March 2021


A MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDATION OF
THE GREATER MIAMI JEWISH FEDERATION

Within the past calendar year, The Foundation processed more than 2,500 individual transactions of gifts (contributions) and grants (distributions). We are proud to report that through The Foundation, we distributed over $40 million representing 2,100 different grants. This represents an 18% increase from the $34 million distributed in 2019.

As part of that increase, there was a 44% increase in grants made to the Greater Miami Jewish Federation and its local beneficiary agencies. We are also pleased to report that 85% of the grants from 2020 went to support Jewish organizations, a 6% increase from 2019. This is a clear indication of the continued generosity of our community as well as the reliance upon and importance of our Foundation to act as the safety net and building block for our future. To learn more about Donor-Advised Funds and how you can help, please click here.

FLORENCE WERNER – OF BLESSED MEMORY

The importance of philanthropy and tikkun olam, repairing the world, was central to Florence Werner’s life. Through the Florence J. Werner Lion of Judah Endowment fund, Florence’s philanthropy and Jewish values will continue in perpetuity. An Eshet Chayil, a woman of valor, she will be forever remembered by friends and family. Click here to read her remarkable story.






IN HIS OWN WORDS: MARC A. LEVIN

I am a firm believer in the importance of tzedakah, family and Jewish tradition. There are so many charitable organizations to support, but Jews are primarily the only ones who will support other Jews. It is important to me that the legacy I create reflects my current charitable priorities. That is why I chose to make such a significant gift to the Greater Miami Jewish Federation in my will. I know my Jewish values and my love for Jewish music and culture will live on in this community through my legacy commitment. Click here to read more about his commitment to a secure Jewish future.



ADVISORS AND CLIENTS: THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PHILANTHROPIC CONVERSATION

In 2018, U.S. TRUST® published a Study of the Philanthropic Conversation taking place between professional advisors and their high net worth clients. “I have always felt it’s the responsibility of the professional advisor to raise the topic of philanthropy with a client and present all of their options; it’s part of the overall estate planning process,” said Norman Lipoff, estate planning attorney and partner with Greenberg Traurig. Click here to read more about how these conversations can be initiated, resulting in stronger client relationships.


Your Donor-Advised Philanthropic Fund at The Foundation

As the current crisis has changed the way we do business, we want you to know The Foundation continues to be fully operational and is making grants on a weekly basis in support of charitable organizations in our local community and around the world. If you already have a Donor-Advised Fund with The Foundation, we encourage you to access your fund through our secure donor portal site. It’s as easy as 1-2-3 and we are here to show you how to securely login with your unique username and password to access your fund, check balances, make grant recommendations, see your giving history and more. Read more.


About The Foundation

Whether you want to make a difference in the world, reduce your taxes or benefit from an increased income stream, The Foundation of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation is ready to work with you, your family and your professional advisors to help you meet your philanthropic goals and find ways to give smarter.

Your Foundation gift can feed the hungry, care for vulnerable, elderly Jews, educate children or fulfill the vision you have for a better tomorrow for the Jewish people. If you want to strengthen Jewish identity, safeguard Jews in Israel and around the world or encourage the next generations to embrace their rich Jewish heritage in meaningful and innovative ways — or all of the above — The Foundation can turn your philanthropic aspirations into reality.



Steve Foldes, Chair of The Foundation
Scott Kaplan, The Foundation Director
Shelly Brodie, Forever Lions Chair
Steven A. Wagner, Investment Committee Chair
Jill Hagler, Director of Foundation Development
Gabriel Simkin, Investment Analyst

Professional Advisors Council (PAC)
Susan Morrison, Chair
Adam Kaplan, Director

Golden Care Foundation
Paul Kruss and Dr. Joseph Singer, Co-Chairs
Mindy Tucker, Golden Care Director
Miriam Masia, Golden Care Assistant Director


Isaac K. “Ike” Fisher, Chair of the Board
Jacob Solomon, President & CEO
Ariel Bentata, General Campaign Chair
Jeffrey Y. Levin, Chief Development Officer
Abbey Feinberg, Annual Campaign Director