This is the time of year when we are in the heart of our annual campaign. Thus far we have raised over $400,000 - a 10% increase over last year.

At our campaign opening event, we learned about the amazing work performed by the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, one of our international Jewish beneficiary agencies.

I want to highlight just a glimpse of our "case for giving" by sharing some of what our beneficiary agencies can do with increased support. Please remember that it is your gifts to the Federation annual campaign that play such an important role, and allow the local and overseas agencies to continue their great work.

Jeff Klein, the new executive director of the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida, brings a lifetime of experience to Jacksonville. To be successful in securing permanent endowment funds, Foundation will require increased funding from the community. Increasing your annual campaign donation can help to make this happen.

Jewish Family & Community Services is working with 52 Holocaust survivors. Sadly, 10 of these survivors need financial assistance for them to live out their remaining years with dignity. We want to make this happen.

The Jewish Community Alliance continues to present our community with programs designed to educate the public about Israel. With so much negative media coverage on Israel, positive connections and better understanding of Israel is vital.

River Garden just received its 7th Governor's Gold Seal Award – unprecedented recognition of our outstanding Jewish home. They need increased support from Federation to maintain the same level of excellence.

Our two Jewish day schools, Martin. J. Gottlieb Day School and Torah Academy of Jacksonville, need additional funds for scholarships and financial assistance. Having a Schechter school and an orthodox school in the community offers our children the opportunity to obtain a great full-time Jewish education.

Over the next few months, we will host several events for you to attend. You will have many chances to make your gifts to the Federation 2015 annual campaign. Don’t wait until Super Sunday – make your gift now.