For Smadar Kleinstein, being a member of Shomrei Torah is a family affair. The daughter of Tova and Zev Friede, Smadar has been involved in Shomrei Torah since 1977 when the Friede family joined her uncle's family in Wayne. Members of Shomrei Torah since they arrived in the States, Smadar and her younger sister Keren (z"l) were both bat mitzvah here at Shomrei Torah.

Born in Israel, the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, Smadar grew up in Wayne and graduated from Wayne Valley High School. After attending Binghamton University where she studied biology and continued her career goal as a Physician's Assistant studying in Maryland. Upon her return to New Jersey, she continued her career path and is currently employed by High Mountain Health, a local family practice.

With a love of sports, especially soccer, Smadar has always enjoyed being athletic, and shares that enjoyment with her children, Leah (7) and Eli (3). With husband, David, Smadar enjoys biking, walking, and playing with her children.

In addition to her parents, her sister Rotem lives in Pennsylvania with brother-in- law Jason and nephews Oren & Ben and niece Arielle. This collective family, Smadar acknowledges, has been the biggest influence on her life. "Their support and advice has guided me in the right direction."

Smadar states "Shomrei has always afforded me a sense of community and comfort." Both Leah and Eli were named here and the entire congregation mourned with the extended family when Smadar's beloved sister passed away unexpectedly this past summer.

Smadar has volunteered both with Mitzvah Corp and Family Promise. She has served on the ATID panel and chaperoned the Chaverim youth group.

Smadar hopes to make Shomrei a place that will draw in young families and build a strong network "so my children can identify with Judaism."

"Being a Sabra, I have always had the heart of a Zionist and therefore my religion was a part of my identity. Being Jewish means to me living with the mindfulness of family, support and helping others. I love the Israeli heritage, traditions, music, language and holidays."

Thank you Smadar, for helping to make Shomrei Torah better and better!