Social distancing has brought many families closer. The Kaufman family agrees. Matt tells us, “The quarantine has been particularly interesting for us, since we adopted our puppy, Oliver, on February 29th. Lots of long days, long nights, and lots of clean-up duty. The silver lining is that we are able to share this experience together and Oliver is attached to each one of us.”
Matt and his wife, Amy, have been enjoying life in Parkland for more than 18 years, and are thrilled to share it with their two children, Olivia, 16, and Spencer, 13.
Both professionals, Matt is the VP of an Executive Search firm, and Amy is the CEO of a finance company. Outside of work, Matt is very well-known for his role as President of the Parkland Flag Football Board. He’s been coaching Parkland flag football, soccer and basketball for more than 8 years. He tells us, “Few things are better than taking the team for ice cream after a game. Win or lose, this is where the kids bond and make friendships.” Amy is the Treasurer for Congregation Kol Tikvah.
Olivia attends the 10th grade at North Broward Preparatory School. Her Favorite subjects are math and history. Spencer is in 7th grade at Westglades Middle School, where science and civics pique his interests.
Both active and athletic, Olivia and Spencer stay busy outside of school. For several years, the siblings enjoyed Next Stop Broadway summer camp in Coral Springs. Olivia has been Dancing for 13 years, is Co-Captain of the Mock Trial Team at school, and also enjoys tutoring other kids. Spencer is a valuable teammate with Parkland Flag Football, Soccer, and Basketball.
Most recently, the entire family got together to prove their athletic mettle. Matt says, “We formed Spencer’s Squad and recruited about 40 people to run the Soldier Rush. We plan to make it an annual tradition.”
When life isn’t in lockdown, the Kaufmans especially enjoy traveling together, trying new foods and restaurants, as well as attending live shows and musicals.
Amy reflects about life and Parkland and what she loves the most. “I appreciate the camaraderie. Living here is a shared experience and we look out for each other. You get what you give. Being an active member of the community, whether through school, sports. or our synagogue, has unlocked so many meaningful relationships for our whole family. It’s not the place, it’s the people that make the difference.”
Looking forward to life after quarantine, Amy says, “While we love our time on the fields at Pine Trails Park, it has been great to experience a slower place with fewer activities during this time. We are looking forward to seeing everyone again soon!”
The Kaufmans attend services at Congregation Kol Tikvah.