Racie Friedenwald Adler

Racie (Friedenwald) Adler (August 5, 1872 - March 20, 1952) was a Jewish community leader in Philadelphia and a major officer of Philadelphia Red Cross during and after World War I.

Early life Adler was born to Moses and Jane (Alborn) Friedenwald of Baltimore.

Adler was educated at Goucher College.

In September 1905, when Adler was 33, she married Cyrus Adler, then 42. They corresponded frequently, and through these letters it is proved that Adler assisted her husband in his work, including proofreading his manuscripts and accompanying him on travels to Egypt, Palestine, and throughout Europe.

Adler and Cyrus had one daughter, Sarah. Under her leadership, her committee raised millions of dollars for the war. Her work also included repair of soldiers' clothing as well as appeals for donations and funds for equipment. She held this post until 1918.

Adler was a founder of the Jewish Students' Houses (now "Hillel") at University of Pennsylvania and Temple University.

In 1944, Adler was part of the founding leaders of the American Jewish Committee chapter in Philadelphia.

In 1949 she was awarded a plaque from the Armed Services Committee of the Jewish Welfare Board for completion of 25 years of service.

End of Life Adler died at age 79 after suffering from an illness.