Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) raised $42.7 million in its 2011 Annual Campaign, surpassing the original $41 million campaign goal. In 2011, 3,177 donors increased their contributions, and more than 1,000 people made a gift for the first time. Overall, returning donors increased their giving over the previous year by an average of 14.36 percent.

President Barry Shrage said a donor-centered approach to philanthropy has been a game-changer at CJP.

“We’ve changed the whole notion of Federated giving, and focused on becoming true partners with our donors. We offer a wide range of giving options, so philanthropists can be as hands-on as they choose to be at CJP,” said Shrage. “Above all, we make sure they know the impact of their gift. Nothing is more compelling than knowing that you made a difference in your community.”

In the coming year, successful fundraising efforts will support the launch or expansion of new projects that embody CJP’s commitment to innovation. Plans include:

• Creating new opportunities for people with disabilities through the Young Adults Transition to Work program. In partnership with Jewish Vocational Service, Hebrew SeniorLife, and the Ruderman Family Foundation, CJP will provide training and employment support to maximize the potential of recent high school graduates and other young adults with disabilities.
• The expansion of CJP’s Birthright Israel Campus Initiative to Amherst, Wellesley and Williams Colleges, as well as to Brown University and MIT. Already a success at Harvard, Brandeis and other Boston schools, CJP’s Campus Initiative helps recruit students for Taglit-Birthright Israel trips, and engages them in Jewish life and Israel advocacy on their return.
• Launching a new effort to identify and support at-risk youth and families in Israel. A new program, developed in collaboration with municipal and social service partners in Haifa will help ensure that young parents, teachers and children receive the education and tools they need to build a successful future.