UJA Raises $50,000 to Save Program for Seniors

More than 100 guests gathered on Thursday, June 16, 2011, to celebrate UJA-Federation of New York’s Scarsdale community, its contributions to the organization’s 2011 Annual Campaign, and the vital work of UJA-Federation.

UJA-Federation raises funds that sustain the activities of more than 100 health, human-service, educational, and community-building agencies. These community-based organizations provide services that combat poverty, help the elderly age with dignity, promote Jewish identity and renewal, strengthen children and families, and open doors to those with disabilities and special needs.

During the Scarsdale Couples Event, the successful completion of a special initiative by UJA-Federation’s Scarsdale Women’s Philanthropy also was announced. This effort raised funds for Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) Senior Program

The WJCS Senior Program, which offers 250 older adults a critical lifeline that connects them to others and to their community, was facing a major financial crisis. Scarsdale Women’s Philanthropy committed to raising $50,000 to close its budget shortfall. Once that goal was reached, an anonymous donor committed to contributing an additional $25,000.

“We’re a strong community, committed to making a difference where we can,” said Scarsdale Divisional Chair Caryl Orlando. “We

saw how critical this program is to the seniors who see it as a reason to get up in the morning, and we knew we could help ensure its vitality for another year. We dedicated ourselves to this effort, and we succeeded.”

Tizmoret, Queens College Hillel’s a cappella group, performed at the event. UJA-Federation funds 12 local Hillels through Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life, including the Hillel at Queens College.

Trisanne Berger, Pam Frankel-Stein, Robin Gottlieb, Stephanie Hurwitz, and Stephanie Tessler serve as Scarsdale area chairs.

About UJA-Federation of New York

UJA-Federation of New York, the world’s largest community-based philanthropy, raises funds that sustain the activities of more than 100 health, human-service, educational, and community-building agencies. Every day, these community-based organizations provide a multitude of services that combat poverty, help the elderly age with dignity, promote Jewish identity and renewal, strengthen children and families, and open doors to those with disabilities and special needs. With a reach that spans New York, Israel, and 60 countries around the globe, we touch the lives of 4.5 million people every year, fulfilling a mission to care for people in need, inspire a passion for Jewish life and learning, and strengthen Jewish communities. For more information, please visit www.ujafedny.org.

Pictured at Top: Susan Goldenberg, Nina Ross, and Linda Plattus

Photos supplied by UJA-Federation of New York