REDEFINING PHILANTHROPY
“From the heart, it has come, to the heart, it shall go.” ―Beethoven
Every two years, the CHW Board of Directors spends a full day working on the organization’s short-term strategy and routinely goes through a SWOT exercise: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Weak economic conditions are always a threat we consider. However, who could ever think of a global pandemic with a full lockdown for over three months! During these unprecedented times, when businesses suffer and some close down, charitable organizations are particularly vulnerable. Not only is the stream of charitable giving depleted due to economic downturn, but additionally, the timing of the COVID-19 pandemic left many charitable organizations fighting for survival. Spring is a prime fundraising period for charities, and the lockdown and further physical distancing protocols have forced the cancellation of every single group-based fundraising event from coast-to-coast. At times like this, coming together is crucial, and teamwork and flexibility are paramount. As National Executive Director of this truly legendary 100-year old organization, I am in awe of our volunteers and supporters, who despite being consumed with concern for the health and wellbeing of our families and friends here at home, found the time and strength to ensure we were supporting essential services in our Jewish Homeland. Teams of CHW volunteers quickly turned to Zoom for meetings and virtual events. Annual Campaign canvassers worked tirelessly to solicit gifts in support of front line workers and services for Children, Healthcare, and Women. CHW’s national leadership held frequent meetings to ensure our organization remained solid and stable beyond this pandemic. As always, big needs are answered by big hearts! From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your tremendous dedication, generosity and incredible commitment. By supporting Israel’s most vulnerable, you truly change the world. Toda Rabah!
Alina Ianson CHW National Executive Director ORAH Magazine Summer 2020
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