From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With gratitude 11/6/20

By Shelley Hubal

I am grateful the annual Campaign gives me the opportunity to reconnect with Jewish community members, both locally and those that once called Binghamton their home. One highlight on Super Sunday was speaking with a former Binghamton community member who now lives out West. After making his pledge, he said to me, “You only have one hometown.” He has fond memories of growing up in Binghamton, still has family and friends here, and recognizes how his support will help our local organizations endure for years to come. This conversation lifted my spirits. 

Another memorable Campaign call included a lengthy conversation about the challenges of living in this time of COVID isolation. I spoke with the donor about the ease of connecting with others via technology and the loneliness that comes with reduced face-to-face interactions. I would guess these varied experiences are common to all in our current day. The role of Jewish Family Service during this difficult time was another topic discussed with a community member who finds it meaningful that their support is helping to put food on the tables of those in need. 

We want you to feel good about your gift to the Federation, whatever your reason is for giving. Federation has a different meaning for everyone. For some, it is the direct community outreach of Jewish Family Service; for others, it is supporting Jewish youth through the PJ Library and Hillel Academy. Perhaps you find meaning in the programming Federation does to unite our Jewish community. If you have not made your pledge yet, we hope you will go to www.jfgb.org and join your neighbors as we work together to strengthen our community. Thank you to everyone who has already made this commitment for the year to come. As always, I am sending my best wishes to all of you for good health and happiness.