Good Morning. I am often reminded of the impact Federation makes in our local and global communities every day and this week was certainly no exception...
On Monday, Federation's Audit Committee, Co-Chaired by Marty Mand and Barbara Schoenberg, met with three area firms who were selected finalists of our External Audit & Tax Services RFP. A recommendation will be going to Federation's Board of Directors for approval in the coming week. Federation's Campaign Leadership also met under the guidance of 2014 Campaign Co-Chairs David Margules and Richard Leff. Our Young Leadership Division Steering Committee met later that evening with exciting plans already underway for a wonderful event and program schedule. Thanks to YLD Co-Chairs Karen Legum and Gina Schoenberg as well as Federation YLD Director, Julie James.

On Tuesday evening, Toni and Stuart Young hosted a small group of community leaders who discussed the path to peace in the Middle East. Sitting at the table with both American Jews and Palestinians further confirmed our shared belief that only through peace will the Israelis and Palestinians secure their future and live in prosperity. We all look forward to continuing our dialogue and hope to see positive progress in the next round of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians on August 14th in Jerusalem.

Israel Scout Caravan at the Siegel JCC    (Photo Credit: Donna Harlev)

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity of welcoming our new community shaliach, Adir Ben Tovim, to Delaware. Adir, in partnership with Federation and UD Hillel, will be building a living bridge with our community and working directly with our beneficiary agencies and synagogues. The Israel Scout Caravan was also in Wilmington for two memorable performances - an afternoon show for JCC campers and a community-wide performance in the evening. Special thanks to the Siegel JCC for co-sponsoring this festive event that brought a taste of Israel to Delaware.

On Thursday, the Facilities Management Board met to review campus needs and projects. Thanks to the leadership of FMB Co-Chairs, Ken Kamm and Arnie Caine, we are continually improving campus operations and efficiencies. I also met with the Co-Chairs of our Jewish Education Committee, Allison Land and Connie Sugarman, as Federation will once again fund community-wide teen educational and experiential programs. Last year Federation funded a teen trip to the U.S. Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC and the JLI Teen Series.

Later this morning I will be meeting with our beneficiary agency executives for our monthly roundtable discussion. This format provides a wonderful forum for open dialogue and improved inter-agency communication.

With the strength of a people and the power of community, we are Improving Our World... TOGETHER.