Powerful programming and enchanting entertainment proved to
be a winning combination Wednesday, March 19 at The Jewish Federation
Valley Alliance’s annual Major Gifts Dinner honoring the
Valley region’s most ardent supporters. More than 225 guests
who give a minimum annual household gift of $10,000 celebrated
their commitment to the Federation and to Israel, which this
year commemorates 60 years of independence.
|
The elegant gathering at Valley Beth Shalom synagogue in Encino
featured renowned Jewish entertainer Craig Taubman who led guests
on an extraordinary journey back to the creation of Israel using
music, song and dance. Performers, strategically located around
the room, narrated special tributes in between musical numbers
and multimedia presentations, including a kaleidoscope of photographs
representing donors’ cherished Israel memories projected
on a large screen throughout the evening’s festivities.
Additionally, famed gospel singer Joshua Nelson had everyone
on their feet, swaying to the music and clapping their hands
in joyous celebration.
Valley Alliance Campaign Chair Rochelle Cohen delivered a stirring
and emotional call to action, highlighting the depth and breadth
of the Federation’s reach here at home and worldwide. Her
powerful words moved loyal donors to even higher levels of commitment
to the Federation’s Annual Campaign. And Rabbi Ed Feinstein’s
presentation finished the evening off on just the right note,
describing defining moments that led to the creation of Israel.
“We couldn’t have created a more fantastic evening,” said
Derek Brown, Valley Alliance Major Gifts vice president and dinner
co-chair along with his wife, Lynette, and Karen and Mark Getelman. “Every
detail came together superbly from beginning to end. There was
such a warm feeling in the room. We were all ready to celebrate
our support for the Federation and the State of Israel. The music
and other performances only served to strengthen what was destined
to be a very special evening.”
For more information on the Valley Alliance, please contact John
Magoulas at (818) 464-3263 or at JMagoulas@JewishLA.org.
