Teaneck Resident Named 'Woman Of The Century' By Jewish Org.

TEANECK, NJ — For Ina Miller-Silverstein, volunteering is one of the greatest joys of her life.

Just as her second term as co-president of the National Council of Jewish Women Bergen County Section ends, the 85-year-old Teaneck resident is being recognized for her volunteer efforts, with the local organization's "Woman of the Century" award.

"I have dedicated so much of my life to volunteering — first (in being) a role model for my children but then I fell in love with the work (more generally), and I wouldn't trade it for the world," Miller-Silverstein said.

To be nominated as the "Woman of the Century" is a great honor, she said, and serving "such a wonderful group of women" and working with co-president Elaine Myerson has been fulfilling and rewarding.

"Although serving as co-president was hard work, knowing you are touching lives in the Bergen County community and beyond makes (that work) worth it," Miller-Silverstein said.

Regardless of how busy she was, Miller-Silverstein — who worked multiple jobs, including as an educator — always made time to volunteer, so that she could be the best role model for her children, NCJW BCS spokesperson Heather Dickerson said.

A member of the NCJW BCS for more than 60 years, Miller-Silverstein has been co-president for the past two years and also in 2010 and 2011. Her term ends in June, though she will serve as honorary vice president next year.

In April, she had joined over 140 life members and 20 past co-presidents at a local synagogue to commemorate the Bergen County Section's 100th anniversary. In her welcoming remarks, she reflected on the section's history of service, advocacy and sisterhood, and looked toward the future.

"The past hundred years are our roots, and they will provide inspiration and guidance as we move forward," Miller-Silverstein said. "But our memories cannot outweigh our dreams for the future."

During the 100-year celebration, the section played a film that showcased its volunteer activities and achievements over the years. Many of those efforts Miller-Silverstein has been involved in, including advocating for women and helping people who are food insecure.

Notably, she spearheaded efforts to create the "plaintiffs' waiting room" in the Bergen County Courthouse, where — section spokesperson Dickerson said — domestic violence survivors have the opportunity to be separated from their abusers.

She was also co-chair of a swim program for people with multiple sclerosis, and was recognized this year by the Bergen Family Center for her volunteer work with its program to help train parents to become their child(ren)'s "first teacher," Dickerson said.

Volunteering, Miller-Silverstein said, is a selfless act of kindness that gives her great joy, and she looks forward to continuing those efforts as well as spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

"As an 85-year-old woman I have made myself and my kids proud, and that feels great," she said.