.An honor to raise money Federation Commentary
Wishing you and your family a Joyous hanukkah
on behalf of Federation By Jesse Feld Director, Development & Engagement
F
ive years ago, my wife, Anna, and I made the decision to move to Richmond, so I could continue my Jewish communal career with the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. We didn’t have any family or friends in Richmond, and the truth was we had only spent a couple of days here. Friends would ask, “Aren’t you nervous to move to a place where you don’t know anyone?” And, although we knew we’d miss the community we were leaving, our answer was often, “no, with a Jewish community that strong, we know we’ll be surrounded by great people.” Luckily for us, we were right. I’ve always been proud to be Jewish, and being able to carry that pride has always been easy for me. The pride and ease that I’m lucky enough to feel is directly linked to the work of Jewish Federations. The Jewish preschool, day school, overnight camp, teen movements and Hillel program that helped to shape whom I am today, were all supported by community dollars to the Jewish Federation. Working for, donating to, and raising money on behalf of our Jewish Community Federation of Richmond is a distinct honor that means so much to me
The officers, Board of direcT irecTors and sTaff of The JeWish communiTy federaTion of richmond
Jesse Feld . JCFR Photo
every year, and feels even more important during these difficult times we’ve been facing. This being the Federation’s 85th year, makes it so evident the Federation is ‘here for good.’ Both here to stay, and here to do good in, and for our community. Every year, we ask each community member to make a donation to the Federation’s Annual Campaign. Every year, these gifts help sustain historical entities that represent the backbone of our Jewish community, build exciting and innovative ideas to work toward an even more vibrant Jewish future, and support the vulnerable to ensure all members of our community can live with dignity.
This year, of course, is not like every other year. However, our mission is our constant. Sustaining, building and supporting the Jewish community is more relevant than ever, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Our organized Jewish community is not immune to the financial uncertainty that has affected so many. That’s why this year, we are asking everyone to make a donation, and ensure that our community continues to build from strength to strength. Making a gift today has never been easier. You can visit our website at: jewishrichmond.org or send me an email at jfeld@jewishrichmond.org. My family’s decision to move to Richmond five years ago was an easy one because of the strength of this Jewish community. With a little Tzedakah, you have the power to make it even
VIRTUAL SUPER SUNDAY December 6
10 A.M. - 1 P.M.
stronger. For more about Community Chronicles and the Annual Campaign, contact Federation Director of Development Jesse Feld at jfeld@jewishrichmond.org. Happy Hanukkah.
REFLECTOR
THE
How good & pleasant it is for brethren to dwell in unity. The Reflector is published monthly by the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Copy must be received two-and-a-half weeks prior to the date of publication. The Reflector reserves the right to edit or refuse any copy or advertisement submitted. Views expressed by guest writers and reader’s letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Call for information about advertising in The Reflector at 545-8655. Acceptance of advertising does not endorse or guarantee Kashruth. Ellen Renee Adams, President
Daniel Staffenberg, Chief Executive Officer Raymond (Skip) Kozakewicz, Editor Sara Rosenbaum, Director of Impact and Community Planning Jesse Feld, Director of Development and Engagement David Cohen, Director, Jewish Community Relations Meghan Kelly, Marketing Manager
PLEASE ANSWER THE CALL YOUR GIFT HELPS JEWS IN RICHMOND, IN ISRAEL AND AROUND THE WORLD .
2 | the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781
Jewish Community Federation
OF RICHMOND
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