Jewish Federation of Northeastern Pennsylvania

ABOUT THE CAMPAIGN
The annual Federation Campaign is the primary instrument for support of the Jewish Federation's system of organizations and institutions. It contributes to the support of programs and services and the maintenance of agencies in the local community, regionally , nationally, in Israel and other Jewish communities overseas. Rooted in the historic Jewish concepts of tzedakah and community, the purpose of the Campaign is not only to provide funds for support of essential community functions, but to provide an organizational framework within which members of the Jewish community can contribute their time, energy, knowledge and personal resources for the common good. It is a medium for recruitment and training of Jewish communal leadership; and promotion of education in Jewish tradition and responsibility; as well as a testing ground for new ideas and methods for maintaining Jewish enterprises.

The successful Campaign is more than the achievement of a specified dollar amount. It is the building, over a period of time, of community understanding of needs and purpose, maximum involvement of people and maximum giving in relation to the resources available in the community. The Campaign is a vehicle for community-building; a means to enhance the community's image, identify and address its needs, establish collective responsibility and provide for its future through financial support. The Campaign is a means of building bridges and a partnership with Jews in Israel and the world over.

WOMEN'S DIVISION
In 1947 the Women's Division was officially started, although for many years previous, numerous charitable projects were undertaken by the women of our community for overseas Jewry. Now observing its 55th anniversary, the Women's Division has become an integral part of the community's total UJA/Federation United Jewish Campaign raising approximately 30% of the overall campaign. The campaign encompasses a number of special functions, including a Cabinet meeting, a Women's Awareness Day, solicitor's training workshop, special events for Major Gifts, senior adults luncheon, Super Sunday and, periodic participation in national events, including the Lion of Judah and UJA missions.

A major portion of the funds raised result from the growing membership in the Silver Pomegranate Club consisting of women who pledge $1,800 or more annually. Each year a ruby is added to this wonderful symbol of the 613 commandments reflected in the 613 seeds in a pomegranate. Members of the Lion of Judah Club, who contribute $5,000 or more annually receive a handsome pin with a diamond added each year they maintain this high level of commitment.

Why A Women's Divsion
The question is often raised why women should give separately from their husbands; why a family gift does not suffice. The reality is that millions of dollars are raised each year because there is a separate division, as it gives pride and recognition to women who, increasingly, determine their own lifestyle and make their own independent decisions.

Tracing back the role of today's woman women to the roles of our Jewish mothers, there has always been an "obligation to give," not only as a woman but as an individual in her own right to help fellow Jews. It was the wife who filled the charity boxes for Israel and for the needy. Today's Women's Division is a modern expression of that tradition.

Women today have status. They vote, they are professionals, they are leaders in government. In every field of undertaking, they have proven their abilities and capacity for assuming major responsibilities. They are on an equal playing field with men, often exceeding their achievements and commitment.

Women, more than anyone else, have an innate sensitivity to the needs of other women, children, the homeless and have developed such programs to meet these needs as day care, family education, community cultural and art programs. Women in the 1990's are informed, committed and active members of, not only the Jewish community, but general community.

The Women's Division also affords women the opportunity to function in a religious way by performing a mitzvah. Giving charity is a commandment and an individual responsibility. Just as women make many independent decisions in their lives, why shouldn't they also make an individual decision for Jewish life and Jewish survival? Many women have independent means or resources, even if not working.

Originally, the Women's Division was seen as an opportunity for "plus giving" Today, it is "life giving," according to a previous Women's Division chairman in Atlanta, Georgia, Roseland Zinn. When a woman gives to a campaign, she is doing four things: 1) Standing up and being counted. 2) Demonstrating commitment ta their local Jewish community and worldwide Jewry. 3) Making a statement for justice by doing what's right. 4) Serving as an inspiration to other women and, most important, their children and often husbands.

By independent giving, women have demonstrated and achieved power, pride and teaching. Their role in providing Tzedakah is in its finest and truest form.

AUTHORITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
The Federation is a voluntary association that derives its authority from the widespread affiliation of individuals and organizations. It is accountable to the community for the uses made of funds raised, and to the donors from which they were raised. It acts in accord with Jewish values, ethics and democratic principles.