New York – The philanthropic leadership of the New York Jewish community raised $43 million, an increase of $2 million over last year, at the 21st consecutive launch of UJA-Federation of New York’s Annual Campaign held last night at the home of Alan “Ace” C. and Kathryn Greenberg in Manhattan.
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The Honorable Governor David A. Paterson delivered the keynote address to the 110 people who attended the annual kick-off fund-raising reception. In his address, Governor Paterson recognized UJA-Federation of New York’s volunteers and philanthropists for stepping up to the plate to help those in need, especially during these turbulent economic times here in New York, the rest of the nation and abroad.
“Every year, nearly three million New York volunteers put in more than 366 million hours of service,” Governor Paterson said. “These volunteers – regular New Yorkers – stand watch everyday and guard their fellow human beings against hunger and homelessness, poverty and despair. The work of these everyday heroes is a bright reflection of the best we have to offer and many of them are affiliated with the UJA-Federation. UJA-Federation’s agency system plays a critical role in caring for the people of New York. Now, as more citizens find themselves vulnerable, we must work together to redouble our efforts.”
John M. Shapiro, UJA-Federation of New York president, echoed the Governor’s remarks, noting that more individuals and families are expected to turn to UJA-Federation for help during the economic crisis.
“Now, more than ever, our community needs to come together and offer support not only to the people who already rely on us but to populations who have been affected by the recent financial crisis,” Shapiro said. “Due to the recent turn of events, we will see greater unemployment, failed businesses and families who have lost their homes due to foreclosure. This will just add more challenges to an already overburdened infrastructure. We cannot predict when things will turn around but we can make things easier for the lives of those affected.”
UJA-Federation campaign leadership also announced the formation of its Challenge Fund, which was developed in direct response to this year’s economic instability. The Challenge Fund pledges to match the charitable donation of any new donor and, for existing donors who donate 10% or more over their last year’s pledge, it will match the increase at 50%.
John S. Ruskay, UJA-Federation of New York’s executive vice president and CEO, said that in times of crisis, donors have traditionally turned to UJA-Federation because they know that every dollar will be applied effectively to meet people’s needs and will be allocated where it will have the greatest impact. “I wish to thank those who gathered here tonight to show their support during these very trying times,” Ruskay said. “To exceed last year’s number and to raise additional funds through the Challenge Fund in these troubled economic times is a tribute to the philanthropic leaders of the Jewish community and their trust in our organization to determine how best to allocate those funds for the greatest impact. All of you serve as role models not only to our organization but to other charitable organizations throughout New York and across the country.”