Helen Frank, the recipient of the Janis Levine Music Make-A-Difference Award for 2024, is a dedicated volunteer with a long-term commitment to NCJW (National Council of Jewish Women) Dallas.  

Her journey began over twenty years ago when she moved from Memphis to Dallas. Exemplifying the essence of selfless service, her primary goal has always been to positively impact the lives of those she serves, without seeking any attention for herself. 
 
Her faith and belief in Tikkun Olam, coupled with her firsthand knowledge of benefiting from others’ volunteer efforts, instilled in Helen a fervent desire to reciprocate. She aspired to be a role model for her three sons, drawing inspiration from her mother, Margie Snetman. Despite managing a women’s clothing store with her husband and raising five children, Helen’s mother volunteered at her children’s schools and in the community. 

Helen pursued her education at the University of Texas, Austin and received her BA in Journalism from the University of Memphis. Born in Memphis, she spent her early years in Oklahoma City before moving back to Memphis during her adolescence. Helen’s career in nonprofit management in Memphis provided her with an exceptional background: she was the Executive Director for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the National Kidney Foundation, overseeing 24 counties in West Tennessee. 

In 2002, she moved from Memphis to Dallas to marry Jerry Frank. Their blended family includes five sons and a daughter and seven much loved grandchildren.

In Dallas, long-time volunteers for the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) significantly influenced Helen. This includes past President Phyllis Bernstein, who tirelessly served both NCJW and the wider Dallas community, and mentored Helen. Others, like Joy Mankoff, demonstrated their commitment through actions and generous giving. Helen’s mother-in-law, Emme Sue Frank, was a devoted volunteer and a key figure in NCJW’s programs and philanthropy. Her cousin, Sheryl Fields Bogen, also made notable contributions as a community volunteer. 

Helen’s commitment to NCJW encompasses roles such as Vice President of Public Affairs, Vice President for Development, and Vice President of Communications, including publishing the newsletter. She also served as co-chair of the Birthday Luncheon and Awards Committee and chair of the Installation and Awards Luncheon. Helen volunteered for Kids in Court and tutored at the Martinez Learning Center, while also being part of the Nominating Committee. Currently, she is on the NCJW Board. 
 
In the community, Helen has served on the Board of Temple Emanu-El, where she performed the role of co-chair of the Caring Congregation and is now on the Music and Arts Committee. She was the Board Chairperson for the Dallas Women’s Foundation (now Texas Women’s Foundation) and contributed to the strategic planning, host, and board alumni committees. She has also served as a board member of the Friends of the Dallas Public Library and Healthy Futures of Texas (formerly NTARUPT), where she participated in the fundraising committee. 

We are beyond honored to regognize Helen. Congratulations!