So, we blinked and here we are already into the second month of 2018. That means we begin our campaign for Jewish needs anew, and it’s not the same old, same old. Our board recently adopted a new mission statement, To engage and strengthen a vibrant Jewish community while providing for Jews in need locally, in Israel and throughout the world.
The core values have been refreshed as well:
Caring for Jews in need. Wherever Jews are hungry, need medicine, job training, a blanket or a roof over their heads…we are there. Our partner organizations JAFI and JDC are our boots on the ground in Israel, the former Soviet Union and around the world.
Enriching senior lives. At the heart of any Jewish community is the care and concern for our “age-advantaged” population. Our goal is to help them age in place and with Jewish dignity through transportation, connection to services and funding for social programs for our seniors to sing, talk, eat and pray together.
Engaging the next generation. The Torah commands us to teach our children well, as do Crosby, Stills & Nash, for that matter. Engaging Jewish young adults in Judaic life and community ensures our Jewish future. To this end, we fund programs and services that encourage Jewish young adults to become involved in their community and to give Jewishly.
Community engagement. Federation is a conduit to build community and collaboration. We provide opportunities for the community to gather, celebrate, learn and rally together, including bringing the acclaimed “Violins of Hope” to our community for a yearlong series of events and concerts in 2019.
There is a Chinese saying that proclaims, “May you live in Interesting times.” These are very interesting times for our Jewish Federation and our Jewish community. Join us and let’s make these times a blessing for ourselves and our children…now and forever.
Marty Haberer is the executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix.
