Interviewed by Caroline Novak

“Natasha’s commitment to the community is incredible,” notes Galina Leytes, chair of the JCF Russian Division. “She combines financial generosity with true passion and a can-do attitude. She’s a true leader.”

Natasha Novosolov is a committed donor, a tireless volunteer and a passionate leader. One of the main organizers of the JCF Russian Division’s Israel Gala, she has devoted endless hours to strategizing, planning and hosting. A graduate of the Moscow Technical University of Communications, Natasha emigrated from Moscow in 1981. Today, she lives in Menlo Park with her husband, Alex Novell. The couple has two children: Faina, 28, and David, 20. Below Natasha shares some of her thoughts on living and giving.

What was it like when you first came to the US?

In 1981 we arrived in San Francisco from Moscow, our hometown of many years and many memories. Just like for everyone else, it was difficult at first. With no relatives around to offer guidance, we relied on each other, as well as the Jewish community, in order to find our way.

What line of business are you in?

I’ve had over 20 years of experience in engineering positions from product development to corporate management. Sprint was the first company I worked for, and then it was on to a number of smaller start-up companies. I left the corporate life in 2003, and now I divide my time between real estate development opportunities with my husband and volunteering for the Jewish community.

What is your business philosophy?

Do what you believe in… Be decent to others.

What is one word that best describes you?

Driven.

What is a measure of your success?

My ability to take time off and do something because I love it, and not because I have to. I really consider it a privilege to be in a position to share both my time and money with the Jewish community and make a difference. My great relationship with my children, who are grown up and self-sufficient, is also a measure of my success.

What is your advice for raising responsible children?

Not spoiling them with money, but rather encouraging them to make it on their own. First, you’ve got to want something for yourself. Then you’ve got to go and get it.

What is so important about money?

On a personal level, it’s a sense of security and peace of mind. On a larger scale, it’s an opportunity to share.

Why do you give to the Jewish community?

Because of the generosity of other Jews, so many of whom gave to the Jewish Community Federation, we as immigrants were able to get on our feet. My husband and I always remembered that.
For the last 20 years, we’ve given back to the Jewish community in both our time and our money. At least ten percent of our income goes to tzedakah. We don’t consider ourselves rich, but it is important to remember who helped you, to keep the legacy of the Jewish people, and to help others in a time of need.

How have you been involved with the Jewish community?

At first, I became involved with my synagogue—Beth El in San Mateo. A few years ago, my participation expanded to both the Jewish Community Federation (JCF) and Jewish Family & Children Services (JF&CS). I am an active member of several JF&CS committees and the JCF’s Russian Division.

What have you gained from your involvement?

I have met a lot of new people and reconnected with some from the past. Most importantly, I have the satisfaction of seeing the Russian-Jewish community gain a voice—for the first time being truly heard as part of both the Jewish Community Federation and JF&CS.

What have you learned about the Jewish community?

The generosity of the Jewish people… It’s in our history and our blood to help the less fortunate. Jewish people can count on the support of their fellow Jews in every part of the world. It is not only Jewish tradition to help those in need, but also not to expect anything in return. The only expectation is that you help someone else when you can because no matter how bad your situation may be, there is always someone whose situation is worse.

What does giving to a community mean to you?

It’s not just about the money. It’s also about giving time and bringing up responsible children, who will continue the Jewish traditions and keep the Jewish legacy alive. It’s important to be a part of a community, to help bring the community together, and to help make a difference in people’s lives.

Why are you specifically involved with the Federation?

The Jewish Community Federation is the reason that we are here in America. It deals with global issues related to the Jewish community. My involvement at the Federation level is to strengthen the significance of our émigré voice.

If someone wanted to get involved, what advice would you offer?

Start participating. Attend events. Become a sponsor. Involve your family, both parents and children, so that they make their own connections with the community.

What is one thought you’d like to leave our readers with?

Within your means, go and share some of your time and your money. Remember, there is always someone less fortunate than you are.

Caroline Novak is a wealth management advisor at Merrill Lynch in Menlo Park, where she provides high-net-worth individuals and families with financial planning and investment management services. She attended her first major JCF event in October 2004: the JCF Russian Division's Israel Gala. Since then, Caroline has been exploring meaningful involvement with the Jewish community. She now serves on the board of the JCF Business Leadership Council. Caroline is the originator of the Profile of Community Leaders series.