On behalf of the Jewish Foundation, we wish you and your families a chag sameach and a Happy New Year. The High Holidays are an opportunity for us to reflect on the year that has passed and to look ahead to what we hope the new year may bring.  

Despite the challenges of the past several years, we have also seen how difficult times bring out the best in our community. We had a record-breaking number of guests attend our Book of Life Celebration in April. More than 40 new Giving Funds were established, teaching more young people than ever before about the power of philanthropy. And last year alone, fundholders distributed more than $78 million to various charitable causes, the highest in our history—including more than $43.5 million in support of UJA’s strategic Jewish community priorities—helping drive lasting change across some of the most pressing challenges facing our community.  

We are excited to build on this strong momentum and continue driving growth across the Foundation in the year ahead. With best-in-class operations and exceptional returns, we are confident that even more Jewish philanthropists will see the value in opening a new fund—or adding to their existing ones—to amplify their impact. This year, the Jewish Foundation will offer even more events, continue to enhance our operations, and provide you with expert data and insights—all helping streamline your intentional philanthropy journey. At this pivotal time in modern Jewish history, it’s important to think about ways you can support Jewish causes that build up our community. Your philanthropic advisor is always available to help you reach your charitable goals, whatever they may be. 

Finally, remember that when you give, you also receive. Giving charitably to causes that matter to you brings joy and fulfillment. As we enter this new year, we encourage you to reflect on how you can experience even more joy through your acts of tzedakah. 

We wish you all a shana tova u’metukah, 

Mike Diamond and Jack Frieberg