As the summer begins, Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona campaign leaders are working to close the 2011 Campaign by contacting past donors who have not yet made a pledge for this year.
“The budgeting process for next season begins this summer,” explains Campaign Chair Kathryn Unger. “And the 2011 Campaign needs an additional $200,000 in order to provide community programming and services equivalent to this year.” The Campaign total is currently at $3,200,000.
“It’s the Campaign,” Unger adds, “that fuels the engine that makes our community strong.”
While 2,000 donors have made Campaign pledges, 500 donors who supported the Campaign last year have not yet pledged. “Our efforts must continue to ensure that our community is the best it can be,” says Unger.
The Local Emergency Assistance Fund (LEAF), established last fall to meet the needs of Tucson’s Jews in crisis, will help hundreds thanks to 800 community donors who supported the project by designating a portion of their Campaign increases to LEAF.
Administered by Jewish Family & Children’s Services, LEAF will help pay utility bills and provide food and shelter to Jews in need in every zip code in Southern Arizona.
“We expect to continue the LEAF effort,” said Larry Gellman, who will chair next year’s campaign, “because the needs of Jews in crisis only continue to grow.” Requests for financial assistance continue to escalate, according to JFCS CEO Shira Ledman.
To make a 2011 Campaign pledge, contact the Federation at 577-9393 or campaign@jfsa.org. “Your payment will not be due until Dec. 31, 2011 and will be greatly appreciated,” says Unger.
