BJH: Tell us about your roots.
Jerry Wolasky: I was born and raised in the Bronx, specifically in the Riverdale section. My wife is also a New Yorker, from New Rochelle. We met while attending the State University at Albany and started our married life in New York before moving through several cities and ultimately settling in Baltimore in 1992.
BJH: How did your journey to religious observance begin?
JW: Although I had a yeshiva high school background and my wife came from a conservative Jewish home, our path to observance was gradual. When we got married, we decided to attend synagogue on Shabbos, but we were not observant. While living in Virginia, we joined an Orthodox shul, which helped us grow tremendously. Rabbi Shlomo Goder, our rabbi in Norfolk, who was a Talmid of Rabbi Berel Wein, ZT”L, played a particularly meaningful role in that spiritual journey.
BJH: How has faith influenced your professional journey?
JW: I’ve learned that everything ultimately comes from Hashem. While hard work is vital, so is faith—especially during challenges. I remember a time when I was unemployed, and it taught me humility and gratitude. It’s important to recognize that every success and setback is part of a bigger plan.
BJH: You’ve built a successful business. Can you share more about Healthsource Distributors?
JW: After spending 20 years working for national wholesale pharmaceutical companies, I launched Healthsource Distributors in 2002. We distribute prescription products to pharmacies of all types—independent, chain, mail order, long-term care, and even dental offices. Today, we employ about 150 people across the country, many of them right here in the local community.
BJH: What professional advice would you share with aspiring entrepreneurs?
JW: Start with a self-evaluation. Figure out what you know best and where your expertise lies. Most people have a unique area of knowledge that can give them a business edge. When you combine passion with that expertise, success tends to follow naturally.
BJH: Who has been most inspirational in your life?
JW: Rabbi Moshe Hauer ZT”L had a profound impact on our family, and on countless others in our community. His leadership and integrity inspired people to strengthen their connection to Torah, Judaism, and Israel. Even after leaving Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion to join the Orthodox Union, his influence continued to shape lives.
BJH: What inspired your connection to Israel?
JW: When my wife and I got married, we chose to spend our honeymoon in Israel instead of a typical vacation spot. We instantly fell in love with the land and its people. Rabbi Hauer deepened that connection for us by introducing us to organizations like One Israel Fund and helping us understand how much our support matters.
BJH: Tell us about your involvement with One Israel Fund.
JW: One Israel Fund supports communities throughout Yehuda and Shomron—the biblical heartland of Israel. They provide over 200 projects annually in the areas of preventive civilian security and emergency medical equipment and services as well as recreational, educational and communal infrastructure. After October 7th, their work became exponentially more critical. Their flagship project is the building of a state-of-the-art medical center in Sha’ar Binyamin to provide outstanding medical care in an area currently devoid of such services. I’m honored to serve on the Board of Directors, and to support this organization.
BJH: Why did you accept the Keter Shem Tov Award for the upcoming 31st Anniversary Gala?
JW: My wife and I felt that accepting this honor was a way to shine a light on One Israel Fund’s incredible work. Many people in Baltimore aren’t fully aware of what they do. If our involvement helps spread awareness and inspire more support, that’s the greatest reward.
BJH: What keeps you motivated?
JW: I’m motivated by the opportunity to share success and help others. Whether it’s through business, community, or charitable work, I try to use what I’ve been given to make a difference.
BJH: How can readers participate in the Gala or show their support?
JW: The One Israel Fund 31st Anniversary Gala will take place Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in New York City. It’s going to be an incredible evening featuring a concert with Zusha and Aryeh Kunstler, and appearances by Sid Rosenberg, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, and Nathaniel Buzolic.
Anyone who wants to place an ad in our honor, make a contribution, or reserve their spot can visit OneIsraelFund.org/Rise. Every show of support helps strengthen Israel’s communities and protect those living in our homeland’s heartland.
BJH: Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
JW: I’m deeply grateful for the chance to contribute to causes like One Israel Fund. Their mission—to support and protect Israeli communities in our homeland’s heartland—is one we should all feel connected to. It’s a privilege to be part of that effort.
