Greater Miami Jewish Federation Pacesetter Event

Coming Together for Community: A Virtual Experience

Commitment and compassion were in full force at this year’s Greater Miami Jewish Federation Pacesetter Event. Coming Together for Community: A Virtual Experience gathered more than 460 of Miami’s most generous Jewish philanthropists for a meaningful evening on Wednesday, December 9, 2020. These leaders set the pace of giving for the Annual Federation/UJA Campaign.

Chaired by Leslie and Harry Benitah and Michelle and Matan Ben-Aviv, the event raised more than $2 million to support Federation’s work in Miami, Israel and across the world.

Guest speaker Dr. Arthur C. Brooks, in conversation with Dr. Erica Brown, highlighted the theme of unity by sharing his insights on the importance of civility while engaging in conversations during these divisive and challenging times. Attendees welcomed the opportunity to see each other virtually in small groups, buoyed by their shared purpose of giving back and enjoyed a special musical performance direct from Jerusalem by the Israel Defense Forces Choir, led by Chief Cantor Lt. Col. Shai Abramson. Participants also heard about all the ways Federation is helping people through the pandemic by supporting a critical network of services and agencies that provide a safety net for so many individuals and families.

Isaac K. “Ike” Fisher, Chair of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, shared a meaningful message about Federation’s work in the community.

Federation gratefully acknowledges its 2021 Proud Business Partners for their generous support. Platinum Sponsors are Bilzin Sumberg; The Collection; Greenberg Traurig; LSN Partners, Llorente & Heckler and Miami Herald. Gold Sponsors are Accesso; Akerman; City National Bank; GL Homes; Kaufman Rossin; Kent Security Services and Sapoznik Insurance & Associates. Silver Sponsors are JLL; Meland Budwick, P.A.; NFP, The Meltzer Group and Wells Fargo. Bronze Sponsors are Aetna; Carlton Fields; Houlihan Lokey; Iberia Bank | First Horizon; Omnia Family Wealth and Singer Wealth. Pearl Sponsors are Addison House; Apollo Bank; Baptist Health; Dacra; H&CO, LLP a Global CPA Firm; Holland & Knight; MBAF CPAs and Advisors; Northern Trust; Perry Ellis International; Podhurst Orseck, P.A. and Siegfried Rivera.

For more information about the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, please visit JewishMiami.org or call 305.576.4000.

The Pacesetter Event Co-chairs Leslie and Harry Benitah offered personal reflections on their Jewish journey and involvement with Federation.
Guests enjoyed a special musical performance by the Israel Defense Forces Choir.
The Pacesetter Event Co-chairs Michelle and Matan Ben-Aviv shared their pride in how Federation impacts the lives of so many in Miami, in Israel and throughout the world.
General Campaign Chair Ariel Bentata delivered a powerful and moving message on the important role Federation plays in the community, especially during these challenging times.
In an engaging and thoughtful discussion, guest speaker Dr. Arthur C. Brooks, in conversation with Dr. Erica Brown, highlighted the challenges and importance of civil discourse during these divisive times.