Winkelmans Deserving Recipients of Raymond and Audrey Maislin Humanitarian Award

Date: December 20, 2011

For the first time an entire family will be recognized for its many contributions to the betterment of the Austin community and the world with the Raymond and Audrey Maislin Humanitarian Award, which will be presented March 21, 2012 at the ADL Austin Torch of Liberty Dinner.

"The Winkelmans are among the most loved families in Austin.  They're everywhere, giving of themselves all of the time," said Steve Adler, Immediate Past Chair of the ADL. 

All three Winkelman kids, Eli, Alex and Jacob, have founded organizations that are contributing to community.  Eli is Executive Director of Challah for Hunger which raises money and awareness for hunger and disaster relief through the production of challah.  Currently there are chapters on over fifty college campuses across the country. 

Alex's Citizen Generation is engaging younger Austinites in the habit of giving and through her efforts has raised over $300,000 for area non-profits.

Jacob co-founded Back to Old School Sustainability, a Tulane University organization which promotes reducing carbon footprints through self-sufficiency and localization efforts. 

"The Winkelmans derive more pleasure from doing for others far more than they do from having others doing for them. Austin is very fortunate and blessed to have them as part of our community," said Kirk Rudy, ADL Board member and Winkelman friend.

The Raymond and Audrey Maislin Humanitarian Award, given to individuals or organizations that further greater harmony and cooperation in the community, is named for a couple who have supported ADL most of their lives.  Ray and Audrey Maislin themselves will receive a Lifetime Achievment Award for their local, regional and national leadership. Ray is a former Southwest Regional Board Chair and both were lay leaders integral to ADL's success when they lived in Houston. Eight years ago, Ray and Audrey invited families into their living room and asked them to open their wallets and commit their time and talent to help launch the Austin ADL office.

Also of note at Austin's Torch of Liberty Dinner are appearances by Nobel Prize Winner Elie Wiesel, ADL National Director Abraham H. Foxman, and the Torch of Liberty Award which will be presented to Whole Foods.

Sponsorships are available for the 2012 ADL Austin Torch of Liberty Dinner and tables are in high demand. Make reservations now by calling (512) 249-7960 or online at www.adl.org/AustinTOL.