Highlights of 2016
As we look forward to the coming year, the Milwaukee Jewish Federation thanks you for helping make 2016 a success.
Here are our top 7 highlights of the year…
#7 Traveled to Vilnius and Berlin
We led a mission to Berlin and Vilnius where we dedicated two mass graves with Father Patrick Desbois, explored the Rudnicki Forest with a 94-year-old partisan from the Resistance, and visited a recently-discovered WWII tunnel dug by Jews to escape the Nazis in the Polnar Forest. Read one participant’s perspective on the journey to Vilnius and Berlin.
#6 Created Civil Conversations on Israel
We conducted Let’s Talk Israel, a year-long series of programs aimed at thoughtful, civil conversations about Israel. Left vs. Right: The Battle for Israel’s Soul featured J.J. Goldberg, editor of The Forward, representing the liberal perspective and Jonathan Tobin, senior online editor of Commentary Magazine, representing the conservative viewpoint. Learn more.
#5 Economic Forum Drew Record Crowd
Silicon Valley futurist Vivek Wadwha drew a record crowd of business leaders at Economic Forum 2016, increasing the visibility of the Jewish community in Milwaukee. See how the Business Journal, 620-WTMJ, and OnMilwaukee.com covered the event.
#4 Walk for Israel Moved Downtown
Yom HaAtzmaut and the Walk for Israel moved downtown to the War Memorial, where hundreds of walkers participated including many from other faith and civic groups. See the photos.
#3 Author Lipstadt Discussed “Denial”
Author Deborah Lipstadt spoke to a sold-out crowd just weeks before the release of Denial, a film about her experience fighting deniers of the Holocaust. Read about Lipstadt in the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle and listen to the story on 620-WTMJ. You can also learn more about Holocaust education efforts through our Nathan and Esther Pelz Holocaust Education Resource Center.
#2 Expanded “Create a Jewish Legacy”
The Jewish Community Foundation, in partnership with local Jewish agencies and synagogues, secured 675 legacy gift commitments that represent $16.5 million in future gifts to support our community. Legacy leaders Betsy and Michael Green were honored this summer by the Foundation. Read Betsy and Michael’s stories about why leaving a legacy was essential for them.
#1 Annual Campaign Reached $6 Million
The 2016 Annual Campaign increased again this year surpassing $6 million. The campaign was launched with a kick-off event featuring acclaimed journalist David Gregory. See why donors are investing in the Federation.