L'Chaim: To Life Gala a huge success

PHOTO: The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland's Gala drew a sold-out crowd of 365 people to celebrate 100 years of the vibrancy, depth and breadth of programs and institutions that connect our community. The Gala raised more than $870,000 for the 2023 Campaign for Community Needs. See story and more photos Below. Photos by Andie Petkus Photography.

 

“All of you here ensure the vibrancy of Jewish Portland,” said Jewish Federation of Greater Portland President and CEO Marc Blattner as he welcomed nearly 400 people who were “finally able to come together to celebrate Federation’s 100th birthday … as we begin our next century.”
L’Chaim Gala Chair Ed Tonkin said when planning began in 2019, they knew the second century would look different from the first, and the past two years expanded the changes. 
“Our community thrived under duress,” said Tonkin, noting a strong Jewish Federation ensures a vibrant Jewish community. “It’s not the first time we have overcome challenges … Together, we will continue overcoming challenges.”
JFGP Chief Development Officer Wendy Kahn introduced a video reminiscing on Federation's 100 years of vibrancy, depth and breadth. “There are so many programs, institutions, places and opportunities for individuals and families to connect Jewishly … and the Jewish Federation proudly continues to convene and connect the community through our capacity to raise and allocate funds and provide leadership for the community.”
Trevor Bryant, a young adult who moved to Portland three years ago, said that is exactly why he supports the Jewish Federation. “I’ve always been very involved in the Jewish community … but when I think of who works for everyone, I think of the Federation.”
Add your support for the community at jewishportland.org/campaign-for-community-needs.