Written by Philip Tepper
For Marc and Debbie Zumoff, Maccabi USA is not just an organization, it is a family affair. Having led successful careers prior to their volunteer involvement – as the lead television play-by-play announcer for the Philadelphia 76ers and as a financial services attorney, respectively – they were ready to combine their intellect, professional backgrounds, and personal interests toward a greater vision: strengthening the Jewish community through a connection to Israel.
Honeymooning in Israel more than 40 years ago served as their introduction to the Holy Land and became the first step of their shared Zionism that continues today. “We were two young, idealistic people who had no idea what we were doing,” said Marc. “Our sense of discovery of this wonderful land and the country became extremely meaningful.”
From that point forward, helping establish a relationship to the Jewish Homeland for the next generation became a key part of their relationship. This continues today through their current involvement with Maccabi USA, each through a unique passion.
After stumbling across the semblances of Maccabiah content by media outlets, Marc vowed to create a comprehensive media program that covered the Games. With the backing of grants and the Maccabi USA professional team, Zumoff helped launch the Maccabi Media Program, an experience-based opportunity for media students to cover the Games. Starting in 2022 with 14 students, the Program has expanded beyond the Maccabiah, also including Pan American and European Games media coverage.
For Debbie, her involvement stemmed from the nomination of a friend, former Maccabi USA President Bob Spivak (z”l). Debbie serves as the Chair for the Lev L’Lev Initiative, a community-service project held during Maccabi USA’s signature Israel Connect program at the Maccabiah that allows athletes to give back to people in need in Israel. “Helping communities hardest hit by October 7th to rebuild, to regain their humanity, to return home is the theme of this year’s Lev L’Lev,” shared Debbie.
The Zumoffs’ involvement with Maccabi USA has become unifying after years of holding separate careers. “We shared raising our kids, setting goals and common beliefs throughout our 40-plus year marriage. Now we have a shared endeavor in Maccabi USA,” said Debbie. Marc added, “It makes us love each other even more.”
Their shared value of l’dor v’dor, passing values from one generation to the next, fuels their continued volunteerism with the organization. Debbie emphasized this sentiment, with her mission being, “To help young people gain the context necessary… so that they understand the importance of keeping our culture alive and growing and keep Israel alive and thriving for generations to come.”
Marc finds that Maccabi Media is a “legacy” project. “I want to be able to leave it so future generations can cover the Games and not only experience what athletes experience but also to get the message of the Maccabi Games across to people,” he explained.
Thanks to Debbie and Marc Zumoff, the Lev L’Lev initiative and the Maccabi Media Program will continue to provide incredible opportunities for young Maccabi USA delegates to experience Israel through community service and media industry experience in 2025 and beyond. Their work reminds us all, as Marc reveals, “There’s nothing like sharing it with your life partner.”