Federation increases community allocations more than 12 percent; $2.1 million to support Jewish programs and services
Scottsdale, AZ (April 15, 2015) – The Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix announced $2.1 million in allocations for the 2015 campaign, nearly a 12 percent increase over last year’s allocations of $1.8 million. This year, nearly $1.7 million was committed to local Jewish programs and services and $445,400 was committed to Israel and Overseas.
“We are so grateful to annual campaign donors for making it possible to have more funds available to help Jews in need and to build vibrant Jewish communities in the Valley, Israel and throughout the world,” said Don Schon, co-chair of the 2015 Annual Campaign. “It is exciting to see the results of our community’s generosity and to see that generosity carry into this year’s campaign.”
Among the local program funding, the Federation’s Organizational Partners received a total of $1,082,800. These agencies are supported as partners for their longevity and impact in the community, as well as their breadth of programming.
School partners received a total of $157,085, each receiving $165 per student enrolled. Of the seven partner schools, Pardes and Torah Jewish day school received additional funding because they increased enrollment. In addition, Pardes received $50,000 to help defray the cost of their move to the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus—a move which has already increased enrollment and positively impacted the community.
The Federation realigned its program funding to focus on three core areas that will significantly impact the community and assure its continued vibrancy: serving seniors, engaging young Jewish adults and advocating for Israel.
Senior services received $65,000, including money to create a community concierge position to help develop a central data base of community resources and to connect seniors with them. The position will be part of JFCS. The need for this position was identified through the Federation’s senior services study completed in December of 2014.
The Federation’s Now Gen initiative seeks to engage young Jewish adults in the. Programs reaching the Now Gen population received $55,000, including Moishe House in Scottsdale—the most successful Moishe House in the country—and Honeymoon Israel.
Advocacy for Israel received $60,000 to help counteract anti-Israel sentiment on ASU campuses and to develop a strong relationship between students and the State of Israel. The Federation’s role in building collaboration was key in initiating a joint program submitted by JAC and Hillel.
Federation programs, including the Israel Center, PJ Library and the Federation’s own NOWGen programs received $267,570.
Internationally, the JAFI and JDC each were among the organizations funded to help Jews in need in Israel and elsewhere overseas.
“The Federation takes its role as stewards of the community’s charitable money very seriously. There are so many incredible Jewish organizations doing great work in the Phoenix area. The CPC spent countless hours evaluating each grant request before determining how to best allocate our limited dollars to ensure funding for our strong partners and for new programs focusing on our impact areas,” said Barry Markson, chairman of the Federation’s Community Planning Commission. “More than 40 volunteers participated in the allocation decision process this year representing every part of the Valley and the Jewish Community. We are fortunate to have so many dedicated individuals who give their time and skill to The Federation and the community.”
The Federation funding structure is comprised of two councils under the oversight of the Community Planning Commission. The funding model was restructured to guarantee the most impactful use of community resources.
Detailed allocation information can be found at jewishphoenix.org/funding.
About the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix
The Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix exists to strengthen and sustain a vibrant, inclusive community that enriches lives through Jewish values, innovation and stewardship. We embrace each generation across all walks of life, and provide funding to services and programs that help develop toddlers, engage children, motivate teens, challenge young adults, inspire adults, connect families and benefit the elderly. Our purpose is to ensure the long-term viability of our Jewish community by providing leadership, financial support, and synergy with other Jewish organizations in Greater Phoenix area, Israel and around the world.
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Media Contact:
Laura Toussaint-Newkirk
ltnewkirk@jewishphoenix.org
480.634.4900 ext. 1122
