Greater Miami Jewish Federation Hosts Successful Pacesetter Event
A record-setting crowd of more than 520 of Miami’s most dedicated philanthropists came together on the fifth night of Chanukah for the Greater Miami Jewish Federation Pacesetter Event, and rededicated themselves to bringing light and hope to Jewish people in need in Miami, in Israel and in more than 70 other countries throughout the world.
Chaired by Colleen and Richard Fain, this year’s Pacesetter Event took place at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach and featured a keynote speech by New York Times op-ed columnist and political and social analyst David Brooks. Another highlight of the evening was the lighting of Chanukah menorahs led by Miami-area clergy and joined by participants at each guest table.
Federation Board Chair Brian L. Bilzin and General Campaign Chair Robert G. Berrin shared reflections on their trip to Israel in the wake of an escalation of rocket attacks from Gaza. In response to their emotional presentations, Pacesetter Event attendees collectively pledged more than $6.2 million in gifts to the 2013 Federation/UJA Campaign. The Annual Campaign provides funding to 106 social-service, humanitarian and educational agencies and programs at home and overseas. This event also recognized members of our community who have created permanent endowments through The Foundation of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation.
Event participants also had the opportunity to learn about the launch of the Create a Jewish Legacy program in Miami, which represents a shared commitment by area synagogues, agencies and day schools to work together to secure more endowments to fund Jewish needs in the future.
Federation gratefully acknowledges its Proud Business Partners for their financial support of the Pacesetter Event. Platinum sponsors: Bilzin Sumberg Attorneys at Law, The Collection, Greenberg Traurig, and Wells Fargo. Gold sponsors: Akerman Senterfitt, Berkowitz Pollack Brant, City National Bank, Kent Security Services, The Miami Herald, Sabadell United Bank, Sapoznik Insurance & Associates, Inc., and Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, P.A. Silver sponsors: Crystal & Company and Meland Russin & Budwick P.A. Bronze sponsors: Carlton Fields Attorneys at Law, Higer Lichter & Givner and Kaufman Rossin & Company, P.A., CPAs. Pearl sponsors: BNY Mellon Wealth Management and Podhurst Orseck, P.A.
To learn more about the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, please visit JewishMiami.org or call 305.576.4000.
