05/23/2023

WATCH: Global Cleveland Receives 2023 Eisenman Award

Tags: Federation, Video

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The Jewish Federation of Cleveland announced at the 119th Annual Meeting on May 22 that Global Cleveland has been named the 99th recipient of the Charles Eisenman Award, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s highest civic honor for outstanding contributions to our community.

“Global Cleveland is the ideal recipient of this year’s Eisenman Award as the role they play for the immigrant community in Cleveland mirrors that of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s role in the Jewish community,” said Daniel N. Zelman, Federation board chair. “On behalf of the Federation’s Board of Trustees and the selection committee, I want to thank the Global Cleveland team for all they do for our city and congratulate them on this well-deserved and prestigious honor.”

Cleveland is currently home to more than 125,000 immigrant residents. Global Cleveland was formed in 2011 to advance unity, solidarity, and collective community-building among international newcomers. The organization hosts a variety of programs including Global Rising for young professionals, a sister cities conference to open the door for global business connections and cross-cultural partnerships, and international student welcoming events.

Most recently, with the war in Ukraine, Global Cleveland has convened a group of refugee response organizations in Cleveland to make sure nothing falls between the cracks of government funds and what refugees need to survive.

“I think our legacy has to be how do we continue to innovate and welcome people, but also realize there are many core strengths that Cleveland has that can be awakened to make us the most welcoming and embracing international city in North America,” said Joe Cimperman, Global Cleveland president.

In addition to the presentation of the Charles Eisenman Award, the annual meeting featured remarks by Dr. Kenneth W. Stein, professor emeritus at Emory University and founding president and chief content officer at the Center for Israel Education, as well as an election of Federation trustees.

Learn More: Federation, Video