Paying it Forward

Each and every day, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia works to ensure that everyone who needs help is cared for and Jewish life is accessible for all who want it. What better way to understand the impact of this work than from those who have gained so much from the community, supported services and other integral programs. Learn more about the powerful moments that inspired community members to want to give back, paying it forward for others to have similar life-changing experiences.

“I give to the Jewish Federation because they support countless life-changing services, such as HIAS PA, which helps family reunification and immigration to our Philadelphia community. When my father was 5 years old, HIAS helped him, his parents — both Holocaust survivors — and two younger brothers come to the U.S. I am grateful to HIAS for helping my dad's family immigrate to Wisconsin, where my grandfather served as a rabbi and where my father received a Jewish education, eventually meeting my mother and planting new roots in the Greater Philadelphia community. Had it not been for HIAS, I would not even be here today.”

— Sarah Vogel, Women’s Philanthropy Board Member

“I was fortunate enough to have the Jewish Federation support me and my family, and provide financial aid, so I could attend Jewish day school when I was younger. My dad, who battled mental illness for years, suddenly passed midway through high school. Without hesitation, my high school, Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy (formerly Akiba), stepped in to cover my tuition for the remainder of high school … I give to the Jewish Federation because I believe in what they do and the organizations they support. I can say firsthand that they have personally made an impact on my life.”

— Colby Pellegrini, Committee for Jewish Life and Learning Member

“I give to the Jewish Federation because the work we do is essential for the health and vibrancy of the Jewish community. We are all searching for that sense of belonging, and it is through my involvement with a myriad of Jewish organizations that I have found this sense of home. It has allowed me to rekindle memories of my own family, while at the same time given me a unique opportunity to give back to sustain and assure the future of our community.”

— Jon Broder, Leadership and Community Development Cabinet Chair

“I give to the Jewish Federation because I trust that my gift will support great programs that strengthen the Jewish community and help those in need. I chose to join NextGen’s Ben Gurion Society this year, because I wanted to show that no matter your age, you’re still able to give back and make a difference. I am very active in our Jewish community, and I love how inviting it is to all – it is a community that I’m proud to support through my donation.”

— Alicia Rosenbaum, NextGen and new Ben Gurion Society member

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You can help change even more lives by making a gift to the Jewish Federation’s Jewish Community Fund. Visit jewishphilly.org/donate or call 215.832.3484 to make your gift before year’s end.