In 2012, 30 Years After hired its first staff person: Tabby Davoodi, who serves as the executive director. With help from the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, the addition of staff has expanded the professionalism of the organization. Nonetheless, 30 Years After has stayed connected to their volunteer roots by listening to and meeting the wants and needs of the community.

As a whole, the feedback that 30 Years After receives has been “outstandingly positive.” Not only does 30 Years After receive positive feedback from the Jewish community, but also from the non-Persian and non-Jewish communities. These communities have seen 30 Years After as a “bridge to link the gap between the non-Persian community and the Persian Jewish community.” Although there are individuals who have differing views, requests, and expectations, 30 Years After responds equally to all points of view trying to create a balance for all sides.

The biggest lesson the organization has learned is that the goal should not be in terms of numbers. Tabby stated that as years went by, 30 Years After has come to understand the invaluable concept of engagement: “It does not matter how many people attend because if no one walks away from it [more engaged], what is the point of the success [in numbers]?” 30 Years After has changed itself by stepping away from the Iranian mentality of “more is merrier.” In fact, 30 Years After has adapted a “less is more mentality” while focusing on “quality rather than quantity.”

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