donor news winter 2011-2012

Don rNEWSG R E A T E R M I A M I J E W I S H F E D E R A T I O N

Innovation, Inspiration& Initiative:

“Innovation is not a matter of just beingdifferent. But it is understandingchanges taking place around us,and adapting the way we respond,”said Barbara Black Goldfarb,Board Chair of the Greater MiamiJewish Federation. “It is looking atthings that may not be working aswell as they could be and asking, ‘Howcan we make it better?’ It is not just planningfor the future, but also helping to create it.”

Touching Jewish Lives.

Building Jewish Community.

Winter 2011-2012

Tevet/Shevat 5772

Read more on page 2

Finding New Waysto Touch Jewish Lives

TheCommunity

Post®

INSIDE

Ready to Take theJourney of aLifetime?

JCRC: EducatingAbout Israel

Upcoming Events:Mark YourCalendar Now!

MIAMIMEGA

MISSI NISRAEL2012

April 22 – May 1, 2012

The Mission of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation is to mobilize human and financial

resources to care for those in need, strengthen Jewish life and advance the unity, values

and shared purpose of the Jewish people in Miami, in Israel and around the world.

Connect with your community on JewishMiami.org

They say that necessity is the mother ofinvention. We at Federation would agree. In thisissue of Donor News, you will learn about avariety of programs, both led by Federation andin cooperation with our partner agencies, thatallow us to better care for the vulnerable, sharean appreciation of our heritage with ourchildren, and engage a new generation of Jews.

One of Federation’s most importantupcoming programs is the Miami MegaMission, which will take place from April 22 toMay 1, 2012. During that time, 800 members ofour Jewish community will travel together toIsrael. We are especially fortunate that SabyBehar, a Past President of our Federation andthe newly appointed Chair of The JewishFederations of North America’s Israel andOverseas Committee, is serving as our MegaMission Chair. This trip will be a specialopportunity to discover more about Israel; tocommemorate Yom Hazikaron (Israel’sMemorial Day) and celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut(Israel’s Independence Day); and to learn aboutMiami’s strong connection with the land andpeople of Israel. Whether or not you have beento Israel, please consider joining us on thisonce-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand with

members of our community in Israel this spring.Read more about the Miami Mega Mission onpage 9.

The Talmud tells us that if one saves alife, it’s as if one has saved an entire world. Withthe release of IDF Sergeant Major Gilad Shalit,who was held in captivity for 1,941 days, Israeldemonstrated just how precious one man’s lifetruly is. Together, we stand with Jewish peopleeverywhere, ready to protect and care for them inthe same way that Israel has protected and caredfor its own citizens, even under the mostdifficult circumstances.

As you read this issue of Donor News,we hope you will be as excited about theinnovations taking place as we are. It isbecause of your gift to the Annual Federation/UJACampaign – and the vision of the leadership ofour community – that we are able to sustainprograms that save and improve thousands oflives each day. And by establishing new andexciting initiatives, particularly ones that engageyounger generations in the Jewish community, weensure that Federation will be able to fulfill itsMission of strengthening Jewish life for manyyears to come. Thank you for yourcontinued support.

As Federation remains committed to our Mission of helpingJews in need, groundbreaking new programs and services are helpingus address emerging challenges and embrace the future.

Building CommunityThrough Creativity

Jacob SolomonPresident and CEO

Brian L. BilzinGeneral Campaign Chair

Barbara Black GoldfarbChair of the Board

Greater MiamiJewish Federation

Barbara Black GoldfarbChair of the Board

Brian L. BilzinGeneral Campaign Chair

Jacob SolomonPresident and Chief Executive Officer

Jeffrey Y. LevinChief Development Officer .....................................

David M. ScharlinCommunications Chair

Bonnie Reiter-LehrerChief Communications & Marketing Officer

Nicole Marshal OzerAssistant Director of Communications& Marketing

Leslie RosenbergSenior Communications & MarketingAssociate

Emily MirengoffCommunications Associate

.....................................

Myron J. “Mike” BrodieExecutive Vice President Emeritus

John M. Bussel | ChairStephen C. Lande, J.D. | Director

4200 Biscayne Boulevard

Miami, Florida 33137

305.576.4000

JewishMiami.org

To make a gift, please use theenclosed envelope. You may alsocontact the Greater Miami JewishFederation at 305.576.4000 orvisit JewishMiami.org/donornews.

1 | GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION | DONOR NEWS

GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION | DONOR NEWS | COVER STORY | 2


WHEN ONE IS ASKED to name an innovativeorganization, a nearly 74-year-old Jewishnonprofit may not be the first thing that springsto mind. Yet, Federation is a multifacetedorganization that is widely respected forinspiring ideas, philanthropy and communitycollaboration.

“It starts with our volunteerleadership,” said Jacob Solomon, FederationPresident and CEO, “people who dedicate theirtime and resources to generously support thework of Federation. We are tremendouslygrateful for their knowledge and vision.”

In fact, such support of the AnnualFederation/UJA Campaign makes it possibleto provide funding for 110 social-service,humanitarian and educational programs andagencies that bring help and hope to so manyin need.

“With this safety net of Federation-funded programs and services in place, we aremaking a difference in the lives of thousands ofpeople each day. We are also able to respond at amoment’s notice to extraordinary situations, fromacts of terrorism and war to an economicdownturn, to a natural disaster,” said Solomon.

And while Federation is caring for themost vulnerable, we are also working withsynagogues and other Jewish and communityinstitutions to strengthen Jewish life, advanceJewish values and speak out against socialinjustice.

“Collective support of the AnnualCampaign is what enables us to creativelyconfront a variety of challenges,” said FederationBoard Chair Barbara Black Goldfarb. “Through ourongoing relationships with local and overseasorganizations, we have trusted partners withwhom we can share ideas, launch new projects orask for assistance.”

Consider, for example, how suchcollaboration helped one vital social-serviceprogram come into existence. When it becameapparent that the economic downturn wouldcontinue to wreak havoc on Miami-Dade’sworkforce for some time, Federation sought amore effective way to assist job-seekers.

In March 2010, Federation partneredwith Jewish Community Services of South Florida(JCS) to launch ParnossahWorks Miami, a free jobservice that was working well in other U.S. cities.

Funded through supplemental gifts,ParnossahWorks Miami offers Jewish job-seekers

EACH DAY, THE GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION works with partners in our Jewish community

to find solutions to a wide range of important issues. Caring for the vulnerable remains at the heart of

Federation’s Mission, and our volunteers and professionals are continually seeking better ways to deliver

life-sustaining assistance. Yet, at the same time, we are addressing important challenges, including enhancing

our ability to engage a new generation of Jews. Read how your Federation is supporting innovative programs

and services in Miami, in Israel and worldwide to advance Jewish life, and how you make it all possible.

(Continued on page 3)

the ability to review online job postings andregister for career seminars, as well as receivepersonalized support. Candidates meet one-on-one with a career counselor for resume writingassistance and to discuss job-hunting strategies. And, because ParnossahWorks professionalsscreen applicants, employers save time withstaffing.

Last year, ParnossahWorks Miamiregistered 639 job-seekers, offered 365 face-to-face meetings with career counselors, and helpedmore than 170 people gain employment.

“The Annual Campaign will always beour primary fundraising focus,” said Brian L.Bilzin, General Campaign Chair, “as it enables usto address the largest number of issues and helpthe largest number of people. At the same time,supplemental gifts are underwriting projects thathelp satisfy unmet needs, assist specialpopulations and support programs of significanceto donors.”

In Israel, supplemental gifts are beingused in conjunction with Annual Campaignallocations to help fund the Women’s AmutotInitiative, which supports nonprofit organizations(amutot) that focus on the needs and welfare ofwomen and children.

Back in 2002, as Israelis were sufferinga large number of terror attacks, Miami’s Jewishcommunity raised millions of dollars through aspecial Israel Emergency Fund (IEF) to provide

Innovation,Inspiration& Initiative

Achoti (Sister) – for Women in Israel is aFederation-funded amutah (nonprofit organization)that, among other efforts, helps empowermarginalized Israeli women by teaching them toturn their skills into profitable trades.

Since its inception in 2010, ParnossahWorksMiami has helped prepare hundreds of Miami-Dade job-seekers for the challengingemployment market.

3 | GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERAT ION | DONOR NEWS | COVER STORY


assistance. Recognizing that some alreadyvulnerable Israeli women and children wereexperiencing particular hardship, a group ofwomen at Federation worked to ensure that aportion of the IEF went to help this population.Thus, the Women’s Amutot Initiative was born.

Launched with a focus on economicempowerment and to help domestic abusevictims, the Initiative has expanded to includesocial empowerment, protection against andprevention of violence, and leadershipdevelopment. A panel of 25 Miami volunteerwomen reviews proposals from nonprofits whoseprograms meet the Initiative’s criteria beforemaking funding decisions. The long-termobjective is to create social change with a realand lasting impact on Israeli society.

As an example, through the Initiative,Federation has been able to effect change inhow Israeli institutions assist rape or domesticabuse victims in Israel’s Negev region.Previously, distressed women had to travel hoursfor examination following a report of abuse.Through Federation-funded efforts by one of theamutot, medical and psychological services arenow available much closer to home.

Entering its 10th year of operation, theInitiative is an integral part of Federation’s

Israel and Overseas Department, funding 19women’s programs. And while many other Jewishcommunities support services benefitting womenand children, Miami is the only one whoseWomen’s Amutot Initiative receives a yearlyallocation from the Annual Campaign and focusesexclusively on Israel.

LINKING GENERATIONS,MAKING CONNECTIONSAS FEDERATION AND OUR PARTNER AGENCIESare helping those in need, we are also seekingmeaningful ways to connect Jews of differentgenerations and backgrounds.

Federation’s Jewish Volunteer Center (JVC)has been teaching Bar and Bat Mitzvah studentsthe meaning of tzedakah through a community-service program called the Young Lion of Judah.Last year, for the first time, JVC partnered withthe Holocaust Memorial of the Greater Miami JewishFederation to pair 25 B’nai Mitzvah students with25 Holocaust survivors.

During monthly gatherings, the students,their parents and the survivors spent timeexploring lessons of the Holocaust andparticipating in mitzvah projects. The results werea greater understanding among the generationsand the development of new friendships.

This past summer, Miami joined withother Jewish federations to help fund anothergroundbreaking program – a Taglit-Birthright Israeladventure for special-needs young adults. Sincethe inception of Taglit-Birthright Israel in 2000,more than 300,000 young adults from 52countries – including 4,000 participants fromMiami – have benefitted from the program, whichoffers free, first-time, peer-group, educational

trips to Israel for Jewish adults, ages 18 to 26.Every year, the Annual Campaign provides anallocation to Taglit-Birthright Israel.

While Birthright is usually unable toaccommodate participants with special needs,supplemental funding and other resources cametogether to underwrite five buses for people withphysical and developmental disabilities. Therewere separate trips for the deaf or hard ofhearing; those confined to wheelchairs; the blindor visually impaired; high functioning autisticindividuals; and individuals with cognitive orphysical disabilities. Assisted every step of theway by social workers, sign language translators,occupational therapists and other highlyspecialized professionals, participants were ableto enjoy the full Birthright Israel experience. Withadditional funding, Miami looks forward tooffering more of these trips in the coming years.

BUILDING NEW GENERATIONSOF COMMITTED JEWS

THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS with visionaryindividuals and organizations, Federation hasbeen able to foster a love of Jewish tradition anda strong sense of Jewish identity in participantsfrom infancy through college and beyond.

PJ Library® delivers free, high-qualityJewish children’s literature and music to thefamilies of children six months to eight years old.Conceived and launched nationally by the HaroldGrinspoon Foundation, PJ Library® came to Miamiin 2008 and has set standards of collaborationthat other communities now follow.

To introduce the program locally,Federation worked closely with the Center for theAdvancement of Jewish Education (CAJE), early

A participant on the Federation-funded “No Limits”Birthright trip for those with special needs is allsmiles as she zip-lines in Israel.

Innovation, Inspiration & Initiative

Jonathan Kravitz and Tobi Ash, Co-Chairs of the2nd Annual Everything... but the Turkey, avolunteer opportunity created by Federation’sJewish Volunteer Center (JVC).

(Continued from page 2)

Holocaust survivor Lea Roth (center) shares herexperiences with Mytyl Simancas-Bister and herson, Danny, as part of the intergenerational YoungLion of Judah program.

“In today’s world, with so manyoptions available, it will take muchmore to engage people. It will takeinnovation, inspiration and initiativeto keep us strong.”

– Jacob Solomon

GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION | DONOR NEWS | 4


Programs like Moishe House Miami are bringingtogether post-college adults looking to further theirinvolvement in the Jewish community.

childhood education centers, schools,synagogues and other “implementing partners”to ensure community-wide enrollment andparticipation.

In addition to the free books and CDsmailed to 2,500 young subscribers and theirparents each month, PJ Library® presentsspecial events – storytimes, holiday celebrationsand other gatherings – at community venues. Recently, PJ Library® also added “PJ Goes toSchool,” enabling teachers in Early ChildhoodEducation programs to use PJ Library® booksto enrich and extend their curricula,strengthening the bonds between home andschool for students and families.

While it is often easier for families toshare Jewish ideas and holidays when theirchildren are still living at home, doing sobecomes more challenging when students gooff to college. This is why Federation providesfunding each year to Hillel: The Foundation forJewish Campus Life at seven campuses acrossFlorida.

According to the Jewish EngagementCommission – a Federation initiative to involvemore Jews from different backgrounds – thereare limited opportunities for Jewish adults inMiami after college. The Commission identifiedan international organization called MoisheHouse as an innovative model to attract Jewishyoung adults.

Now, a downtown Miami high-riseapartment is the base for Moishe House Miami.Three residents, ages 23 to 25, receivea rent subsidy, a Jewish library and aprogramming budget in exchange for hosting atleast 60 programs that will draw a total of morethan 1,000 participants annually. Since movingin at the end of September, the Moishe House

Miami residents have held Shabbat dinners andholiday celebrations. Plans for monthly programswill also include Jewish culture, social events,Jewish learning, and advocacy/community-serviceactivities.

Through gifts from a private foundationand Federation donors, Moishe House Miami hasreceived funding for its first three years ofoperation. It is hoped that Moishe House Miamiwill serve as a hub for young adults to be part of astronger, more vibrant Jewish community.

The Federation-funded PJ Library ® brings Jewishvalues home to families across Miami-Dade Countythrough free Jewish books and music.

“As we begin to approach ourFederation’s 75th anniversary, it is important thatwe maintain our commitment to the generationswho have worked to build our Jewish communityand to create the programs and services that somany depend upon every day,” said Solomon. “It is also our obligation to connect with Jewishpeople of all ages and backgrounds.

“In today’s world, with so many optionsavailable, it will take much more to engagepeople,” he continued. “It will take innovation,inspiration and initiative to keep us strong.”

Community Volunteer Activities

AS THE CENTRAL CLEARINGHOUSE forvolunteerism in Miami’s Jewish community,Federation’s Jewish Volunteer Center (JVC) workscollaboratively with local organizations towelcome hands-on involvement. Two annualtraditions are “Everything... but the Turkey,”during which volunteers prepare Thanksgivingside dishes for those in need; and JewishCommunity Volunteer Day, offering a variety ofactivities on or near December 25. Registrationfor these popular volunteer programs typicallyfills up very quickly, and participants greatlyenjoy the chance to lend a helping hand. To learnmore, email [email protected] or call786.866.8414.

The Community Post® provides the opportunity forpeople to post their own online news abouthappenings in Miami’s Jewish community.

(Continued on page 5)

INSPIRING OPPORTUNITIES FOR JEWISH ENGAGEMENTFROM THE CLASSROOM TO THE BOARDROOM, to the Internet and beyond,members of our Jewish community are finding more ways to connect withone another. Here are nine additional initiatives funded through your supportof the Greater Miami Jewish Federation.

The Community Post ®

ALONG WITH the January 2011 re-launch ofJewishMiami.org came the kick-off of TheCommunity Post ®, the first online, user-generatedJewish community newspaper, which invitessynagogues, agencies, nonprofit organizations andindividuals to share news about upcoming events,recent accomplishments and more. Since itsintroduction, thousands of people have addedtheir voices to The Community Post ®, and thetrademarked online publication now boasts morethan 100,000 views a month. The concept is soexciting that several other U.S. Jewishcommunities have expressed interest in havingtheir own Community Post ®. Start posting andreading at TheCommunityPost.org.

Finding New Ways to Touch Jewish Lives



JAFI Israel Fellows Program

IN PARTNERSHIP with the Jewish Agency forIsrael (JAFI), and through a specialsupplemental gift from Miami donors,Federation is supporting the JAFI Israel FellowsProgram, which has brought an Israeli shaliach(emissary) to the University of Miami. As thefirst JAFI emissary to come to Miami in thiscapacity, the shaliach is housed at Hillel andcollaborating for a year with the professionalstaff to present a variety of programs thatinform UM students about issues such as anti-Semitism, discrimination and the challengesfacing Israel.

The Jewish LensAN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM introduced toMiami by Federation and CAJE, The Jewish Lensenables teens to use photography to observethemselves in their own culture, to discover howthey relate to Jewish peoplehood and to learnimportant Jewish values. Through specialfunding, the program launched this fall formiddle- and high-school students in eightMiami-Dade Jewish schools and programs, alongwith two schools in Miami’s partnership city ofYerucham in Israel’s Negev region. The programwill culminate in an end-of-year exhibition ofstudent work. To learn more, [email protected] or call786.866.8495.

The Network

WHEN FEDERATION realized that “YoungLeadership Division” sounded like a boringtraining program for 20-year-olds, it was time for anew look. At the suggestion of Federation leaders,the division was re-introduced as “The Network” – aname that better reflects the opportunities itprovides for like-minded people to meet throughsocial action and networking activities. Comprisingnumerous “sub-Networks” – such as the TwentiesNetwork, the Real Estate Network and theAttorneys’ Network – this highly popular Federationdivision now attracts more than 3,000 members,ages 22 to 39, and welcomes hundreds ofparticipants to its events annually. To learn more,email [email protected] or call786.866.8446.

Refuat Ha-Nefesh

TO SERVE THE MEMBERS of Miami’s Jewishcommunity who are in need of spiritual supportand companionship, Federation’s Jewish ChaplaincyProgram created the Refuat Ha-Nefesh JewishSpiritual Care Visiting Program. Now in its fourthyear, this extraordinary, free program provides sixmonths of interactive training, mentoring and on-site visits for volunteers. Working with rabbis,social workers and gerontologists, participantslearn how to bring comfort to the sick and infirm –

and, to their surprise, they also find themselvesbeing personally transformed. Last year, RefuatHa-Nefesh graduated 32 volunteers, who spentnearly 1,500 hours visiting people in institutionaland home settings.To learn more, [email protected] or call786.866.8620.

ShinShinYoung EmissariesProgram

THIS FALL, for the second consecutive year,Federation has welcomed to Miami two highschool graduates from Yerucham. As part of theShinShin Program implemented by our Israel andOverseas Department, the pair will spend 10months in our community, visiting Jewish dayschools, synagogue religious schools, youthgroups, JCCs, senior living facilities and otherorganizations – all while promoting cultural andeducational connections. In addition to offeringa variety of Israeli programming, the ShinShinreport back to the Yerucham newspaper withwritten accounts of their experiences. Theprogram is just one of many initiatives that ishelping to strengthen the people-to-peoplerelationships between our Jewish communityand Yerucham.To learn more, [email protected] or call786.866.8445.

Innovation, Inspiration & Initiative (Continued from page 4)

The Jewish Lens challenges students in Miami andother communities to capture their feelings aboutJewish life through photography.

Miami students of all ages are learning about Israelthrough school visits by young emissaries fromMiami's partnership city of Yerucham, Israel.

Alexander Schapiro and Rachel Adler, TwentiesNetwork Vice Chairs, and Jonathan Raiffe,The Network’s Missions & Conferences Chair, ata recent “Rush Hour” gathering presented byThe Network at a local art gallery.

...programs that inform UM studentsabout issues such as anti-Semitism,discrimination and the challengesfacing Israel.

Working with rabbis, socialworkers and gerontologists,participants learn how to bringcomfort to the sick and infirm...

GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION | DONOR NEWS | 65 | GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION | DONOR NEWS


Wexner Institute

MIAMI’S JEWISH COMMUNITY became host thisyear to the Wexner Heritage Program, the mostprestigious Jewish leadership and literacy programin the nation. For two years, 20 carefully selectedMiami participants will meet with top Jewishscholars, rabbis and professional leaders. Theintensive agenda is designed to help them increasetheir Jewish knowledge, and to explore leadershipin today’s Jewish community – and what will berequired to ensure a strong Jewish future.

Refuat Ha-Nefesh participants celebrate completion of their six-month training. Said one graduate, “This program is truly an opportunity to give as well as receive.”

In these challenging times, the Jewish community is here for you.

Call the Jewish community’s24-hour helpline at 305-576-6550.

Administered by Jewish Community Services of South Florida, this confidentialhelpline is staffed by knowledgeable and experienced professionals who areready to guide you to the services and information you need.

Greater Miami Jewish Federation

WE CAN HELP if you orsomeone you know needs:

n EMERGENCY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

n FOOD

n FAMILY AND INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING

n REHABILITATION

n EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE

n HOME HEALTH CARE

n STRESS MANAGEMENT

n DOMESTIC ABUSE ASSISTANCE

n ADDICTION COUNSELING

n BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

Finding New Ways to Touch Jewish Lives

Women in the Boardroom

OFFERED THROUGH FEDERATION’S Women’sPhilanthropy for business and professional women,this engaging speaker and networking seriesprovides an opportunity to explore business topicsand issues of concern to the Jewish people, and todiscuss Federation’s work worldwide. To learnmore, email [email protected] or call786.866.8440.

To further explore the topicsmentioned in Donor News, or to readabout other programs and servicesfunded through your generoussupport of the Annual Greater MiamiJewish Federation/UJA Campaign,please visit JewishMiami.org.



Connect with your community at JewishMiami.org

GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION | DONOR NEWS 5

YOU CAN CREATE A LEGACY THAT WILL ADVANCEJEWISH LIFE TOMORROW.

THE FOUNDATION can help you transform your vision for the Jewish future into inspiring philanthropythat will last forever. It doesn’t take a great deal of wealth to create a wealth of meaningful programs.

All it takes is a desire to make a difference.

Help advance Jewish life in Miami, in Israel and worldwide.

Call us at 786-866-8623 or email [email protected] a confidential consultation, today.

The place to create your lasting Jewish legacy.

JewishMiami.org

The JCRC has concentrated its efforts into threemain strategies: advocacy, education andengagement, enabling members of Miami’s Jewishcommunity to learn about Israel and its struggles,and take appropriate action.

One example of the first strategy is therecent effort undertaken in response to thePalestinian Authority’s proposed resolution thatthe United Nations recognize Palestine as a fullmember. The resolution calls for a Palestinianstate based on the 1967 borders, which wouldinclude the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. Italso repudiates a core principle of the peaceprocess – that the solution to the conflict can onlybe the result of direct, bilateral negotiationsbetween the Israelis and Palestinians. It violatesprevious peace agreements between the Israelisand Palestinians that rejected unilateral action byeither party, and leaves unresolved the criticaldisputed issues of Jerusalem, refugees, bordersand settlements.

To raise awareness of the resolution,known as the Unilateral Declaration ofIndependence (UDI), the JCRC sent

educational emails and Action Alerts to thecommunity. The JCRC also co-sponsored the JewishCouncil for Public Affairs’ UDI petition, whichreceived more than 100,000 signatures. Furthermore,the Miami JCRC has coordinated the efforts of thefour South Florida JCRCs to represent Israel’sinterests with various Consuls General in Miami,urging them to convince their governments to vote“no” on this resolution.

In addition toadvocacy, the JCRC reliesupon educational tools toteach the communityabout Israel’s history andculture as well as tocombat misconceptionsabout the politicalsituation in the MiddleEast. The JCRC iscurrently offering afree video-basedmini-course featuringworld-renowned expertson Israel and theMiddle East.

Among the resources available:

• A documentary film entitled Crossingthe Line that exposes delegitimization efforts,particularly on college campuses

• A four-part series consisting of short films andrecorded lectures by world-renowned experts,which discuss Israel’s history, culture, andrelationship to the West

• Facilitator discussion questions and materialsfor each of the mini-course films and recordedlectures

The videos are available on DVDs for groupscreenings year-round, and some of the videos willbe available for individual viewing atJerusalemOnlineUniversity.com. The free course wascreated in response to discussions that were held inthe aftermath of JCRC’s Community Summit –“Combating the Campaign to Delegitimize Israel”– in January 2011.

The JCRC recognizes that Israel has manysupporters outside of the Jewish community, andthat bringing those people together and engagingthem on a personal level strengthens the pro-Israelcommunity. This past August, Jews and Christianscame together for an evening where members ofdifferent faiths stood as one with the State of Israel.

The program, which was co-sponsored by theGreater Miami Jewish Federation and the BrowardPastors Network, demonstrated the power ofinterfaith solidarity. The featured speakers includedIsraeli Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalonand members of Congress.

The JCRC offers a multitude of ways toget involved in Jewish advocacy. To learn moreabout the JCRC and its Israel advocacyefforts, visit JewishMiami.org, [email protected] call 786.866.8486.

The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of the Greater Miami JewishFederation uses grassroots advocacy to promote social justice, raise awareness ofpressing social issues and garner support for Israel.

At a time when Israel’s very survival is being challenged by regimes andcampaigns that question its right to exist, the work of the JCRC is crucial.

Representatives from the Israel Action Network, Jewish Councilfor Public Affairs and The Jewish Federations of North Americastand beside the petition opposing the Palestinian UDI

Congresswoman Debbie WassermanSchultz (D-FL), Congressman MarioDiaz-Balart (R-FL), Israeli DeputyForeign Minister Danny Ayalon andCongressman Ted Deutch (D-FL) atthe South Florida Summit for Israel



JCRC EDUCATES ANDENGAGES COMMUNITYIN SUPPORT OF ISRAEL

FEDERATION IS FILLING the nine-day itinerarywith activities and encounters that will inspire andimpress even the most seasoned traveler. Participantswill have the opportunity to travel across Israel,including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Northern Israel andthe Negev; visit museums, historical and religioussites, and an IDF base; meet with Israeli leaders andexperts; AND still have time for shopping andoutdoor excursions.

“This is going to be the trip of a lifetime,” saidFederation Board Chair Barbara BlackGoldfarb. “People will not only feel connected tothe land of Israel, but also to their Jewish heart andsoul and to Federation’s meaningful work in Israel.”

The highlights of the Mega Mission itinerary willbe five spectacular and unforgettable Mega Events.While Mission-goers will travel each day with theirown buses to separate places of interest, allparticipants will gather for the Mega Events,which will feature world-renowned Israelientertainers, high-level guest speakers andbreathtaking surprises.

“The Mega Events are big in scope. There is first-rateentertainment, surprises in store for participants,and things that will make the Mega Missionmemorable for everyone,” said Saby Behar,Miami Mega Mission Israel 2012 Chairand a veteran of many Israel missions, includingtwo Mega Missions.

Plans for the Mega Events include:• A warm welcome by Jerusalem Mayor NirBarkat, a solidarity parade to the JaffaGate, a spectacular musical performance and adelicious dinner buffet featuring local delicacies

• An evening of food and wine on the grounds ofthe newly renovated Israel Museum and itsShrine of the Book, which houses the Dead SeaScrolls and other rare manuscripts. The night willculminate with a performance by the legendarysinger Shuly Nathan, who made Jerusalemof Gold popular worldwide.



FROM APRIL 22 THROUGH MAY1, 2012, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation is taking 800 members of ourJewish community on Miami Mega Mission Israel 2012. This transformational journey across Israel includes observanceof Yom Hazikaron (Israeli’s Memorial Day) and celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day).A partnership with Miami synagogues is making the Mega Mission a true community-wide experience.

MIAMIMEGA

MISSI NISRAEL2012

April 22 – May 1, 2012

Miami MegaMission Israel2012 Promises

to Be theJourney ofa Lifetime

AREYOU GOING?

• A memorable Masada experience, followedby dinner beneath the desert stars and anextraordinary performance by dynamic Israelisinger Einat Sarouf

• A bustling street fair at the stunning BeitShe’an Archaeological Park with waresfrom Israeli artisans, street performers and anarray of tempting foods, culminating with aperformance by the illustrious Broadway andstage entertainer Dudu Fisher of traditionaland contemporary songs in the 2,000-year-oldRoman amphitheater

• A farewell party at S’dot Yam near Caesarea,where participants will gather to watch the sun setover the Mediterranean and share memories asthey enjoy a family-style dinner, drinks, dancing,music and more.

To view the fullMega Mission itinerary, visitMiamiMegaMission2012.org.Prices for Miami Mega Mission start at just $3,600per person (double occupancy, space limited)including non-stop, round-trip charter flight; $2,500per person (double occupancy, land only) and$1,800 for individuals ages 22-39 (doubleoccupancy, land only). Included in all packages areluxury accommodations, most meals, individualbus tours and excursions, and all Mega Events.Charter packages are subject to a $300 fuelsurcharge per person. Participants will also be askedto make a meaningful contribution to the AnnualFederation/UJA Campaign. The itinerary is subjectto change.

As Donor News goes to press, more than 625 peoplehave already registered for Miami Mega MissionIsrael 2012. Space is still available, but going fast.For more information or to secure a place on theMiami Mega Mission, contactKaty Boyask,Mega Mission Manager, at 786.866.8466 [email protected].



Please mark your calendarand plan to join us for

these important community events.Upcoming Events

A NIGHT TO CELEBRATE COMMUNITY.A NIGHT TO CELEBRATE ISRAEL.

STEPHANIE AND JULES TRUMP, CHAIRS

Couvert (not tax-deductible) $95 per person;$54 per person age 30 and under.

A $1,000 suggested minimum gift to the2012 Greater Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign

($365 age 30 and under) is requested.

Dietary laws observed. Business attire.Valet and self-parking available.

For more information, please call 786.866.8416.You may also RSVP online at JewishMiami.org.

Honor ingPROFESSOR ALAN M. DERSHOWITZWITH THE GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION

2012 FRIEND OF ISRAELHUMANITARIAN AWARD

JOIN US FOR DINNERTHURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012

AT 5:30 P.M.HILTON MIAMI DOWNTOWN1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

HONORING:Judge Alan S. GoldLifetime Achievement AwardJudge Gill S. FreemanCommunity Service AwardRobert C. Josefsberg, Esq.Honorable Theodore “Ted” Klein Award

5:30 P.M. Program followed by kosher Cocktail ReceptionJungle Island – 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, MiamiCouvert (not tax-deductible as a charitable contribution) $85 per personFor more information, please call 786.866.8625.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

• Help raise funds for ourJewish community at ourlargest phonathon of the year

• Enjoy activities forthe entire family

• Receive volunteerservice hours

9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.Greater Miami Jewish Federation4200 Biscayne Boulevard, MiamiFor more information,please call 786.866.8680.

28thAnnualJudicialReception

SUPER SUNDAY

Non-Profit Org.U.S. PostagePAIDPerm

it No. 93M

iami, Florida

Stanley C. Myers Building | 4200 Biscayne Boulevard | Miami, FL 33137

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLINGTOLL FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

CH 435. 100% OF EACH CONTRIBUTION IS USED TO CARRY OUT THE MISSION OF THE GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION.

GREATER M

IAM

I JEW

ISH FEDERATIO

N

Don rN

EWS

Local Programs and Agencies • Alexander Muss High School in Israel• Association for Jewish Special Education• BBYO• Beth David/Gordon Day School• Center for the Advancement of Jewish Education• Dave and Mary Alper Jewish Community Center

on The Jay Morton-Levinthal Campus• Day School Hardship Scholarships• Destination Israel of the Greater Miami Jewish

Federation• Galbut Family Miami Beach Jewish

Community Center• Hebrew Academy (RASG)• Hebrew Free Loan Association of South Florida• High Holiday Welcome Program of the Greater

Miami Jewish Federation• Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life

(seven Florida campuses)• Hochberg Preparatory: A Solomon Schechter

Day School at Beth Torah Benny Rok Campus• Holocaust Documentation and Education Center• Holocaust Memorial of the Greater Miami

Jewish Federation• Israel Programs: Passport to Israel, Taglit-

Birthright Israel, Israel Scholarships• Jacobson Sinai Academy• Jewish Chaplaincy Program of the Greater

Miami Jewish Federation• Jewish Community Relations Council of the

Greater Miami Jewish Federation• Jewish Community Services of South Florida• Jewish Community Services/Access

and Information• Jewish Federation Housing• Jewish Museum of Florida• Jewish Volunteer Center of the Greater Miami

Jewish Federation

Through your ONE generous gift to the AnnualGreater Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign,you are helping to fund a vital lifeline ofservices provided by 110 Federation agenciesand programs in Miami, in Israel and aroundthe world. Thank you for your support.

• Kesher L.D.• Lehrman Community Day School• Mechina of South Florida High School• Miami Jewish Health Systems• Michael-Ann Russell Jewish Community

Center on the Sanford L. Ziff Campus• Mount Sinai Medical Center• Organization for Leadership Advancement

in Miami of the Greater Miami JewishFederation

• Overnight Camp Scholarships• ParnossahWorks Miami• Samuel Scheck Hillel Community Day

School• Shaarei Bina – Torah Academy for Girls• Sue & Leonard Miller Center for

Contemporary Judaic Studies at theUniversity of Miami

• Synagogue School SupplementalScholarship Program

• Teacher Fringe Benefits Program• Temple Beth Am Day School• Toras Emes Academy of Miami• Yeshiva Elementary School

National Programs and Services • American Jewish Committee• American Jewish World Service• Anti-Defamation League• Association of Jewish Family & Children’s

Agencies• BBYO (National)• Clal - The National Jewish Center for

Learning and Leadership• Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society• Hebrew Union College School of Jewish

Communal Service• Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish

Campus Life

• Hornstein Jewish Professional LeadershipProgram at Brandeis University

• Israel Action Network• Jewish Community Centers Association

of North America• Jewish Council for Public Affairs• Jewish Education Service of North America• Jewish Labor Committee• Jewish Telegraphic Agency• Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A.• National Foundation for Jewish Culture• NCSJ: Advocates on Behalf of Jews in Russia,

Ukraine, Baltic States and Eurasia• Project Interchange, an institute of the

American Jewish Committee• Secure Community Network• World Council of Jewish Communal Service• Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva

University

Overseas Programs and Services/The Jewish Federations of NorthAmerica• American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee• Beit Issie Shapiro• Elderly Welfare in the former Soviet Union• Ethiopian National Project• Food Insecurity Amutot in Israel• Jewish Agency for Israel• MASA• Partnership Initiatives in the cities of

Or Akiva, Pardes Channa-Karkur andYerucham, Israel

• Projects in Argentina and Uruguay• Women’s Amutot Initiative• World ORT• Youth Futures in Yerucham, Israel

donor news winter 2011-2012

Documents