12/08/2025
Jewish Clevelanders Raise a Record $39,035,018 in Annual Campaign
The Jewish Federation of Cleveland announced that a record $39,035,018 has been raised by 9,036 gifts representing 12,094 donors in the 2026 Campaign for Jewish Needs. The Federation’s annual Campaign provides the critical dollars necessary to help keep our diverse, local community safe, strong, vibrant, and welcoming, as well as serve the needs of the global Jewish community.
Additionally, the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation matched all new gifts dollar for dollar, and matched every additional dollar when gifts were increased by 10% or more from September 7 – November 1. Likewise, Brunswick Companies donated an additional $1,000 to the 2026 Campaign in honor of every donor who upgraded to the next Giving Society during a Campaign event.
All of these totals were shared at the Campaign Closing event at Hebrew Academy of Cleveland on December 8.
“This Campaign isn’t the work of one person, but of an entire community standing shoulder to shoulder, showing up for one another and choosing, once again, to build a stronger Jewish future together,” said Amir Jaffa, general Campaign chair. “Every gift, every phone call, every hour volunteered becomes safety, dignity, compassion, and hope for someone in need. Thank you to our community for their tremendous generosity.”
In addition to celebrating the community’s accomplishments in the 2026 Campaign, attendees welcomed special guest Eli Sharabi, Israeli author and hostage survivor. After 491 days in Hamas captivity, Eli returned home on February 8, 2025. His bestselling memoir, Hostage—the first published by a survivor of Hamas captivity—shares a story of extraordinary resilience, courage, and hope.
Attendees also recognized Allison Brandon, recipient of the 2025 Ambassador Milton A. and Roslyn Z. Wolf Young Campaigner of the Year Award. A dynamic and dedicated leader, Allison embodies the spirit of repairing the world (tikkun olam) through her service as YLD Campaign co-chair and Super Sunday Kickoff co-chair.
Finally, attendees expressed their gratitude to outgoing Campaign Chair Amir Jaffa for his leadership over the past two years. In this volunteer role, he has provided the vision, strategy, and guidance behind the Federation’s annual fundraising efforts.
“Amir led our community’s annual Campaign with clarity, courage, and heart during one of the most challenging moments our community has faced,” said Jeffrey J. Wild, Federation board chair. “He empowered new voices, embraced innovation, and modeled what it means to lead with humility and conviction. Because of his unwavering dedication, our Campaign is stronger, our community is stronger, and the impact of his leadership will be felt long after his tenure.”
For more information about the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and the Campaign for Jewish Needs, visit www.jewishcleveland.org.
2026 Campaign for Jewish Needs Totals:
Total Dollars: $39,035,018
9,206 gifts representing 12,094 donors
Young Leadership Division raised $916,216 from 1,375 gifts
Women IN Philanthropy raised $5,757,930 from 3,045 gifts
High School/College raised $61,563 from 1,068 gifts
On behalf of those whose lives will be improved by this amazing communal support, thank you!
