I’m writing to you this week after suffering an incomprehensible loss. My beloved twin brother Jeffrey passed away two weeks ago from COVID-19. I am sharing this with you because this virus that has so profoundly impacted our world and our Jewish community has become deeply personal to me. I felt the incredible power of our Jewish community as it consoled me and enveloped me during my time of great need.
COVID-19 is not just attacking our bodies. It is making our most vulnerable — especially our frail elderly and those struggling financially — more vulnerable. It is threatening our Jewish community and our treasured Jewish infrastructure — summer camps, early childhood centers, day schools, and synagogues.
Our Federation is committed to protecting our most vulnerable and to strengthening our community. Now more than ever.
I have been honored to do this work with all my heart and soul for a decade, but today I know I need to do more. We all need to do more.
Today, I made my Federation gift. The Federation’s Annual Campaign is the backbone of our community. I feel that my gift is my responsibility. Today, I feel this responsibility more than ever.
I hope you will join me. We will get through this, and we will be stronger.
Thank you, and wishing you continued good health,
Jay Sanderson
President & CEO
