Born in 1941 in South Dallas, Ann is the oldest of three children and grew up in University Park, surrounded by a family whose livelihoods revolved around food and community connection. Her father managed the family-owned grocery store alongside her uncle, while her maternal grandfather owned another grocery store in South Dallas. Food, family, and service were constant presences.
Her grandparents, Bubbie Sarah and Zaydie Archie, were longtime Dallas residents whose story mirrors that of many immigrant families. Archie immigrated to the US through Galveston from Russia around 1905, along with his siblings Simon and Francis. Simon later founded Goodman Produce, while Francis married Jake Goldman, a baker. Zaydie Archie sold produce from a truck along Swiss Avenue—work that connected him directly to the neighborhoods he served.
As Ann later reflected in an interview with the Dallas Jewish Historical Society (DJHS), “So we were all in food.”
Jewish life has always been central to Ann’s identity. “I belong to every Jewish organization,” she said in her interview with DJHS.
When her children were in Sunday school, she taught a Jewish cooking class at Temple Emanu-El, where students learned to make matzah balls and hamantaschen—passing down tradition in the most tasteful way possible.
Over time, the way Ann gives back has evolved. “Now that I’m older, I’m more supportive in a financial way,” she shared. Ann says she learned to be giving and loving from her mother.
“I believe philanthropy goes hand in hand with Tikun Olam,” Ann shares. “To help repair the world, we can give of ourselves and, when possible, give financially. Every nonprofit organization requires resources to pursue its mission. Those who can give, should.”
That belief has guided Ann’s longtime involvement with JFS Dallas, particularly the Food Pantry and Kosher Home Delivered Meals program. To her, those small moments are where impact truly happens.
“The Food Pantry is my favorite program,” she says. “Greeting and helping clients with kindness goes a long way toward creating a ‘feel good’ feeling all around.” It’s a reminder that compassion can be just as nourishing as the groceries themselves.
Ann’s support of JFS Dallas, both as a volunteer and a donor, is her personal way of contributing to something larger than herself. “Giving to JFS is my small way of being part of Tikun Olam”.
For those considering getting involved, Ann’s advice is simple and heartfelt. JFS offers many ways to make a difference, whether through long-term commitments like being a regular volunteer in the Food Pantry or shorter-term opportunities such as delivering meals or holiday items. “Take a tour of JFS’s fabulous new facility and find your niche,” she encourages.
This story includes excerpts from an oral history interview with Ann Kahn recorded by the Dallas Jewish Historical Society in September 2012.
