By Reporter staff

The Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton announced that Campaign 2023 is still in progress. “It’s never too late to make a pledge,” said Shelley Hubal, executive director of the Federation. “Some people prefer to give at a certain time of year or in conjunction with their required minimum distribution or RMD. We are grateful for gifts of any kind.” 

Hubal stressed the Federation’s purpose and programming as the reason people should donate. “Federation strives to make Binghamton a better place to live, learn and raise a family,” she said. “When you contribute, you are supporting the following programming: Jewish Film Fest, Tea and Talk, the communitywide Yom Hashoah program, College of Jewish Studies, PJ Library and much more. Additionally, in the coming year, we are planning a special celebration to commemorate Israel’s 75th anniversary and more L’Dor V’Dor Next Generation events for young Jewish adults.”

The allocation process for local organizations has already taken place and the Federation is looking to raise enough funds to cover the allocations. “In November of 2022, the Federation board approved a package of allocations that totals more than $323,000 to be distributed in 2023,” she said. “Our Jewish community relies on these funds to stay afloat. Currently we have raised $202,000. It’s simple: if we do not raise the funds we need, we will have to use our reserves and make cuts in the coming years. If you care about the Jewish Community Center, The Reporter, Jewish Family Service, Jewish learning, the future of our Jewish youth and so much more, then now is the time to contribute. Every dollar counts. Every dollar will have an impact.”

Hubal believes that the recent rise in antisemitism makes donations to the Federation even more important because new funds raised will be matched by a LiveSecure grant from Jewish Federations of North America. “In the past year, we’ve run three programs that taught about how to better protect ourselves and our organizations,” Hubal noted. “We’ve also organized a Security Committee to help with that effort. The matching grant from JFNA will enable our community to support future security needs. Your increased gift to the Campaign or separate gift to our LiveSecure fund will ensure a safer tomorrow for everyone.”

There are several ways to make a pledge or pay a pledge. “You can fill out the form on page 5,” said Hubal, “or visit our website at www.jfgb.org. You can give a donation or make a pledge that can be paid anytime during the year.”

To learn more about the programming the Federation organized or supported during 2022, click here.