Happy New Year to each and every one of you. This past week, we wrapped up our Jewish High Holidays with Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. I have been especially grateful for the chance to enjoy this beautiful Fall that we are all experiencing. Additionally, I know you all join me in acknowledging how impressive our clergy and synagogues continue to be in providing opportunities that were both creative and meaningful throughout our High Holiday season; they are our partners in building a strong and vibrant Jewish community here in Indianapolis. Thank you all so much!
During our most recent Prystowsky ATID V session, participant Lauren Hewitt delivered a beautiful d’var torah that make me think about the connection between the Federation and my favorite holiday, Sukkot. The Sukkah, which is constructed for the celebration of Sukkot, is a structure with open doors and walls that welcomes people inside to share and spend time together. I figuratively see this shelter as the Federation structure that welcomes people in. The Federation serves as the community connector to all of the wonderful synagogues and organizations in our Jewish community, equally important, the Federation helps by giving shelter to those who are going through hard times.
The pandemic this year has affected so many people, and we need your help. The Federation’s Annual Campaign provides funding right into our own backyard to help so many this year and next year who are suffering from COVID and the economic downturn due to the pandemic, those who are scared because of the significant rise in antisemitism, and those who are feeling isolated and alone in their homes. In addition to the Annual Campaign funds we raise each year, to raise additional dollars to support human service needs for communities across the country during this pandemic, Jewish Federations of North America created the Human Services Relief Matching Fund. Every eligible dollar donated to our Jewish Federation will be matched by the JFNA Human Services Relief Matching Fund at 50 percent. Gifts are eligible if a donor’s intent is to support human services, and donors must be either increasing their existing gift (only the increase in the amount will be matched), be a first-time donor, or not have made a gift to our Annual Campaign in the past 18 months.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis is currently eligible to receive up to $60,000 in matching funds through this national program. To do so, JFGI needs your help to raise $120,000 in new and increased gifts, adding $180,000 to the community’s efforts to support much-needed human services in the Greater Indianapolis Jewish Community.
Please help us meet the critical needs of Jewish community members most affected by the current crisis by donating to the Annual Campaign between now and the end of the year.
Shabbat Shalom and Warm Wishes,
Debby
Your gift to JFGI makes the programs and services in this e-blast possible.
