Donor Appreciation & Awards Brunch

Medal of Honor recipient Joel Kramer

Joel Kramer is a quiet, but passionate man who through his hard work and dedication, has played a significant role in strengthening our Jewish community and in enriching thousands of lives. He has been board chair of both the Federation and the Valley of the Sun JCC and served in leadership roles with numerous other Jewish and non-Jewish organizations. Joel also has played a meaningful role with the Federation annual campaign, the original campus campaign and continues to serve on the board. Joel is also our first Medal of Honor recipient who was a professional athlete; he played for the Phoenix Suns 1978 – 1983.

We are also proud to honor our outgoing leadership for their service and dedication:

Steven Schwarz – Chairman of the Board
David Weiner – 2016 Campaign Chair
Esther & Don Schon, MD – 2016 Major Gifts Chairs
Julee Landau Shahon – Women’s Philanthropy Chair
Sally Oscherwitz – Women’s Campaign Chair

The Belle Latchman Community Service Award will also be presented.

Guest Speaker Izzy Ezagui

Ezagui is an American-born IDF veteran. At age 18, he lost his dominant arm while serving on the Gaza border during Operation Cast Lead in 2008. Despite the loss, Ezagui was determined to return to combat and he did, within two months. In 2011, Shimon Peres z”l, then president of Israel, awarded him the highest accolade a soldier outside the battlefield can receive.