A bagel, a cup of coffee and the opportunity to build community through song and fund-raising. These are just some of the elements of a special day the Federation is planning. We are pleased to announce that on Sunday, March 29, we will be hosting Rebekka Goldsmith of The Rising Song Institute. The mission of The Rising Song Institute is to enrich Jewish spiritual life through song. This interactive event is for all ages. Ms. Goldsmith is a song-leader and ritualist. She is preparing a program for our community filled with song, prayer and spirit. If you are looking for an opportunity to feel uplifted and to celebrate Judaism in a special way, this is the occasion for you.

The Federation has decided to use this musical brunch as a kickoff to a matching gift campaign we are calling The Chesed Challenge. An anonymous donor has pledged to double any new gift, up to $10,000 total, given to the Federation from March 29 through April 30. Chesed translates to loving-kindness. In Jewish tradition, acts of chesed are those that truly connect and uplift one another. Sharing God’s love through acts of kindness is one of the most meaningful things one can do. 

It is my belief that both music and tzedakah provide a first-hand opportunity to experience chesed. We would love for you to join us for this joyous experience. We also hope that you will contribute to The Chesed Challenge. Every dollar donated will be doubled and that feels good too! Simply put, the Federation uses its funds to build and sustain our Jewish community. Your dollars make a difference and the matching gift challenge is an exceptional opportunity to lend your support.

By the way, if you have not heard of The Rising Song Institute, you can check it out on the web at www.risingsong.org.