Helping Thousands Takes Millions
Over 660 people gathered at Jewish Care’s Gala Dinner, recently held at Melbourne’s Caulfield Racecourse, launching the 2012 Annual Appeal in support of those in need in the Victorian community.
Appeal patron David Smorgon
This year’s Annual Appeal theme, Giving is in Our Nature, has emphasised human individuality and that the ability to give is hardwired within each person.
“Our parents and grandparents came to Australia with little or no means to support themselves, and yet, they always found ways to share with others. From a very young age, we were nurtured by our families with certain values and traditions. Giving tzedakah is an integral part of all of us,” said Bruce Rosengarten, Jewish Care’s President.
This year, Jewish Care aims to raise $5.3 million to cover the ongoing provision of its vital community services, including housing assistance, financial services, counselling, Healthy Ageing programs, mental health services, cultural and spiritual services, information and referral and kosher food service. These programs receive little or no government funding, and rely primarily on public donations.
David Smorgon OAM, the Appeal’s longstanding supporter and Patron, called out to the community with a personal request to make a practical change to the lives of many and encouraged the attendees to continue the circle of giving: “We all play a role in our community. Now is your chance to show your connection and assist those in need. And it is always better to be a giver than a taker.”
Rosalie Silverstein receives the Outstanding Community Service Award from Bruce Rosengarten
Throughout the Gala Dinner, participants were moved by captivating presentations, including an inspirational film, It’s Wonderful, highlighting Jewish’s Care role in strengthening the wellbeing of the Victorian Jewish community and securing its sustainable future.
The audience warmly welcomed the keynote speaker, Simon Griffiths, a leading innovator in the social enterprise sector, who spoke about how consumer-driven philanthropy is making a true difference in the developing world.
The Outstanding Community Service Award was presented to Rosalie Silverstein, a dedicated Jewish Care volunteer for over 35 years.
“Giving is growing. It changes your life. I’ve learnt so much from it,” said Rosalie.
Rosalie is also well known for running the Posh Opp Shoppe on Glen Huntly Rd, which pays for over 170 Jewish children with disabilities to have carers at school.
“In our community, we have philanthropists donating from $5 to hundreds of thousands,” said Bill Appleby, Jewish Care’s CEO, “Philanthropy is not limited to the wealthy. It is defined by a conscious decision and full-hearted intent to impact positively on other people’s lives.”
The Gala Dinner night has set a successful start to the 2012 Annual Appeal campaign, aiming to assist Jewish people of all ages and abilities to build their capacity, establish long-term security, achieve their goals and live full and meaningful lives.
