Each year, members of the Tidewater Jewish community generously support programs and initiatives that strengthen Jewish life locally, in Israel, and around the world through programs and initiatives not only funded but, in some cases, led by the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater (UJFT).  UJFT serves as recognized leader and facilitator in the development of resources, both human and financial, to meet the evolving needs of the community. But what if that impact could extend beyond the present, ensuring a thriving Jewish future for generations?

UJFT programs are traditionally funded through annual campaign gifts from donor contributions, sponsorships, and grants outside of the annual campaign, along with Tidewater Jewish Foundation Donor Advised Fund grants, providing essential resources for Jewish education, community engagement, security, and advocacy. However, the opportunity to create endowments for these programs ensures their long-term sustainability and reduces reliance on yearly fundraising efforts. Endowed funds create a lasting impact, allowing donors to secure the future of the causes they care about most while providing financial stability to the organizations that serve the Jewish community.

Through the partnership between the Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF) and UJFT, donors have the opportunity to make a lasting difference by establishing endowments and Area of Interest funds that provide perpetual support for the causes they cherish most.

“TJF is dedicated to securing permanent financial resources for our Jewish community, both now and for the future,” said Naomi Limor Sedek, President & CEO of TJF. “We actively educate individuals, families, and organizations like UJFT about the rewards of philanthropy and simplify the giving process through planned giving and endowments.”

“TJF is a resource for UJFT as we build and grow our endowment and legacy funds,” said Betty Ann Levin, UJFT’s Executive Vice President/CEO. “This partnership helps ensure that the programs, initiatives, and agencies our community depends on will continue to be funded, not just for today, but for tomorrow and beyond.”

One such program in need of endowment is PJ Library, a Jewish family engagement initiative that provides free, high-quality Jewish children's books and music to families. Funded by yearly donations and grants, PJ Library serves to strengthen Jewish identity from an early age. However, without a dedicated endowment, the program remains dependent on annual fundraising efforts, putting its future at risk.

“PJ Library is one of the most impactful engagement tools we have for young families,” said Betty Ann. “Through books and music, it introduces Jewish values and traditions in an accessible and meaningful way. The program’s reach has expanded in our community has expanded in the last several years through the PJ Our Way providing more opportunities and interaction with older children.   Ensuring its longevity through endowment would guarantee that future generations can benefit from this incredible resource.”

TJF continues to steward Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowments (PACE) and Lion of Judah Endowments (LOJE). PACE funds allow donors to establish a permanent endowment that provides ongoing support to the UJFT’s annual campaign, ensuring that their contributions continue making an impact year after year. LOJE funds specifically allow women who are part of the Lion of Judah giving society to endow their annual campaign gifts, ensuring that their legacy of support for Jewish causes continues in perpetuity.

The Impact of Legacy Giving

“We meet donors wherever they are on their philanthropic journey,” said Naomi. "Legacy giving is not just about the future—it's about making thoughtful decisions today that will shape vibrant Jewish tomorrows. Every individual can create a lasting impact through a named fund, an estate gift, or an endowment."

In FY 2024 alone, $5.6 million was distributed to UJFT, the Simon Family JCC, and the Sandler Family Campus from LOJE/PACE funds, donor-advised funds, and other foundations. Of that, $2.8 million was allocated to the Israel Emergency Campaign, underscoring the essential role of permanent funding sources in responding to urgent needs.

Secure Your Legacy Today

By planning now, donors can ensure that their support continues far beyond their lifetimes. Contact Naomi Limor Sedek at 757-965-6109 or nsedek@tjfva.org to start a conversation about creating a legacy that aligns with your values and passions.