By Debbie Cohen and Hannah Lapin 

When Hebrew Free Loan of Austin (HFLA) first opened its doors more than a decade ago, its purpose was simple: to offer interest-free loans that help Jewish Austinites weather challenges and pursue opportunity. But as Austin’s Jewish community has grown and evolved, so too has HFLA’s role. 

Today, the organization is reaching beyond its core lending mission to strengthen Jewish Austin in new ways — by building bridges, fostering visibility, and helping community members support one another. 

“As a business owner and community member, I kept seeing the same conversations happen year after year,” said Dana Epstein, an HFLA board member and local Realtor. “People wanted to support Jewish-owned businesses but didn’t know where to start, especially newcomers to town.” 

From that need came the idea for the HFLA Community Business Directory, a first-of-its-kind resource designed to connect Jewish professionals, business owners, and community members. 

“The directory grew out of that need for a safe, trusted, one-stop resource that connects our entire community while also strengthening HFLA’s mission,” Epstein said. “It’s a way to lift local businesses and, in turn, help fund more loans for those building their own dreams.” 

For Jennie Loev, a longtime community advocate and supporter, the initiative represents a full-circle connection to a cause she has both personally and professionally championed. 

“My connection to HFLA runs deep,” Loev shared. “I’ve personally benefited from their support and have seen family and friends do the same. My brother chaired the Houston chapter, and I’ve spearheaded fundraising events here in Austin. The organization’s model of interest-free loans reflects the Jewish value of helping others stand on their own feet — empowering them, a vital human need. It’s an organization that invests in people’s potential and strengthens our community’s foundation.” 

For Naomi Brodkey, one of Jewish Austin’s natural connectors, the new directory is a reflection of something deeper — a continuation of how HFLA builds community. 

“I’ve never really thought about my motivation for connecting people,” Brodkey said. “I’m a helper. I love bringing people together so they can help each other.” 

Alex Pearson knows firsthand how HFLA can be a springboard for personal and professional growth. Years ago, she turned to Hebrew Free Loan while launching her first business. Today, she’s both a borrower and a business owner featured in the new directory — living proof of how support can come full circle. 

To Pearson, the HFLA directory is more than a listing. “It’s a reminder that Jewish people love to support one another,” she said. “We’re willing to help each other grow and get better — that’s what community is all about.” 

For puppeteer and artist Joan Klasson, HFLA’s support was nothing short of transformative. After a lifetime of teaching art in Austin schools, Klasson launched Small Wonders Entertainment — a nonprofit that brings joy to seniors through musical puppet shows performed by “famous entertainers” in puppet form. 

When COVID-19 shut down live performances, Klasson’s income evaporated. “I had to do other jobs to stay afloat,” she recalled. “Then a friend suggested I try Hebrew Free Loan. It was like a miracle — I could finally take a full breath again.” 

With the help of her interest-free loan, Klasson was able to pay off debt and restart her shows. Soon after, she received a grant from the City of Austin to expand her senior performances. Today, her “Good for Good” model channels proceeds from children’s puppet shows to fund free entertainment for seniors and memory care residents. 

“I’m a Jewish puppeteer from Brooklyn who’s always wanted to do good work for my community,” Klasson said. “The more business I get, the more senior shows I can do. It’s all connected.” 

For HFLA, initiatives like the Community Business Directory are a natural evolution of its founding purpose — helping people help each other. 

By filling unmet needs, amplifying Jewish-owned businesses, and connecting community members in new ways, HFLA continues to strengthen Jewish Austin — one relationship, one business, and one dream at a time.