40 under 40: Evon Yakar, Temple Bat Yam
Tahoe Chamber | May 29, 2018 | 40 Under 40
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As a rabbi, Evon Yakar is responsible for leading, educating and inspiring his synagogue at Temple Bat Yam, South Lake Tahoe’s only Reform Judaism temple.
The scope of his work goes far beyond that, though.
From serving on the advisory council for the Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless, volunteering with Live Violence Free’s boy’s empowerment retreat, to serving the Leadership Lake Tahoe task force, Evon has been one of the south shore’s most active community members since moving here in 2011.
Congratulations to Evon Yakar, the latest honoree of our 40 under 40 series!
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
As a rabbi, I am responsible for the administrative leadership, religious leadership and education of our synagogue communities. In partnership with my respective boards, I am also responsible for the visioning of our congregations and constantly exploring ways to continue engaging our members, Jewish visitors to the region and sharing Judaism with the wider community through outreach.
At least those are the items listed in my contract! But, the responsibilities of a rabbi often include what I call the “broom closet” clause. The broom closet is a place we put all those things that don’t have another place to be. So, I am also responsible for those “other” needs when we are not sure who should be responsible!
In my time in Tahoe, I am proud of numerous accomplishments. Internally to our congregation, we have maintained our membership in a healthy way and kept a stable budget. We have also engaged our community members in meaningful learning and holiday celebrations as well as engaging in crucial outreach and social justice activities. I am proud of our civic engagement, I am proud of the ways we have supported the Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless and their Warm Room Project. I am honored and blessed to have served the Candidate Endorsement Committee and chaired that committee through the Tahoe Chamber as well as my role with the Leadership Lake Tahoe Task Force. One program of which I am particularly proud has been my involvement with Live Violence Free’s Boys Empowerment event. It is a day during which we learn with young men, challenging them to recognize positive and healthy outlets for their energies and intellect.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
My favorite professional moment in the last year might be hosting another successful retreat for Jewish adults. We welcomed over twenty individuals from the Sacramento area and around Tahoe to engage in learning, recreation and building relationships. The learning was powerful and the participants were engaging. It was yet another way our small Jewish community at Temple Bat Yam provides meaningful ways to celebrate our Judaism.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you try to live by?
I’m not sure I have a professional or life mantra that covers every moment of my life and work; however, here are two learnings that constantly guide me:
- A yoga teacher once taught me: “You are the point the universe is trying to make.” From this idea, I have learned that each of us has a message and a unique light to share with the world.
- There is a Jewish value: Sameach B’Chelko – Happy with One’s Lot. We understand lot to not mean our collection of physical items, but rather our being, our intellect, our ability to learn and grow. I work each and every day to be happy with my abilities, my potential and to continue to strive.
What was your first job?
My first job was working at a car wash during my freshman year of high school.
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
Simple: Tahoe offers me the recreational opportunities and the professional opportunities that engage and inspire me.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
My volunteer roles and groups include: Tahoe Chamber; Leadership Lake Tahoe; Live Violence Free, Boys Empowerment; Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless, Advisory Council. I also sit together with interfaith clergy groups in South Lake Tahoe, North Lake Tahoe and Carson City.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
My favorite thing to do outside of work is to take slow, no-agenda hikes with my wife Rachel, my boys Caleb (5) and Jonah (2), and our dog Sasha.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds?
My favorite South Shore stomping grounds with my kids is definitely the beach—Pope or Baldwin, depending on the time of year!
Get in touch with Evon today:
Temple Bat Yam
530-542-1211
Email Evon