Jfed connects q1 2017 web file

2017 Winter Edition

JFED CONNECTS WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF ST. LOUIS JFedSTL.org JFedSTL.org

FROM OUR LEADERSHIP Harvey N. Wallace..............1

Andrew Rehfeld..................1 COMMUNITY HEROES

Bonnie Solomon...................2 Chabad on Campus................2 OPPORTUNITIES The Internship Experience.....3

Passport to Israel...................3 GRANTS Women’s Auxiliary Grant.......3 Inclusion Mini-grants.........3

Staenberg Anything Grants...............................4

EVENTS Women’s Philanthropy Presents CommUNITY: Making a World of Difference.............4 The Annual Morris and Ann Lazaroff Lecture.....................5

Winter Wonderland Dance.....5 Shabbat Shalom St. Louis.......5

JFED CONNECTS WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF ST. LOUIS

FROM OUR CHAIR, Harvey N. Wallace

As the board chair of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, I am privileged to write this column. Over the last year, I have shared updates on events occurring in our community, including the completion of the first building at Covenant Place, the JCC Maccabi Games that brought together 1,300 Jewish teenage athletes from across the globe, and the Jewish Federation’s Annual Meeting and Campaign Kickoff at Busch Stadium.

We should be proud of what our Jewish community accomplished in 2016, and I believe we are positioned to build upon our successes as we look ahead to 2017. On behalf of our Jewish Federation of St. Louis leadership, I would like to thank everyone who supported the efforts of ALL our Jewish agencies by giving your time and your “gelt” (Yiddish for “money”).

As we begin the New Year, it is absolutely important that we remain a strong and cohesive Jewish community. The number of anti-Semitic incidents in our country are escalating, and recently 17 JCCs received bomb threats including our own. This past year, we experienced a rash of alt-right, neo-Nazi and white nationalist messaging directed at Jews and Jewish journalists. In a study conducted by the Anti-Defamation League that looked at social media harassment, 2.6 million anti-Semitic messages were identified.

Richard Sandler, chair of the Jewish Federations of North America Board of Trustees, recently shared his concerns. In part, Richard stated: “So what do we do to combat hate? …. We work with our communities, organizations and congregations, coming together and using all of our voices to fight hate. And most of all, we educate. We educate through coalitions with members of other religious and racial groups, through teaching about the Holocaust and other genocides and through explaining how words unchecked can lead to violence. …. We educate by teaching diversity, tolerance and empathy. We watch our own words. We choose them even more carefully. And we use them to lead, to defend, to challenge and to educate.”

We look forward to continuing our work to preserve and enhance Jewish life in St. Louis, Israel and around the world, and we hope you will join us on this wonderful journey.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2017.

FROM OUR CEO, Andrew Rehfeld (an excerpt from the St. Louis Jewish Light 1-11-17) With the passing of UN Resolution 2334 and the start of a new administration in DC, we have seen a growing division among American Jews concerning Israel. This division is increasing along partisan lines and proceeding with greater intensity.

From my experience as the CEO of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, I know that our community shares a broad commitment to a secure, democratic and Jewish State of Israel. This commitment is perhaps best captured in Israel’s own Declaration of Independence: we support Israel for the protection, flourishing and sovereignty of the Jewish people in a manner that ensures “complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants.”

I believe that our disagreements should be understood as disagreements about how best to achieve these shared aims.

As members of this community we have a responsibility to recognize the growing threats we face and to treat each other with decency and respect.

We must not alienate one another at exactly the moment that we need to recognize our shared fate as Jews and our shared responsibility to others.

In the spirit of the secular New Year, I suggest seven resolutions we might

follow to help keep these common goals in mind. (To read the full article visit JFedSTL.org/Resolutions) 1) Address the substance of the discussion, not the people involved.

2) Hold each other accountable for good behavior.

3) Avoid informational echo-chambers that reinforce your own point of view.

4) Commit to learning about Israel.

5) Support the People of Israel.

6) Engage!

7) Travel!

The St. Louis Jewish Community is remarkably diverse and vibrant. Amidst that diversity, the Federation is committed to fostering a sense of collective responsibility to one another in order to serve the highest ideals of our tradition. Israel is a critically important part of our work. We must not let our disagreements about how best to support its flourishing undermine our shared goals. I hope you will join me this year in resolving to do your part to help us build a stronger community.

COMMUNITY HEROES BONNIE SOLOMON

If you don’t know Bonnie Solomon, you are in for a real treat. What began as a career in 1972 led Bonnie on a professional and personal path of helping older adults and really everyone she meets.

Bonnie was the first staff and Executive Director of Covenant House (now Covenant Place), shepherding the many volunteers who interviewed the 1,000 applicants for the first 200 apartments. From there, Bonnie began an almost 30 year career with the Delmar Gardens Family. Along the way, she maintained volunteer involvement at Covenant Place as Past President, Life members of the Board of Directors and continues to serve on the Executive Board and many committees.

Bonnie also became involved in the Board of the National Council of Jewish Women, now serving a second term as V.P., Leadership. At her congregation, Shaare Emeth, Bonnie was elected to the Board of Directors, chaired the Membership Committee, the Social Justice Committee and currently is serving as a V.P. with a portfolio of Tzedek and Social Justice.

Of course, it didn’t take long for the Jewish Federation of St. Louis to want Bonnie, too. She joined the Women’s Philanthropy Board and became V.P. of Community Service, planning the signature Shower the Community with Love event among several other landmark programs benefitting the Jewish Community Chaplaincy outreach and the Jewish Food Pantry.

Outside of the Jewish community, Bonnie does not stop. She is currently

serving as Co-Chair of the Chesterfield Older Adult Task Force and was a judge for the city of Chesterfield’s Citizen of the year.

Along the way, Bonnie is often asked, “How do you do it? How do you manage to work full time, shop, provide leadership to local and national organizations, gift wrap for charity, shop, read novels and magazines, shop, write articles, make presentations to community groups, shop, appear on radio and television programs, travel, shop, (and now play mah jongg, belong to a Book Club) and share a loving family life?” Bonnie really never had one answer. Often she would say, “Because I care about people. Every time I give of my time and talent, I know what I do touches the lives of others and enriches me in very meaningful ways.”

What’s our answer to that question? Bonnie Solomon is a HERO in our community! And on top of it all, Bonnie is currently co-chairing our CommUNITY event, showcasing and celebrating the amazing Jewish women’s volunteer organizations in St. Louis on February 23, 2017.

Bonnie shares, “It reminds me of the Dance of the Dolphins–picture the scene – you are on a ship sailing on a beautiful ocean. You are standing on the deck and just where the beautiful blue horizon meets the blue of the water, you see the majestic dolphins… jumping up from the sea into the air, returning to the ocean and repeating their dance for all to see. We are reminded that the dolphin can only survive by alternating spending time in the water and then breathing air. I believe I and all volunteers must be part dolphin because our dance is one of balance… swimming in the sea of family, friends, and career and then breathing in the refreshing air of touching the lives of others.”

CHABAD ON CAMPUS: BUILDING THE JEWISH FUTURE “What stands out about Chabad?” asks SLU senior David Weinstein. “ We can come together as Jews. It doesn’t matter how ‘Jewish’ you are.”

Each week, a diverse group of over 100 college students gather together to celebrate Shabbat with home-style cooking, fresh Challah and chicken soup. The students—musicians and fratboys, premeds and kippah wearers, and an occasional international student interested in learning what Jews do—make small talk. The result is a vibrant sense of community that transcends denominational lines.

This is backed up by a new study by Brandeis University Professor Mark Rosen in conjunction with Steven M. Cohen, Arielle Levites and Ezra Kopelowitz. The study looked at alumni from 22 universities with active Chabad centers, including Washington University in St. Louis.

According to Rosen, who also visited St. Louis as part of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis’ SH’MA: Listen! Speaker Series in November, “All Jewish students, regardless of background and upbringing, attend the same events and are welcomed regardless of their beliefs or practices.”

The organization does much more than host Shabbat events, of course.

Program offerings run the gamut from social action to Jewish learning to Israel advocacy. The Chabad team of six professionals work on a daily basis to support students in areas that range from mental health struggles to supporting those who defend Israel from those who seek to boycott the Jewish state.

Rabbi Hershey Novack, one of the co-directors of the Chabad center, also serves as the senior campus rabbi. In the spring of 2016, he was named by The Forward as one of America’s Most Inspiring Rabbis. He also serves on the board of the Jewish Family & Children’s Service and as trustee of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. “I really think we’re doing something special,” says Novack. “Making a real difference on campus, and building the future of the American Jewish community.

Through a strategic grant, the Jewish Federation of St. Louis funds JGrads – the Jewish Graduate Association of St. Louis. JGrads strives to create community for graduate students and young adults through social programming, networking, and Jewish learning. A primary focus of JGrads is to attract young people to St. Louis for their post-college home.

An early leader in facilitating college-based Birthright Israel trips, the walls of the Chabad house are adorned with photos of over two dozen groups.

This summer the organization plans for its 1,000th student to participate in this formative 10-day trip, which is sponsored in part by the Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

Eighteen months ago, the organization started a Chabad program for college students at UMSL. Says Novack, “Local students deserve our full attention; we need to figure out how to make it work.”

The impact lasts long after graduation. According to the study, “participation at Chabad during college fosters greater involvement with Jewish life after college.”

“Anyone interested in understanding Jewish innovation should take a look at Chabad,” said Rosen.

For a copy of the Hertog Study please email hello@chabadwashu.org.

OPPORTUNITIES INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE FOR FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS

Jewish Federation of St. Louis is excited to open applications for the 2017 class of The Internship Experience for Future Community Leaders.

This nine-week, paid summer opportunity provides employment at a local business or non-profit organization, a community mentor and opportunities for students to engage with the local Jewish community as part of a special cohort.

To be considered for The Internship Experience for Future Community Leaders, students must: • Attend college in St. Louis or live in St. Louis and attend college elsewhere; • Be entering their junior or senior year of college in fall 2017 • Be available Monday through Friday, May 30–July 28, 2017 • Be Jewish or interested in the St. Louis Jewish community • Have access to transportation Additionally, the Jewish Federation of St. Louis is seeking local businesses or non-profit organizations to participate in the program.

Learn more and apply at JFedSTL.org/The-Internship-Experience.

Applications are being accepted now through February 15, 2017. For more information, contact Lynn Freedman at LFreedman@JFedSTL.org or 314-442-3778.

DO ISRAEL WITH PASSPORT TO ISRAEL

Passport to Israel is an investment opportunity to help your family accumulate designated funds from outside sources for your child to have an Israel experience as a teen or young adult. Start saving for your child’s future Israel experience today with help from the Jewish Federation of St. Louis and participating congregations. View the Passport to Israel flyer and learn about the new incentives that were implemented in 2016 at JFedSTL.org/Israel-Center.

GRANTS WOMEN’S AUXILIARY GRANT FOR THE JEWISH AGED

Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Aged, the newest supporting foundation of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, is focused on providing financial support for programs and organizations that ensure the dignity and honor of Jewish elderly in St. Louis. Applications for their third funding cycle are being accepted February 1 through March 16, 2017. St. Louis area 501(c)3 organizations with a mission and priority of Jewish elderly in the community at-large are encouraged to apply. To download the application, visit JFedSTL.org/About-Us/Womens-Auxiliary-Foundation.

Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Aged is focused on providing financial support for programs and organizations that ensure the dignity and honor of the Jewish elderly in the community at large. Women’s Auxiliary Foundation has a rich history in the St. Louis Jewish community and has evolved to become a significant source of support for the Jewish aged. After much consideration, Jewish Federation of St. Louis and Women’s Auxiliary Foundation created a partnership to leverage the expertise, resources and leadership of both organizations to best meet the needs of the Jewish elderly community in St. Louis.

INCLUSION MINI-GRANTS RETURN Jewish Federation of St. Louis is offering another round of Inclusion Mini-Grants for 2017. The Inclusion Mini-Grants are aimed at helping Jewish agencies and organizations eliminate barriers to active participation of individuals with disabilities and their families in the Jewish community.

This grant opportunity will allow Jewish organizations, schools and agencies to create a culture of inclusion and shift towards an environment where all are welcome. Grants of up to $5,000 will be made for eligible programs and activities, including building accessibility, technology, support services, staff training; student support; transportation and inclusive programs.

Like last year, preference will be given to collaborative community programs.

An agency that has received a previous Mini-Grant may reapply, but only for a new program or project. Only one application per agency will be considered.

All applicants must be 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations. No individuals or for-profit businesses, please. Inclusion Mini-Grant applications are being accepted January 16 through February 28, 2017. Notifications of awards will be made in April or May. This is the third and likely final year of Inclusion Mini-Grants, after which the Jewish Federation of St. Louis will be evaluating the best way to address inclusion issues moving forward. To apply or learn more about the grants, please visit JFedSTL.org/Inclusion. For more information, please contact Susan Scribner at SScribner@JFedSTL.org.

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES CONTINUED...

A FUNDING OPPORTUNITY TO

Do Anything

Fund your Jewish organization’s operations, project or program with a Staenberg Family Foundation Anything Grant.

Eligible grant applications could be for anything, including: • Hiring a nonprofit consultant • Purchasing technology • Staff/Board professional development • Building beautification/improvement

Applications are open from January 1-February 16, 2017.

These one-time matching grants will range from $1,000 to $5,000, equal to 50 percent of the project budget. Organizations are responsible for raising the remaining 50 percent from other sources.

Apply and get more information at JFedSTL.org/AnythingGrants or contact Mindee at MFredman@JFedSTL.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY PRESENTS COMMUNITY: MAKING A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE

Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis invites women from throughout the Jewish community to unite and celebrate our various Jewish women’s volunteer organizations. Over 25 organizations will be participating. The inspiring and empowering evening will take place on Thursday, February 23 at Lambert Airport-Concourse B, beginning with a reception at 6:30 pm.

Sivan Ya'ari, Founder & CEO of Innovation: Africa, will share her story of how she started Innovation Africa and deliver an empowering message of how each of us can share an idea and change the world. While working with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) on diesel energy development, she identified an opportunity for a more sustainable energy solution, developing the groundwork for Innovation: Africa. Sivan has received countless awards for her work, including recognition by Globes, Israel's leading business magazine, in 2016 as one of the "40 Under 40 Most Promising Israelis," and by Forbes Israel as one of the "50 Most Influential Women in Israel." Born in Israel and raised in France, Sivan lives in Tel Aviv with her husband and three children. Through her story of how she started Innovation: Africa, Sivan gives an empowering message of how each of us can share an idea and change the world.

For more information and to register, visit WP.JFedSTL.org/CommUNITY, or contact Katie Sheldon at 314-442-3751 or WP@JFedSTL.org. Tickets are $36; valet parking included. Enjoy international food stations and drinks; dietary laws observed. Dedicated by the Fox Family, in loving memory of Greg Fox z”l, honoring the Jewish Women volunteers in St. Louis.

Join YPD and Next Dor in exploring St. Louis synagogues! This series, Shabbat Shalom STL, offers young adults an exciting opportunity to see, feel, hear and taste a variety of St. Louis synagogues. Experience meaningful services, share a delicious meal and engage in a stimulating group discussion led by the Rabbis. Remaining in the series are: − Temple Israel on February 24 at 6:30 pm − B’nai Amoona on March 10 at 6:15 pm Kashrut standards are determined by each partnering synagogue.

A vegetarian option will always be available. Shaare Emeth, Bais Abe and Kol Rinah participated in the beginning of the series.

Please sign up for the following meals that you would like to attend at YPDSTL.org/Shabbat-Shalom-STL, or contact Becca Near at BNear@JFedSTL.org or 314-442-3879.

Please join YPD & Covenant Place for this year’s

SENIOR PROM

February 12, 2017 | 700-8:30 pm Covenant Place II (Bohm Social Hall) 8 Millstone Campus Drive Get ready for a fun evening with sweets, raffle prizes, DJ, photo booth and more!

Ages 21-39 are welcome. Bring your friends and have a great time at this year’s senior prom!

For more information and to RSVP, contact Becca Near at BNear@JFedSTL.org or 314-442-3879.

Staff Becca Near, Program Associate, Direct Services Sonia Dobinsky, Vice President, Direct Services

Jewish Federation of St. Louisr Harvey N. Wallace, Board Chair Andrew Rehfeld, President & CEO

Tuesday, February 21, 2017 | 7:00 pm Jewish Federation of St. Louis | 12 Millstone Campus Dr., St. Louis, MO 63146 Tuberculosis was a rampant disease that knew no boundaries or class distinctions from the late 19th century into the early 20th century. Communities tried a variety of ways to deal with the problem, such as enacting ordinances against spitting on sidewalks and creating sanatoria for those suffering from consumption. While most efforts focused on dealing with adults, there was a growing movement around the turn of the century to work with children who either suffered from tuberculosis or were at risk. As part of this movement to quell the alarming numbers of those contracting and suffering from tuberculosis, the St. Louis Jewish community created a summer camp for at-risk children in 1926. Commonly called Camp Fee Fee, this preventorium was meant to not only expose the children to fresh air, exercise and good food, but also to teach them subtly about health.

Please RSVP by phone to the Saul Brodsky Jewish Community Library at 314-442-3720, or RSVP by email to Cyndee Levy at CLevy@JFedSTL.org.

This program is free and open to the public. Dessert reception to follow; dietary laws observed.

Learn more about the Jewish Federation of St. Louis at JFedSTL.org.