The Jewish Federation of Detroit is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of its 2024 Annual Campaign, raising an all-time high financial achievement from over 10,000 donors. The Campaign ended on May 31, capping what has been a complex and difficult year in the wake of the October 7 atrocity and Israel’s ensuing war with Hamas. Despite the challenges, the 2024 Annual Campaign raised a record $36.7 million to support Federation’s mission, funding its local and international partner agencies and powering a variety of essential programs and services that address critical needs in the community as well as building and sustaining Jewish life for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the extraordinary generosity shown by our community,” says Rob Orley, 2024 Annual Campaign Co-Chair. “The success of this Campaign is a testament to our historic dedication to taking care of each other and building a brighter Jewish future together.”
The results have a direct impact on the health and welfare of our Detroit Jewish community. As Deb Rosenthal, 2024 Annual Campaign Co-Chair, notes, “A strong Campaign that keeps pace with inflation and rising costs remains the most important way to ensure that our network of human service, education and engagement organizations continues to serve Jewish Detroit today, tomorrow and beyond.”
The Annual Campaign embodies Federation’s unique ability to raise and mobilize resources, directing them with the greatest efficacy and impact. The Campaign will support a range of areas including:
Fueling the Jewish Journey
Federation’s Annual Campaign supports Jewish life through a wide variety of programs, missions and events that encourage community members to live Jewishly in ways that resonate deeply within them. This reflects both traditional and innovative approaches at organizations that include day schools and summer camps, BBYO and campus Hillels, family and education programs at the J and Federation’s engagement programs.
Taking Care of Older Adults
As individuals live longer, needs continue to grow, especially since many older adults do not have the financial means to sustain a comfortable and healthy life in their later years. Many are currently struggling to make ends meet. Federation is working with its partner agencies to ease the increasing strain on the community’s social safety net and to pursue innovative strategies to expand senior services.
Alleviating Poverty
Even with an improving economy, many Jewish Detroiters continue to face economic hardships, such as food insecurity, mounting bills, prohibitive childcare expenses, dwindling savings and the resulting toll of stress and anxiety. Support for Federation’s Annual Campaign directly impacts these pressures. Working with its human services partners, Federation is actively helping community members find their footing and progress towards stability and independence.
Community Resilience & Preparedness
The physical safety and security of the community is an essential part of Federation’s mission. This has never been more important in the wake of a growing number of antisemitic hate crimes, including acts of vandalism, threats and harassment at Jewish businesses, synagogues, schools and college campuses. The Annual Campaign provides for a robust security infrastructure. Central to this is Jewish Community Security Inc. (JCSI), a local organization tasked with protecting the Jewish community.
Support for Israel & Jews Around the World
Our community’s enduring connection with Israel remains central to our identity, and our support has never been more important than after the October 7th terrorist attack in Israel. Beyond this, Federation’s support extends to the many vulnerable individuals in our global Jewish community, including tens of thousands in Ukraine, Russia and other former Soviet countries. Federation also works to strengthen ties between Israelis and Jews in diaspora communities through efforts such as Detroit’s Partnership2Gether program with the Central Galilee.
The Israel Emergency Campaign
The success of the 2024 Annual Campaign comes during a year of historic challenges for the Jewish people following October 7, and especially for the citizens of Israel. In addition to our Annual Campaign, Federation also launched an Israel Emergency Campaign to provide critical humanitarian aid to Israel, including direct support to victims of terror.
“We’ve received thousands of donations to support that important effort, beyond those for the Annual Campaign, notes Steve Ingber, Federation CEO. “The outpouring of generosity is truly extraordinary, and a reflection of Jewish Detroit’s historic bond with the state of Israel.”
A Heartfelt Thank You
The success of the 2024 Annual Campaign sets a strong foundation for the future. The Jewish Federation of Detroit remains committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive and resilient community. The record-breaking funds will not only support ongoing programs but also enable new initiatives that address emerging needs and opportunities.
“The Jewish Federation of Detroit extends its deepest appreciation to every donor and volunteer who contributed to the success of the 2024 Annual Campaign,” says Federation President, Gary Torgow. “This record-breaking campaign demonstrates the power of community and the difference we can make when we come together with a shared purpose. As we celebrate this achievement, we look forward to the continued growth and prosperity of the Detroit Jewish community, and to a time of peace in Israel, and throughout the world.”