No summer slumber

Federation has been hard at work!

Nathaniel Ritter Federation Board Chair

Your Federation has been hard at work all summer long, building on the momentum of last season’s successes and preparing for an even more dynamic year ahead.

Although this year’s “season” may have come to a conclusion at the end of April, the Annual Campaign carried through to the end of our fiscal year on June 30. Thanks to the extraordinary leadership of Vice Chair of Philanthropy Rosalee Bogo, Director of Development Alicia Feldman, and our team of dedicated volunteers and staff, we not only reached our ambitious $1.85 million goal, we exceeded it, raising over $2 million!

And in the wake of the 12-Day War in Iran, our compassionate community once again rose to the occasion. Within just two weeks, we raised an additional $200,000 for Rebuild Israel. Half of those funds were immediately directed through the Jewish Federation of North America to the JDC international organization to address urgent post-war needs.

While others slowed down, our staff and volunteers kept moving. Planning is already well underway for what promises to be an exciting new season. One area receiving renewed attention is our Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), now revitalized with the addition of Director Alan Scher Zagier to our team. Under Zagier’s leadership, the JCRC is expanding its role as a strong and active voice in the Greater Naples community. In this public affairs and community outreach role, Zagier will staff the existing Catholic-Jewish Dialogue Committee, Israel and Overseas Committee, and begin engaging with local, state, and federal agencies on matters impacting Jewish life.

The Jewish Book Festival and Naples Jewish Film Festival Committees have been curating an exciting lineup for the year ahead. At the same time, WCA and MCA kept the summer energy going with fun-filled events like bingo and trivia nights for our local “year-rounders.” Additionally, planning is already underway for the upcoming season, and we’re excited to welcome Debbie Lurie and Darlene Muller as the new WCA Co-Presidents beginning Sept. 1.

Safety remains at the forefront of our mission. President & CEO Nammie Ichilov has partnered with John Murtaugh, our Secure Community Network Regional Advisor, to review our safety protocols in and around our building. Throughout the summer, Murtaugh has led sessions on topics including community safety, “Stop the Bleed,” and travel safety, ensuring that as active members of our community, we are all well-prepared for any potential emergencies.

Lastly, as we prepare to welcome the High Holidays, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot, we give thanks for the blessings of community, family, and shared purpose. May the year ahead bring peace, health, and continued strength to us all.

LaShonah Tovah.