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Jewish nonprofits are struggling. How should donors try to rescue them?

Jewish nonprofits down $650 million

By BEN SALES NEW YORK (JTA) — In the weeks after it became clear that the coronavirus pandemic would spark a lasting economic crisis, the Jewish world’s leading funder group put together a memo with some back-of-the-envelope projections for how much Jewish nonprofits stood to lose.

The tally: at least $650 million, according to the internal document from the Jewish Federations of North America, which was based on estimates from several American Jewish umbrella organizations, such as the Foundation for Jewish Camp and the JCC Association of North America. The document was produced in March and obtained by the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.
The document says Jewish camps, schools, community centers and other groups like college Hillels will need that much or more to make it through the pandemic, which has already caused widespread layoffs and furloughs at Jewish community centers across the United States.
On Monday, a coalition of large Jewish philanthropic foundations pledged $80 million to shore up struggling Jewish organizations. But now, with it becoming increasingly clear that the world will not snap back to its former shape anytime soon, that number appears to be a fraction of what will be needed. Doron Krakow, CEO of the JCC Association of North America, told JTA earlier this month that the need would exceed $800 million if camps have to close for the summer and a recession drags into a second year.
The sudden financial blow is reanimating a longstanding debate about the best way to support America’s robust infrastructure of Jewish nonprofits. Should collective, communal fundraising bodies like Jewish federations have responsibility for disbursing philanthropy across the Jewish world? Or should the wide array of private Jewish family foundations each give separately to their causes?
Proponents of the network of Jewish federations, which act as collective funding bodies for local Jewish communities across the country, have suggested a single massive pool of coronavirus philanthropic assistance, to be managed centrally. No overarching plan has been put forward yet, but the Jewish Telegraphic Agency has learned that several leading funders are working to form a fund that would provide loans to Jewish organizations on the brink of going broke.
Among them is Krakow, who has called for private Jewish foundations and Jewish federations, which act as collective charities for Jewish communities across the country, to create a loan fund of $1 billion.
“There’s a need to know with confidence that we can keep one eye on the horizon and know that there’s a day after,” he said.
But some in the world of Jewish philanthropy are already raising questions about whether a centrally administered megafund is the best strategy to shepherd geographically and programmatically diverse organizations through the crisis.
“A ‘Billion Dollar Fund,’ a ‘Jewish New Deal’ [or] a ‘COVID czar’ are fine and well-intentioned ideas that look good on paper and seem simple and straightforward, but they are anything but,” Andres Spokoiny, CEO of the Jewish Funders Network, which convenes Jewish donors and foundations, wrote in a recent essay in the publication eJewish Philanthropy.
“As leaders it’s our responsibility to accept reality and focus on practical, smaller-scale, sector-specific solutions that can work,” Spokoiny wrote. “The aggregate of all those will be surely larger than any central fund and will produce a richer and more vibrant result.”
The $80 million fund, announced Monday, appears to attempt a third way. It’s a coalition between the Jewish Federations of North America and eight large Jewish philanthropic foundations. Called the Jewish Community Response and Impact Fund, it will prioritize organizations that focus on education, leadership and engagement, though a press release did not provide further detail on those fields.
The fund will provide short-term loans to organizations to meet payroll and maintain operations in the next three to six months, and will also award grants that do not have to be repaid. Participating foundations include the Jim Joseph Foundation, Maimonides Fund, Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation and others.
“We have also seen firsthand the acute challenges Jewish organizations across the country are facing,” read a statement from the funders. “While this fund alone cannot address all of those challenges, we believe that investing together in these vital pillars of Jewish life will help ensure a stronger future for American Jewry in the months and years to come,”
Beyond that fund, experts in American Jewish philanthropy say that large individual donors and family foundations are likely to eschew putting their money in a giant pool. While federations used to dominate the Jewish giving scene, they and their ethos of collective giving have ceded more ground to private foundations, as large donors have become more involved in the causes they fund and more particular about how their money is spent.
“If we’ve seen any trend in philanthropy over the course of the last number of decades, it’s to targeted giving,” said Jack Wertheimer, a professor of American Jewish history at the Jewish Theological Seminary. “Donors are leery of giving large amounts of their philanthropy to a pot that will be divided up, not according to their own wishes but according to the directives of some body that would make the decision. Federations obviously have suffered from this.”
But there’s still interplay between large donors and federations, said Hanna Shaul Bar Nissim, a visiting scholar at Brandeis University who focuses on American Jewish philanthropy. Many Jewish family foundations give to their local Jewish federations and, in turn, sit on their boards or have influence over where the federation money goes.
“The golden rule of, the size of your donation impacts the size of your involvement, is very relevant to the world of Jewish federations,” said Bar Nissim, who is also deputy director of the Ruderman Family Foundation. “The more you give, the more you can have a say and become involved.”
No matter how the debate is settled — or whether it is at all — it’s clear that funders must move quickly if they are to blunt the effects of the pandemic, which has rendered at least 20 million Americans jobless in just four weeks.
Other Jewish philanthropies have also started doling out funds. New York’s UJA-Federation has announced $43 million in grants to social service organizations, JCCs and individuals in need.
And the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, which usually gives approximately $3 million annually to Jewish camps, has announced an additional $10 million in matching grants to help camps survive whatever financial damage this coming summer may bring.
The foundation’s leadership understands that $10 million is not nearly enough to fill camps’ anticipated needs — that would take about $150 million, the foundation estimates. Still, Sarah Eisinger, who heads the foundation’s camp initiative, said she hoped the $10 million dollars would set an example and give the camps a measure of hope.
“It’s only one intervention,” she said. “It’s only one slice of a much larger pie. But the early impact of that money and the psychological lift of a shot in the arm will fuel a sense of optimism and a possibility to raise resources.”
The foundation moved quickly in part because its president, Winnie Grinspoon, realized that hewing to longstanding giving practices, or waiting for them to be renegotiated, would deepen the financial devastation that is already unfolding.
“This is an unprecedented situation, as we all know, and the rules and restrictions we might operate under at a normal time go out the window,” Grinspoon said.
She added, “This is the moment to give boldly, to go beyond our normal giving structure and limitations for those who are able to reach deep into their pockets, so we don’t look back with regret.”

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The secret to maintaining a healthy and balanced diet for your family

The key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle is starting young. As people with heart-related conditions increase, parents must instill healthy eating habits that can be a bonus for their children.
This article explores the importance of developing a healthy heart health plan from the very beginning. It will introduce you to some of the key ingredients that can help strengthen your family’s diet.
The Bedrock of Heart Health Begins in Youth
Getting the message about heart health early in life is very important to help children develop a healthy lifestyle. It can help them make informed decisions when it comes to their diet. This is also about creating a culture that values the importance of healthy eating.
The Power of Seafood in a Heart-Healthy Diet
One of the most important components of a healthy diet is the addition of seafood. Fish, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, are rich in omega-3 fats, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Even though these common choices are great, the magic doesn’t stop there. There are also countless other ways to enjoy seafood that could be more well-known.
Seafood Gumbo: A Heart-Healthy Culinary Delight
One of the most popular ways to enjoy seafood is through a seafood gumbo. This dish is filled with hearty ingredients and is a great example of how healthy eating can still taste great.
The addition of seafood in a gumbo recipe provides a potent dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Its healthy ingredients also help boost its nutritional value. This dish can be prepared with a variety of vegetables and is a great addition to any family meal. Having a bowl of this dish can warm the soul and nourish the body.
The Versatility of Seafood in Family Meals
Adding seafood to family meals can have a huge impact on cardiovascular health. There are many ways to prepare seafood dishes that cater to varying palates.
You can create a variety of seafood dishes that are perfect for any family meal, such as shrimp stir-fry, baked cod, and grilled salmon. Each of these dishes has its own unique flavor and nutrients, making them an exciting and nutritious addition to any meal. By teaching children about the various ways to prepare seafood, they can develop an interest in learning more about heart health.
Embracing Whole Grains and Fiber-Rich Foods
Fiber-rich food and whole grains are vital components of the dietary landscape in promoting heart health. Whole wheat, brown rice, and quinoa are examples of foods that are filled with nutrients such as fiber, which can help lower cholesterol.
Being able to incorporate these into family meals is both delicious and simple. For example, adding whole-grain bread or brown rice to a breakfast routine can make a significant impact on the family’s diet.
The Role of Fruits and Vegetables
Vegetables and fruits are vital components of a heart-healthy diet as they contain powerful antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that can help fend off cardiovascular disease.
Creating a colorful “rainbow” on your plate can help ensure that a wide variety of nutrients are consumed. Creative presentation and kids’ participation in the cooking process can make adding vegetables and fruits more fun and appealing.
Limiting Processed Foods and Sugars
While it’s important to include healthy ingredients in the diet, it’s also important to minimize the consumption of processed food and sugary drinks. Their high levels of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and salt can negatively affect one’s heart health.
To minimize the consumption of these products, it’s important that the family is taught about the nutrition labels of food and makes conscious decisions at the grocery store. Doing so can help promote a culture of healthy eating.
The Importance of Regular Physical Activity
A heart-healthy diet and regular physical activity go hand-in-hand. Encouraging the family to get active not only helps promote cardiovascular health, it also fosters a stronger bond among household members. Whether it’s a stroll, a vigorous hike, or a family bonding activity, such activities promote a wholesome heart and a resilient unit.
Cultivating a Heart-Healthy Kitchen
Embracing a heart-healthy diet requires cultivating a supportive environment that encourages the appropriate choices.
Educating the Family
Getting the family informed about the importance of a healthy diet can help motivate everyone to make better decisions.
Creative Cooking
Try incorporating healthy ingredients into recipes that are fun and flavorful. The kitchen should serve as a place of joy and discovery.
Leading by Example
Kids learn by example. Whenever parents make conscious decisions regarding their health, they inspire them to do the same.
Accessibility
Make sure that the ingredients and snacks that are heart-healthy are easily accessible. Healthy options are more likely to be chosen when they are made more accessible.
Building a Supportive Community
Extending beyond the immediate family can also help create a supportive environment that encourages the development of a heart-healthy lifestyle. It can be as simple as joining online forums that are focused on heart-healthy living or sharing recipes with friends. A supportive community helps individuals maintain their commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
The key to creating a heart-healthy diet for the entire family is making conscious choices regarding food. By introducing healthy ingredients such as seafood into their meals, families can have a variety of options that support cardiovascular health.

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Bobbie Rosenfeld: Canada’s Trailblazing Athlete and Advocate

Bobbie Rosenfeld was a force to be reckoned with. Not only was she a phenomenal athlete, excelling in both basketball and baseball, but she also became a fierce advocate for gender equality in sports. Her story is one of exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and a fight for change that paved the way for future generations of female athletes in Canada and beyond.

Early Life and Athletic Beginnings

Rosenfeld grew up in Montreal, Quebec, in a family that instilled a love of sports in her. Her father, a dentist, and her mother, a homemaker, encouraged Bobbie and her younger brother to participate in various athletic activities. Bobbie’s exceptional talent for basketball became evident early on. She honed her skills playing in local leagues and quickly established herself as a standout player. Her height, agility, and strategic mind for the game made her a formidable force on the court.

Meanwhile, Bobbie’s passion for baseball also blossomed. At a time when girls were largely discouraged from playing baseball, Bobbie defied expectations. She joined a boys’ league, disguising herself as a boy named Bobby Rosenfeld. Her talent was undeniable, and she thrived in the competitive environment. However, her true identity was eventually discovered, forcing her out of the league. This incident highlighted the stark gender inequalities prevalent in sports during that era.

Basketball Stardom and International Recognition

Undeterred by the setback in baseball, Bobbie poured her focus into basketball. Her dedication and talent paid off. She played for the Montreal YM-YWHA Wildcats, a dominant team that won numerous provincial and national championships. Bobbie’s exceptional skills earned her a spot on the Canadian women’s national basketball team in 1963. She quickly became a key player, leading the team to victory at the 1964 Pan American Games in Brazil.

Rosenfeld’s international success continued. She was part of the Canadian team participating in the 1967 FIBA World Championship for Women in Czechoslovakia. Though Canada placed sixth, Bobbie’s individual brilliance shone through. She was the tournament’s leading scorer, a testament to her offensive prowess. Her talent and leadership on the court garnered her recognition as one of the best female basketball players in the world.

Basketball fans can elevate their enjoyment of the game with BetVictor Canada by adding excitement and engagement to their viewing experience. By placing bets on their favorite teams and players, fans can feel more connected to the action on the court and have a vested interest in the outcome of the game.

Breaking Barriers

Despite her athletic achievements, Rosenfeld faced constant challenges due to gender discrimination. Female athletes received little to no media coverage compared to their male counterparts. Opportunities for professional careers in women’s sports were virtually nonexistent. Funding for women’s athletic programs was scarce, hindering training and development.

Rosenfeld refused to accept the status quo. She became a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports. She used her platform as a star athlete to speak out against discrimination and demand better opportunities for female athletes. Bobbie and other pioneering women athletes lobbied for increased media coverage, improved funding for women’s sports programs, and the creation of professional leagues for women.

Her fight for equality extended beyond basketball. Rosenfeld and Judith Pogson, another prominent Canadian athlete, played a pivotal role in getting baseball officially recognized as a women’s sport in Canada in 1970. This decision opened doors for countless young girls who, like Rosenfeld, harbored a passion for baseball.

Beyond Athletics

Rosenfeld’s athletic career was tragically cut short in 1970 due to a car accident. However, her impact on Canadian sports and beyond continued to resonate. She became a symbol of athletic excellence and a tireless advocate for gender equality. Her legacy inspired a generation of female athletes to pursue their dreams and challenge the existing structures that limited their opportunities.

In recognition of her achievements, Bobbie Rosenfeld was inducted into the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985 and Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1995. Her story continues to be a source of inspiration for young athletes, particularly girls, who strive for excellence in sports.

Final Thoughts

Bobbie Rosenfeld’s legacy extends far beyond her athletic achievements. She was a trailblazer who fought for equality and paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Her unwavering determination, exceptional talent, and unwavering commitment to social justice continue to inspire athletes and advocates for equality today. Bobbie Rosenfeld’s story reminds us that courage, dedication, and a strong voice can break even the most significant barriers.

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Toronto home sales up in February from last year as consumers eye rate cuts: TRREB

The Toronto real estate market saw a big increase in home sales this February. The increase was compared to the same period last year. The data comes from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB). This trend suggests an increasing optimism among consumers, potentially spurred by anticipations of rate cuts. The dynamics of the Toronto real estate market are indicative of a shift in consumer behavior and underlying market trends, reflecting broader economic signals and policy implications.

Home sales rose in February. This happened amid a complex mix of economic factors. These included the current interest rates, government housing policies, and global economic trends. The expectation of rate cuts is key. Lower rates cut borrowing costs, making mortgages cheaper for buyers. This prospect can increase demand in real estate. It will drive up sales and might impact prices.

Sales rose. This was due to the growing confidence of consumers. They are confident in the market and the broader economy. After uncertain times, like the pandemic, signs of recovery and stability can encourage buyers. Moreover, the rise in listings reported by TRREB. It suggests that sellers are also responding to these market conditions. They are providing more options for buyers. This is contributing to the market’s overall activity.

However, the dynamics of the Toronto real estate market are not without challenges. Housing affordability and supply problems are still key policy topics. More sales might make these issues worse. This might happen if demand outpaces the supply of homes. That would cause price hikes. The hikes could strain many buyers’ ability to afford homes.

In response to these challenges, many groups are exploring solutions. These include policymakers, developers, and community organizations. They want to increase housing supply and affordability. The strategies include changes in zoning laws. They also include incentives for affordable housing construction. And they include initiatives to help first-time homebuyers. These are the approaches being considered to address these pressing issues.

The TRREB report also shows the importance of staying informed about market trends. Economic indicators can affect the real estate market. Potential buyers and sellers can use these trends to make informed choices. Resources like Avalon offer valuable insights and information that can assist consumers in navigating the complexities of the real estate market.

As the Toronto real estate market continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor these trends and their implications for housing affordability, market stability, and economic growth. The increase in home sales in February is a positive sign, but addressing the broader challenges facing the market will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved.

The urbanization and immigration patterns in Toronto’s population continue to put pressure on the real estate market. The city’s appeal as a center for work, education, and cultural diversity supports a consistent demand for housing. The need for a planned approach to housing construction that emphasizes not only quantity but also quality and diversity of housing options to suit the needs of a diverse population is highlighted by this demographic pressure.

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