Sam Devinki

Sam Devinki

I was born in a displaced persons camp in Regensburg, Germany after World War II. My parents brought me to the United States in 1950 at the age of 4. With the help of H.I.A.S. and the Kansas City Jewish Federation, my parents were able to start a new life.

What they created for their three children is truly what is referred to as the “American Dream.” They always appreciated what this country did for them. They contributed to every cause that came to their door. I learned these lessons because of their leadership, and I have tried to follow their example.

After my mother passed away in 2011, I decided to create a philanthropic fund at the Jewish Community Foundation to carry on their legacy and continue to give back to those organizations that make Kansas City and the United States, to quote Ronald Reagan, “that shining city on the hill.” I am grateful that they gave me that opportunity.