I know that all the news and radio shows are taking the opportunity this week to reflect on the year which has passed.  They list the top 100 songs of the year or the top news stories.  As I reflect back upon 2011, I see our Federation achieving the following measurable outcomes:  the highest campaign total in our history, the largest Foundation in our history (by asset size), the largest Mitzvah Day in our history, the launch of the Centennial Celebration, the start of recruitment for a mega mission in June 2012 (with over 180 people now registered), the largest amount secured in Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) dollars for our Jewish Day schools and preschools, more young adult donors to our campaign than the year prior and our Centennial Fund for a Jewish Future with a remarkable $18 Million committed.  Less measurable, but equally as important, has been the continued strengthening of relationships with our ten beneficiary agencies to work collaboratively to move our community forward, the evolution of our planning process to help plan for our future and the amazing staff and volunteers who work on behalf of the Federation.  

The Federation’s success is merely a reflection of the commitment by each of you, of your time and your financial resources.  Thank you for making 2011 a great achievement.  That being said, we still have plenty in the Jewish world who don’t have enough to eat, who don’t have a strong Jewish identity and who don’t have the care and support they need both physically and mentally.  All of us at the Federation look forward to working with you in 2012 to continue to make life better for you, your friends and neighbors, and people you will never know.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy New Year.