Honorees & Comedian

Honoring

Larry and Dale Polsky

WHEN

Sunday, June 8, 2025

EVENT CO-CHAIRS

Blair Goldsmith
Kevin Levine

Larry and Dale Polsky

Jewish Family Services is thrilled to announce Live Laugh Give 2025 honorees, Larry and Dale Polsky. The couple are esteemed members of the Charlotte community, recognized for their dedication to philanthropy and volunteerism. Since moving to Charlotte in 1996, they have become pillars of the community, exemplifying commitment and service to various causes. When the couple first arrived in Charlotte more than 28 years ago, they were overwhelmed by how warm the community reached out and welcomed them.

Dale’s connection to Jewish Family Services (JFS) began as a teenager when JFS Cleveland assisted her in securing a summer job. This early experience laid the groundwork for her lifelong advocacy and support, where she served on the JFS Charlotte Board of Directors from 2005 to 2007 and took on the role of Secretary in her final year. Together, Larry and Dale have contributed to specific needs as they arise. “Larry and Dale are true advocates for the work of JFS. Whether it has been supporting keeping seniors safe in the community, mental health for our youth or providing Thanksgiving dinner for families in need, the Polsky’s have always been there meeting the needs of our community,” said Howard Olshansky, JFS Executive Director.

Larry recently retired as a Senior Advisor and was named Director Emeritus of the Board of Directors of The Leon Levine Foundation. His numerous volunteer leadership positions include serving as a Trustee at Queens University of Charlotte, as a Commissioner at Atrium Health (previously Carolinas Healthcare System), a Trustee and Board Chair at Discovery Place, Board Chair and Trustee at the Echo Foundation, a Trustee at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and a Trustee at the Levine Museum of the New South. Larry was instrumental in re-energizing American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) participation in Charlotte. He was involved in the creation of the Congressional Club, and actively participated in this organization, which raises money to support elected officials who support the U.S. – Israel relationship.

Just as involved, Dale has had her impact on the community. She was an active leader and mentor for the Women’s Division of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte, served as Co-Chair of the Lion of Judah campaign and Chair of Women’s Philanthropy. Dale was the recipient of the Federation’s Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award, which honors extraordinary women who have set a high standard for philanthropy and volunteerism. Additionally, Dale served on the Temple Beth El Ways and Means Committee as well as the Grand Reopening Committee, which planned a weekend of activities to showcase its newly expanded building. Dale also had a significant impact on Charlotte’s cultural community serving as Chair of the Board of Advisors of Charlotte Concerts, Vice President of Education where she led a program to expand and enhance their education programs and was Honorary Chair of Charlotte Concerts Inaugural A Musical Showcase. She received the Dr. George A. Stegner Award for Exceptional Contributions to Charlotte Concerts.

Together, in 2017, Larry and Dale chaired the annual Levine Jewish Community Center (LJCC) Kids Triathlon where a record amount of funds was raised to benefit programs at the Levine Children’s Hospital and the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program. Subsequently, they were Co-Chairs for the Learning Society at Queens, named Volunteers of the Year by the LJCC, and honored by Temple Beth El with the Blumenthal Lifetime Achievement Award.

Larry and Dale have been married for 55 years and are the proud parents of Anne Brackis (Jonathan) and Jonathan Polsky (Joanna Lindenbaum) and four grandchildren, Dylan and Halle Brackis and Penina and Yael Polsky. Larry and Dale shared, “We’re proud to support an organization that helps Jewish people in need and grateful for the leadership provided by Howard Olshansky and his very capable team.”

Elon Gold, Stand-Up Comedian

Get ready for a night of unstoppable laughter with Elon Gold! A comedy powerhouse, Elon has entertained millions worldwide with his signature style and sharp wit. His acclaimed one-hour Netflix special, “Elon Gold: Chosen & Taken,” is a fan-favorite, now streaming on Amazon Prime. With ten memorable appearances on The Tonight Show and a recent spotlight on The Late Late Show with James Corden, Elon’s routines are viral sensations that keep audiences coming back for more.

Elon’s versatile talent shines not just on stage but across screens big and small. You may recognize him from hit series like Crashing, Curb Your Enthusiasm (Season 11), and Frasier, or from starring roles in FOX’s Stacked and NBC’s In-Laws. He’s also brought laughs as a writer and performer on ABC’s The Dana Carvey Show and as a guest on Chelsea Lately and Chappelle’s Show. Elon’s big-screen work includes roles in Cheaper by the Dozen, Haunted Mansion, and The Binge, showcasing his knack for scene-stealing humor in film as well.

With a new 30-minute special, “Sets in the City: Elon Gold’s Favorite People”, now streaming on YouTube, Elon is hitting theaters on a national tour to craft his next big comedy special. Don’t miss your chance to see this comedic genius live—come experience the energy, the laughs, and the unforgettable moments only Elon Gold can deliver!

For more information and question please contact Susan Meyer, Development Manager at 704.364-6594 or susan.meyer@jfscharlotte.org