’s Youth Mentoring team has made 3,000 Big Brother and Big Sister matches. For more information about the organization, to donate, or find out how you can get involved please visit: www.jbbbsla.org
For more information or questions, please do not hesitate to reach me at cuslan@jbbbsla.org.
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