What you do:
I’m an artist manager at Vector, guiding the careers of comedians. My volunteer activities include serving as the co-chair of UJA-Federation of New York’s Entertainment & Tech Council, where I lead the Music for Youth initiative, a program that helps underprivileged youth gain access to music education and music programs. The Music for Youth Initiative, which was founded over 20 years ago, was formed to engage the music industry and also provides support to UJA agencies who offer music-related programs. Every year we review grant requests and allocate funds to agencies who need it most.
I am also serving as a board member of Shorefront YM-YWHA in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn.
Unexpected fun fact:
My father, my brother and I are all musicians.
Quote you live by:
“Do or do not, there is no try.” — Yoda
How you got here:
Upon marrying my wife and joining her Jewish family, I wanted to earn my stripes and do as much as I could to better understand Jewish culture. I thought the best way to do that was through facilitating tzedakah and getting involved in organizations that could benefit from my enthusiasm. What started as occasional attendance to UJA events has now grown into greater responsibility within the sprawling organization, as well as a deeper perspective on the need for — and impact of — Jewish organizations within the community at large.
What do you consider unique or innovative about what you do?
While it’s not rocket science, I think my relative uniqueness is simply making time for my goals regardless of how busy life gets, especially in the context of a show business lifestyle. Whenever I talk about my charity work, people say, “Wow, I wish I could get more involved!” as if it’s a truly monumental task. Solving world hunger is hard; shrinking income inequality is hard. Being able to follow through on small goals is key.
Best advice you received:
Support the New York Jewish Week
Our nonprofit newsroom depends on readers like you. Make a donation now to support independent Jewish journalism in New York.
Let your work speak for itself.
What Jewish source, person, book, etc., has inspired your work?:
[Producer] Marc Platt and [music industry executive] Daniel Glass are two people that inspire me tremendously. In addition to everything they do within the entertainment industry, they both maintain a steadfast dedication to support Jewish organizations and galvanize others to do the same.
Follow me: @dexter__scott
The New York Jewish Week brings you the stories behind the headlines, keeping you connected to Jewish life in New York. Help sustain the reporting you trust by donating today.
