Not quite what we’d envisioned
As the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s 2020 Community Campaign draws to a close, many of us will look back on it as “one for the record books.”
The 2020 Campaign—Our 2020 Vision, as we called it—did not turn out to be anything like what we’d envisioned.
But it will stand out as a great success for the dollars it raised and the individuals and agencies it supported through a crisis unlike any we’ve faced during most of our lifetimes.
While we were working, eating, sleeping, running, and just simply living our lives…an invisible microbe sidled up to us and made itself known in the most horrific way. And it continues to sicken us physically, emotionally, and financially in some cases.
Next year will be an uphill climb for us in many ways. Our hope is that the Federation will be able to continue to rely upon existing and new donors to aid and assist those who most need our help.
We hope that you are extremely proud of your Federation and affiliate agencies—proud of how they managed to pivot quickly to address needs in new ways and how they continue meeting those needs and preparing for whatever may come in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Please know that your Federation is proud of you and the way you stepped up to support the Emergency Relief Fund, run alongside the annual Campaign. Yes, we are proud…but not surprised.
The 2020 campaign now sits at just over $4.7 million. That is $4.7 million to help meet the needs of vulnerable Jews in Tidewater and in communities like ours around the world. There are just a few days left to make a gift to the 2020 Campaign. It closes officially on June 30. If you’re able to help, please visit us at www.jewishva.org to make your gift online. Every dollar helps. Every donation is meaningful and valued.
Proud, but not surprised. And it is incredibly reassuring to know that when we reach out to our community for the 2021 campaign, you will once more respond, “Hineni.” I am here to help.
For more information about the Annual Campaign or the Covid-19 Emergency Relief Fund, visit www.jewishva.org or call or email Amy Zelenka, Campaign director at 965-6139 or azelenka@ujft.org.
– Amy Zelenka