We have been blessed to live in what might be the best of times for Jews in America and the world. Post Holocaust physical security, nearly universal acceptance in American society, and an economically thriving Israel have given us security, pride and engagement.

Looking forward to future generations, there are huge challenges. Foremost on our minds are rising anti-Semitism, instability in the Middle East and the American Jewish community’s challenges of low birth rate and inter-marriage.

We look to Federation as the central address for coping with these challenges as well as promoting an environment in which Jewish children, grandchildren and future generations will thrive. Our legacy gift is important to us as a commitment to allow those generations to engage in Jewish life in a manner that will be as meaningful to them as ours has been to us.