Faces of TJE: Jacquie Marks – Finding Meaning and Community at TJE
Jacquie Marks’ journey back into Jewish life has been rich with rediscovery, but it’s her connection to The Jewish Experience (TJE) that has turned inspiration into action—and community into home.
For Aaron Polster, the events of October 7, 2023, marked a profound shift—not just globally, but personally.
Before then, Aaron had what many might call a “satisfactory” Jewish life in Denver. He was no stranger to Jewish tradition. He’d gather 30 friends for an annual Passover seder, attend synagogue for the High Holidays, and occasionally host or join a Shabbat dinner. Community was there—but it wasn’t until tragedy struck that Aaron realized something deeper was missing.
Moshe Ohana grew up in Monsey, New York and went to school nearby in Binghamton. Many thousands of miles away, Rikki Wedgle was raised in Denver, but then ended up attending Syracuse University, which is about an hour from Binghamton. The two of them were so close, yet a world apart. Little did they know that their Beshert was just a train-ride away, and that they’d be meeting and connecting in Denver, thanks to Olami Denver Experience.
As an active member of the Family Experience, Howard S. finds profound meaning in connecting his faith to every aspect of his life. Drawing connections between Torah principles and modern-day challenges, he demonstrates the profound ways in which spirituality and ethics shape his contributions to both medicine and the broader community.
For Barbara Moskowitz, matchmaking isn’t just a role—it’s a passion rooted in empathy, intuition, and a genuine love of connection. After watching friends struggle to find meaningful relationships, Barbara realized she had both the drive and the insight to help. She became a matchmaker with JDenver to do just that.
Bob Lackner finds deep spiritual nourishment and education through his involvement with The Jewish Experience (TJE). For over a decade, Bob has participated in TJE programs, including Rabbi Leban’s Lunch and Learn sessions and weekly Talmud classes. These sessions have become an essential part of his life. “It’s a mandatory thing on my calendar,” Bob explains
Michael Staenberg’s philanthropic journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing and Jewish values. Raised in a family that emphasized gratitude and giving, Staenberg learned the importance of tzedakah at just 10 years old.
Jenny Rosenberg, Chair of The Women’s Experience Steering Committee, is a woman whose life is deeply rooted in Jewish values, guiding her work, family, and philanthropy. For Rosenberg, these areas are inseparable from her faith and heritage. “In philanthropy, all of my charitable donations go to Jewish organizations,” she says.
For Matt, a young professional and recent transplant to Denver, The Jewish Experience has been more than just a community center—it’s been a lifeline. In an industry as demanding as news reporting, Matt treasures the sanctuary that TJE provides.