Volunteers sought for federation Call Day
The Jewish Federation of Monmouth County is seeking volunteers for the fall session of Community Call Day, a telephone fund-raiser on Sunday, Oct. 20.
Volunteers will be asked to staff phones to call members of the community and ask them to donate to federation’s community campaign, which supports agencies and programs whose aim is to help Jews in need and strengthen Jewish life and community.
This will be the third time federation is using the Community Call Day model, which replaces its annual “Super Sunday.” The more frequent pacing is intended to help raise more funds and garner more community participation.
At the call day held last April 21, approximately 60 volunteers, community members, and representatives from more than a dozen synagogues and partner agencies accounted for pledges of more than $150,000. On Oct. 20, the organization is hoping to surpass the number of participating volunteers, synagogues, and partner agencies. “This is a community endeavor, and it is about building relationships. We must all come together to reach this year’s 12-month goal of $1.9 million,” said federation board chair Joe Hollander.
“The money we raise supports four priority areas: People in Need in Monmouth County, Israel and Overseas, Jewish Education and Continuity, and Community Programming for people of all ages,” said Call Day cochairs Cheryl Markbreiter and Albert Bloomfield in a statement. “In partnership with synagogues and our partner agencies, we touch the lives of tens of thousands in need in Monmouth County, Israel, and throughout the world.”
This year’s activity calls for three three-hour call sessions — 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 1-4 p.m., and 4-7 p.m. All calling will be centered at federation headquarters, 960 Holmdel Rd. in Holmdel.
“I understand that not everybody feels comfortable calling someone and asking for a donation,” said board member Louisa Liechtung. “I have had some difficulty myself in this area. But I am passionate about the good work being done by federation. I want the people I speak with to know that every contribution is important, whether it’s $18 or $18,000.”
Added Markbreiter: “It is very rewarding to give as well as to get. A real bonus is when you call someone, and he or she expresses interest in becoming more involved with federation’s mission. A five-minute phone call can lead to a long-term relationship.”
Those seeking to volunteer should contact Elena Herskowitz, federation’s director of development, at 732-866-4300 or elenah@jewishmonmouth.org.
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