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2016 Annual Report - Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary

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2016

Annual Report Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary


2016 | By the Numbers • 116 Funds, including custodial funds • 10 New funds • $8.9 million in Assets • Capital additions of $2,216,373 (33%) • 400 Tribute Cards delivered • 195 Grant cheques written to seventy-three charities • $299,200 in Distributions • 10 academic bursaries totalling $15,490 • 3 Jewish Essay Contest Awards totalling $5,400 • 1 Jewish Sports Leadership Award • Administrative expenses 1.34% of assets • 1 Philanthropy seminar on wealth transfer and family philanthropy • 1 BIG celebration of the JCFC’s 25th year at the opening of the Beth Tzedec Jewish Film Festival!


year, is especially pleasing during a period when investment markets were challenging.

Chair’s Message The Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary is about the dreams of our donors and their beneficiaries and their goal to support and maintain our community in perpetuity. These tenets capture the very essence of the JCFC’s mandate, the very reason for our existence and the work that we undertake each and every day. Last year’s results clearly demonstrate that on both a programmatic and financial level, the JCFC continues to move in a positive direction. At the conclusion of fiscal 2016 the JCFC has reached new milestones. Ten (10) new funds were entrusted to the JCFC, increasing our total funds to 116. Total assets under management grew to $8.9 million dollars, representing an increase of $2.2 million dollars or 33% over the prior year level. This increase in asset value is primarily attributable to the generosity of the late Steven Blitzz’l who provided substantial assets to help sustain our community year in and year out. Fiscal 2016 was also most satisfying from a granting perspective, with 195 cheques issued to 73 charities, distributing distributing almost $300,000. The JCFC has now distributed more than $3.2 million dollars since its creation twenty-six years ago. The 2015-2016 grant total, although down from the previous

For the twelve-month period ending June 30, 2016, the gross investment return on the managed funds portion of our portfolio was 1.87%, before investment management fees. In comparison, the TSX composite was essentially flat on a total return basis inclusive of dividend yield of -0.20% for the same twelve-month period. It should be recognized that the JCFC investment return represents a snapshot in time, taken at June 30, 2016. The new fiscal year is off to a fine start, with strong returns in July (up 2.2%) and August (up 0.4%). On a net basis, after investment management fees are deducted, the JCFC is reporting a gain of 1.0% on our managed funds. Amid challenging market conditions, the JCFC’s investment portfolio continues to preserve capital and generate income. Thank you to the members of the Investment Committee for their commitment and thoughtful oversight. The practice of good governance continues as a point of emphasis for the JCFC. During the past year, we embarked upon an investment manager review via a formal Request for Proposal involving seven management firms. The Investment Committee completed a thorough review of the written proposals and conducted in person interviews with two firms. The process is ongoing and has already resulted in changes to our investment policies reflecting both the current economic and political environment, including a stated commitment to avoid investments, to the extent possible, that are associated with efforts to boycott, divest or sanction Israel. It is anticipated that the manager review process will be complete and a decision undertaken prior to the end of the calendar year. Turning to JCFC programming, it is particularly pleasing to note our teen philanthropy initiatives, offered for the third year at Camp

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

BB Riback, and the inaugural year of the Dorshei Tzedec program, delivered in conjunction with Beth Tzedec Congregation (see article on page 14). Teen philanthropy programs are an effective way to engage and develop our future leaders and donors. We thank Calgary B’nai Brith Lodge #816 for underwriting the program in 2016 and for their continued commitment in 2017. JCFC is also proud to announce the launch of its “Legacy Calculator.” The calculator is a practical tool that individuals and families can use to determine the potential of their philanthropic legacy. It is especially useful in showing the tax benefits of charitable giving when done as part of an estate plan. In many situations, donors are able to use tax credits to give generously with minimal impact on the estate left to heirs. The “Legacy Calculator” will be available at our homepage at www.jcfc.ca, in November. In closing, it is my pleasure to acknowledge Bettina Liverant Zeisler who served as the JCFC’s Chair from 2011 – 2015. Under her leadership the JCFC set the bar high, advancing the professionalism of our organization on many fronts including a new website, By-laws, policies in respect to Disclosure, Distribution, Gift Acceptance, and Investment, and the presentation of our Annual Reports. We thank Bettina for her past service and are delighted that she continues to serve the JCFC as Past Chair. I also wish to acknowledge Eric Switzer who has served the JCFC as a Director and Chair of the Investment Committee for more than a decade. We thank Eric for his past service and are pleased that he will continue to serve as a member of the Investment Committee. Sincerely,

Stuart A. Myron, Chair

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2015–2016 | Making a Difference Our donors create legacies. The Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary manages one hundred and sixteen funds to help donors realize their vision and commitment to all sectors of our community.

ISRAEL

8%

RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS

13%

Endowment funds enable donors to select programs, organizations and causes to sustain in perpetuity. Allocations in the fund’s name are made from the income generated by the fund. The capital in the fund remains untouched. Endowment fund donors keep memories alive forever. Donor advised flow-through funds take advantage of Canada Revenue regulations encouraging the donation of assets such as stocks and bonds. The donor receives a tax receipt for the full value of the donation in the year that it is given, does not have to pay capital gains taxes associated with the assets they donate, and has three years

COMMUNITY & SOCIAL SERVICES

15%

CULTURE

19%

$299,220 in Grants made in Partnership with our Donors by Field of Interest to disburse the capital in their fund to organizations and programs they wish to support. Capital remaining in the fund at the end of three years can be used to establish an endowment fund or redirected to other funds held by the JCFC.

JCFC Grants and Disbursements Cumulative | Millions ($) 3.5

Custodial funds are established by a charitable organization or foundation that entrusts the JCFC with the long term management of their endowment funds while retaining ownership of the funds.

3.0 2.5 2.0

Undesignated funds are created by donors who wish to leave a legacy without restrictions. These funds enable the Foundation’s Grants and Allocations Committee to respond to changing needs of our community and fund innovative projects.

1.5 1.0 0.5 0

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45%

EDUCATION

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

JCFC encourages charitable giving by making it easy, efficient and tax-smart.

2016 | ANNUAL REPORT


Celebrating | 25 Years Twenty five years ago a small group of Jewish community leaders had the foresight to establish a foundation that would build the financial resources necessary to support the maintenance and vibrancy of Calgary Jewish life in perpetuity. Their vision has borne fruit. At the end of our most recent fiscal year, 116 individuals, families and/or organizations have established Funds and have entrusted their charitable assets to the Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary. Total assets now stand at a record $8.9 million dollars. Since inception the Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary has provided cumulative grants of approximately $3.2 million dollars to worthy charitable recipients. The efforts of the Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary are about much more than money. We seek to do good while inspiring and educating others to do good. The Foundation understands that philanthropy and tzedakah are learned by example.

Stuart Myron, Donna Riback, Wendy Kennelly, Gertrude Cohos, Sam Switzer and Bettina Liverant Zeisler.

It is our individual and collective responsibility to lay the foundation to sustain our community in perpetuity for future generations. Individually we can accomplish more than we think and collectively we can reach the objective. To celebrate 25 successful years in the Calgary Jewish Community, JCFC partnered with the Calgary Beth Tzedec Film Festival to present

the opening night film ‘Rock in the Red Zone’ followed by a performance by renowned Israeli singer Hagit Yaso. Stuart Myron, Foundation Chair, said “It felt right to celebrate the special anniversary while supporting one of this community’s most popular cultural events.”

Welcome | New Funds As a flexible and secure vehicle for philanthropy, the JCFC is pleased to work with those who wish to create a legacy that will support our community. Welcome to the following new funds, opened from July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016: • B eth Tzedec – Steven Blitz Bursary Endowment Fund

• Gary Rosenbaum Children’s Assistance Fund

• Bing Family Temple B’nai Tikvah Builders Fund

• Joy & Max Feldman Community Fund

• Craimer-Samuels Endowment Fund

• Prosperity Farm Legacy Fund

• R abinovitz Family Community Fund

• V ic Freidin Memorial Camp Scholarship Fund

• S teven Blitz Endowment Fund • S teven Blitz Charitable Trust

We wish to thank all of our donors for entrusting the Foundation with the care of their funds.

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

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2015–2016 | Funds in Action Funds List | Our Partners in Philanthropy We gratefully recognize the individuals and families who have the foresight and commitment to create permanent endowment funds at the Foundation. We celebrate their legacy, for this generation and generations to come, and we thank them for enabling the Foundation to grow. ENDOWMENT FUNDS

Issac Family Endowment Fund

Abe and Bertha Gold Endowment Fund

Jeffrey Secter Bursary Fund

Waterman Family Endowment Fund

Jerry Libin Community Fund

Wedro Holocaust Fund

DONOR ADVISED FLOW THROUGH FUNDS AND CUSTODIAL FUNDS

Alex and Phyllis Rubin Endowment Fund

Joe and Evelyn Busheikin Endowment Fund

William Cohen Memorial Scholarship Fund

Anne Frank Fund for Holocaust Education

Ann and Ralph Kalef Endowment Fund

Jonathan Berall Fund

Zeisler Family Endowment Fund

Asper Holocaust & Human Rights Education Fund

ENDOWMENT FUNDS (BY WAY OF INSURANCE POLICY)

Bogoch Family Endowment Fund for Jewish Education

Bonnie Kaplan Endowment Fund

Calgary Beth Tzedec Congregation Society Funds** (C)

Archie and Charna Shapiro Day Camp Fund Arlein and Dov Chetner Family Endowment Fund Bella Singer Memorial Endowment Fund

Kaganov Family Fund Krell Family Maccabi Endowment Fund Lynn Einstein and Lionel Groberman Endowment Fund Marilyn Libin Lion of Judah Endowment Fund

Daphne Taras and Allen Ponak Family Fund Faigel Shapiro and Daughters Endowment Fund

Chetner Family Community Fund Craimer-Samuels Family Fund Faigel Shapiro and Daughters Fund

Bing Family Temple B’nai Tikvah Founders Fund*

Max and Bessie Shulder Endowment Fund

Steven Blitz Charitable Trust*

Max and Molly Pressman Fund

Steven Blitz Endowment Fund*

Myron Family Endowment Fund

Jack and Betty Sharp Endowment Fund

Celia Rostoker Millman Fund for Jewish Education

Nate and Lily Horodezky Fund

Lipkind Family Endowment Fund

Norman and Beulah Martin Endowment Fund

Morris and Margaret Bleviss Endowment Fund

ITC Fund

Norman Silver Endowment Fund

Robert and Sydney Kalef Endowment Fund

Jeff and Wendy Kohn Community Fund

Sam and Ida Switzer Endowment Fund

Jewish Historical Society of Southern Alberta (C)

Yakov and Karen Behar Endowment Fund

Jewish War Veterans of Canada, Calgary Post #2

Charles Wainberg Memorial Fund Craimer-Samuels Family Endowment Fund* Dave King Memorial Fund David Waterman Endowment Fund Davidman Family Fund Donna Riback Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Donna Riback Temple B’nai Tikvah Building Fund Dr. David Lander Fund Elize and Lilian Zuidema Endowment Fund Fanny and Aaron Malkin Endowment Fund Frandel and Louis Belzberg Scholarship Fund Gary Rosenbaum Children’s Assistance Fund* Gladys & Mackie Shuler Health Support Fund

Paperny Family Fund Peter and Kim Cohos Community Fund Ralph and Florence Switzer Endowment Fund Rebecca Block Fund Rose Hallis Student Travel Bursary Fund Sarah and Julius Bleviss Endowment Fund Sema and Morris Belzberg Fund Shilling Family Fund for Community Development Solomon and Adelle Saper Family Fund Stan Libin Memorial Endowment Fund Switzer 2005 Family Reunion Fund

Halpern Family Endowment Fund

Ted and Betty Riback Camp Bursary Fund

Ida and Aron Eichler Fund for Jewish Education

Vic Freidin Memorial Camp Scholarship Fund*

Ida Switzer Lion of Judah Endowment Fund

Vivian Katz Endowment Fund for Jewish Education

Gertrude Cohos Endowment Fund

COMMUNITY ENDOWMENT FUNDS General Heritage Fund Holocaust / Second Generation Education Fund Holocaust Memorial Fund Library Fund March-of-the-Living Fund Second Generation Fund TEEN PHILANTHROPY (B’nai Mitzvah) FUNDS Brent Martin and Tedi Martin Fund Gabriel Manning Bar Mitzvah Fund

Fania & Leo Wedro Community Fund Fay (Smolensky) Schwartz Memorial Fund Jack Balaban Memorial Fund

Joy & Max Feldman Community Fund* Lewis Manning Charitable Fund Lexier Community Fund Maureen and Joe Katchen Fund Mayer Family Fund PJ Library® Jewish Education Fund Prosperity Farm Legacy Fund* Rabinovitz Family Community Fund* Samuel and Ida Switzer FT Fund Sam Switzer Community Fund Sidney and Bronia Cyngiser Jewish Film Festival Fund Silverstone Family Community Fund

Molly Joffe Bat Mitzvah Fund

Stein Family Fund

Sierra Libin Philanthropy Fund

Susan Klein Memorial Fund Zeisler Family Charitable Fund

(C) custodial funds * new funds since our last annual general meeting ** In 2016 the Steven Blitz Bursary Fund was opened and added to the group of Beth Tzedec funds

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2016 | ANNUAL REPORT


2015–2016 | Year In Review

2015

August

2nd Annual Teen Philanthropy program facilitated at Camp BB Riback

October

November

2015 Annual General Meeting

Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of JCFC at the opening night of the Beth Tzedec Jewish Film Festival

Dorshei Tzedec Teen Philanthropy Program is Launched

2016

January

JCFC sponsors the 2016 JNF LAUGH YOURSELF SILLY EVENT

February

Western Region Hillel Conference luncheon sponsored by the Dov and Arlein Chetner Family Fund to promote post-secondary scholarships and the Chetner essay contest

May 2016 Philanthropy Luncheon with Michael Vukets Final Report & Cheque Presentation - Dorshei Tzedec Teen Philanthropy Program

2015 Grants & Allocations Meeting – Agency Grants & Scholarships Announcement of the 2016 Chetner Chai Essay Contest Winners

July 2016 Norman Silver Sports Leadership Award awarded to Jonah Steinberg

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

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2015–2016 | Statement of Financial Position June 30, 2016, with comparative information for June 30, 2015

2016

2015

983,567

379,789

808

919

984,375

380,708

7,099,365

5,493,878

State of Israel Bonds, at Cost Plus Amortization of Bond Discount

549,058

557,920

Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance

243,336

227,255

$8,876,134

$6,659,761

1,610

3,000

521,861

428,307

523,471

431,307

2,632,940

1,377,704

3,156,411

1,809,011

35,815

34,601

Restricted

2,186,895

2,279,513

Endowment

3,497,013

2,536,636

5,719,723

4,850,750

$8,876,134

$6,659,761

Assets Current assets: Cash and Cash Equivalents Accounts Receivable

Investments, at Fair Value

Liabilities and Fund Balances Current Liabilities: Accounts Payable Deferred Flow-through Grants

Custodial Funds

Foundation Funds: Unrestricted

These financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016 are derived from the audited financial statements prepared by our independent auditors, KPMG LLP. The Audited Financial Statement is available on-line and upon request.

Jewish continuity is important to us. What better way than contributing to the Calgary Jewish Community Foundation to support institutions we care about now and to ensure a vibrant Jewish future.” — Marilyn Samuels and David Craimer

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2016 | ANNUAL REPORT


2015–2016 | Condensed Statement of Operations and Changes in Foundation Funds Unrestricted

Restricted

Endowment

Flow-through

2016

2015

1,732

103,864

1,017,688

327,043

1,450,327

776,594

740

59,414

63,430

10,040

133,624

206,769

2,472

163,278

1,081,118

337,083

1,583,951

947,417

700

44,849

26,523

227,148

299,220

469,857

Insurance Premiums

-

8,432

32,958

-

41,390

41,384

Administrative Costs

604

34,059

48,665

8,242

91,570

90,330

Marketing and Advertising

100

5,651

8,035

1,363

15,149

10,479

82

4,609

6,555

1,112

12,358

14,184

202

16,214

17,310

2,740

36,466

35,946

1,688

113,814

140,046

240,605

496,153

662,180

Excess (deficiency) of Revenue Over Expenditures

784

49,464

941,072

96,478

1,087,798

321,183

Transfer Between Funds

430

(29,064)

19,305

9,329

-

-

Funds Transferred Out

-

(113,018)

-

(12,253)

(125,271)

-

Increase in Deferred Flow-through Grants

-

-

-

(93,554)

(93,554)

(88,179)

1,214

(92,618)

960,377

-

868,973

233,004

34,601

2,279,513

2,536,636

-

4,850,750

4,617,746

$35,815

$2,186,895

$3,497,013

-

5,719,723

$4,850,750

Revenue Contributions Investment Income (loss) Total Revenue Expenditures Grants

Audit and Legal Investment Management Charges Total Expenditures

Change in Foundation Funds in the Year Balance, Beginning of Year Balance, End of Year

These financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016 are derived from the audited financial statements prepared by our independent auditors, KPMG LLP. The Audited Financial Statement is available on-line and upon request.

As an Advisor in Philanthropy to indviduals, families and small business across Canada I have the privilege of working with a number of community foundations, donor advised funds and charities. Working with the Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary supporting my clients’ legacies and social vision has been a wonderful experience. In my practice I help people articulate family missions and values and create plans for executing on those social objectives. The JCFC supports the work that I do by offering the technical resources to facilitate meaningful gifts in an easy and cost-effective manner. The dedication of the staff and Board of Directors uniquely positions the JCFC to be a resource for all members of Calgary’s Jewish community as they plan out their own family’s legacy and the future of Calgary’s Jewish community.” — Gena Rotstein - Founder & Philanthropy Advisor, Dexterity Consulting

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

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2015–2016 | Report from Investment Committee Building Trust The Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary was built to last for generations to come. Safeguarding the philanthropic legacy of our donors and the security and impact of their charitable assets is the investment committee’s top priority. For the twelve-month period ending June 30th, 2016, the JCFC is reporting a gain of 1.0% on the managed funds portion of our pooled assets. Note that this return is net of (after) investment management fees. As of June 30th 2016, the JCFC had approximately $8.9 million dollars in assets after disbursements and expenses. During the fiscal period 2015-2016, the JCFC disbursed $299,200 to a broad range of organizations and causes in our local community and in Israel.

Risk Analysis At year end, the majority of JCFC assets ($8.1 million of $8.9 million) are pooled and invested in a diversified portfolio of conservative equities and bonds (including State of Israel Bonds), currently managed by Gluskin Sheff and Associates. The asset mix targets developed by the investment committee balance the need to preserve capital and maintain the purchasing power of the funds entrusted to Foundation with the need to earn a rate of return that enables funds to disburse grants and support the administration of the Foundation. The annual target is a 5% return. Last year, volatile financial markets, particularly in Canada, meant we missed this target.

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JCFC Funds | Millions ($)

9,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0

2012

2013

2014

Foundation Funds

2015

2016

Managed Funds

Total assets under management at fiscal year end.

Over a ten-year horizon, our investment policy is structured to achieve a growth of five to six percent, recognizing that there will be years such as 2014 when we achieved a 13.2% rate of return and other years like 20152016 when financial uncertainty is greater and the search for returns is more challenging. For this fiscal period, on a net of fees basis, the JCFC pooled portfolio gained +1.2% on investments in American equities, gained +3.5% on fixed income investments, and lost -1.4% on investments in Canadian equities. The JCFC’s gross investment return was +1.87%. The TSX suffered a loss of -0.2% (ROR) for the same twelve-month period. The positive

total portfolio performance was driven by strong performance in the US markets. However Canadian equities remain a challenge with negative returns, particularly in the commodity sector. It should also be recognized that JCFC investment returns for fiscal year 2015-2016 represent a snapshot in time, taken at June 30th 2016. The new fiscal year is off to a fine start, with strong returns in July (up 2.2%) and August (up 0.4%). In order to manage the financial risk of the erosion of capital, the Foundation employs a diversified total return investment strategy. In implementing such a strategy, the Foundation acknowledges some variability of the returns, as there are uncertainties associated

2016 | ANNUAL REPORT


Investment Returns & Portfolio Allocation Investment Returns (%) 9

14

8

12

7

10 8

6

6

5

4

4

2

3

0

2

-2

1

-4

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

0

Each year represents an average of the preceding five years.

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

5 Year Annualized

Annual Return

Asset Class

Investment by Region

53% Equity

70%

Canada

39% Fixed Income

23%

United States

7%

International

8%

Cash & Cash Equivalents

0%

JCFC INVESTMENTS AT JUNE 30, 2016

with investing in capital markets. At fiscal year-end 2016 the asset allocations were as follows: 53% in equity strategies (including positions in growth-oriented, yield-oriented and non-Canadian equities), 39% in fixed income strategies (including significant positions in State of Israel Bonds), and 8% in cash and cash equivalents. Globally, assets were 70% Canadian, 23% American, and 7% international.

the committee embarked on a formal review, requesting lengthy written proposals for investment management services from seven firms, including Gluskin Sheff, our current fund manager. The review is ongoing, but has resulted in a recommendation to amend the JCFC investment policy to allow our investment manager increased opportunities within a still conservative mandate.

The Investment Committee regularly reviews the target asset mix and the performance of our investment manager. This year

Cognizant of the current world environment, we have also added provisions to safeguard, to the extent possible, that JCFC

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

investments do not include securities issued by companies or entities participating in boycott or sanctions against Israel, Israeli agencies, companies or individuals. The JCFC is fortunate to have respected investors and investment professionals committed to providing thoughtful oversight, and we thank them for their involvement in securing the future of your funds and our community.

Eric Switzer, Chair JCFC Investment Committee

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2016 | Post-Secondary Scholarships JCFC has been granting post-secondary scholarships since 1998. Awards may be granted on the basis of need, academic merit, community leadership and future life plans. In 2016, ten scholarships were awarded through the following funds:

I feel so honoured and blessed to be part of such a special community and one that believes in and supports its members, especially the next generation. Thank you.” — 2016 JCFC Scholarship Recipient

Bogoch Family Endowment Fund | General Heritage Foundation Fund | Jeff and Wendy Kohn Community Fund Lewis Manning Charitable Fund | Peter & Kim Cohos Community Fund | Samuel Switzer by way of the Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary | Stan Libin Memorial Endowment Fund | Zeisler Family Community Fund

Grantees | 2015–16 Our fund holders make a difference: in the Jewish Community, in the general community and in Israel. Akiva Academy

Calgary Zoological Society

Giant Steps Foundation Montreal

Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation

Camp BB Riback

Glaucoma Research Society of Canada

ALS Society of Alberta Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories

Camp Hatikvah Foundation Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation Canadian Charity Partners

Raincoast Conservation Foundation Second Harvest

Haitian Education Society

Temple B’nai Tikvah

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, NWT & Nunavut

The Esther Honens International Piano Competition Foundation

Canadian Friends of Bar Ilan University

Heritage Park Society

BC SPCA

JEM Workshop Inc.

The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research

Beit Halochem Canada

Canadian Hadassah-WIZO

Jewish Family Service Calgary

The Miriam Foundation

Betty Ford Centre Society of Canada

Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society

Jewish Federation of Victoria & Vancouver Island

The Nature Conservancy of Canada

B’nai Brith Menorah Foundation

Canadian Red Cross

UN Watch Canada

Boys & Girls Clubs of Calgary

Canadian Wildlife Federation Inc.

Jewish Historical Society of Southern Alberta

Chabad Lubavitch of Alberta

Jewish Immigration Aid Services

United Way of Calgary and Area

Chevra Kadisha

Jewish National Fund

Weizmann Canada

Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba

Kehilat Shalom Society of Calgary

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

Magen David Adom

Calgary Counselling Centre

Climbers Access Society of British Columbia

Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation

Calgary Humane Society

Colorado State University

Calgary JCC Calgary Jewish Academy

Congregation House of Jacob Mikveh Israel

Momentum Community Economic Development Society

Calgary Jewish Community Centre

Contemporary Calgary Arts Society

National Council of Jewish Women of Canada

Calgary Jewish Federation

Cystic Fibrosis Canada

National Music Centre

Calgary Opera

Doctors Without Borders Canada

Parks Foundation Calgary

Calgary Pro Musica Society

Ecotrust Canada

Place2Give Foundation

ARBI

C.A.R.E. Centre Calgary Beth Tzedec Congregation Society Calgary Community Kollel Society

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McGill University

Unitarian Church of Calgary

World Wildlife Fund Canada

2016 | ANNUAL REPORT


Philanthropy | In Action Fund Profile | A Legacy Gift For Temple B’nai Tikvah

Judy and Ron Bing - 1980

The Jewish Community Foundation welcomes our newest fund holders, Ron & Judy Bing. Ron and Judy are recognized as long standing and engaged Jewish Calgarians. The Bing Family Temple B’nai Tikvah Builders Fund was created in June 2016 by way of a legacy bequest. Ron and Judy started Temple B’nai Tikvah in their Chinook Park home in April 1979. Judy was the first administrator/bookkeeper and Ron was the first president. They and the twelve families who joined them in religious worship had a vision that a Reform synagogue could thrive in our city. After a brief move to Regina in 1989, the Bings returned to Calgary in 1994 and immediately joined in the effort to raise funds for a permanent home for the congregation. On Saturday February 21, 2004, members of Temple B’nai Tikvah walked their Torahs to a new

home in Britannia. Following renovations, the dedication service of the new sanctuary was held on March 25, 2011.

is good for the Calgary Jewish Community. Temple has helped hundreds of people find a path to a fulfilling Jewish life.”

The Bings remain deeply involved in the synagogue: Judy has been the Temple Librarian; Ron helped with early building renovations and continues to assist the Executive Director in the care and upkeep of the Temple.

The Board of the Foundation admires the vision of Ron and Judy Bing. Together we can make legacies that last forever.

Ron explains that, “The longterm care of the facility is critical to the vibrancy of the congregation as a whole. Last year we spent over $200,000 on replacing three quarters of our roof. Our objective for leaving a bequest to Temple B’nai Tikvah is to provide income to assist with maintaining the building in the future.” Ron learned about legacy giving and endowments when good friend and past Chair of the Jewish Community Foundation, Donna Riback invited him to a JCFC meeting. “I thought, if she could do it, so could I!” says Ron. Once Judy and Ron made the decision to leave a bequest to support building maintenance and improvements at Temple, they worked with their lawyer and the JCFC to develop the right wording in their Will and a fund agreement. “It was very easy and only required time for two meetings.” Ron and Judy know that their gift will help Temple maintain its facilities far into the future and they hope that other members of the congregation will be inspired by their example and create their own legacy endowment funds to support B’nai Tikvah. “A strong Temple

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

Judy and Ron Bing today.

JCFC Temple B’nai Tikvah Building Funds • Bing Family Temple B’nai Tikvah Builders Fund • Donna Riback Temple B’nai Tikvah Building Fund

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Philanthropy | In Action Project Updates | Teen Philanthropy Camp 2016 With three years of Jewish teen philanthropy programming completed, the JCFC and the Calgary Jewish community is contributing to a North American movement. Brianna Holtzman, Director of the Jewish Teen Funders Network said, “In Jewish teen philanthropy programs, Jewish teens don’t just gather for the sake of gathering. They talk and they listen. They learn and they teach. They voice their opinions while respecting and considering those of their peers. They hold the tools of grant proposals and financial reports up to the words of Maimonides and values of a long-held Jewish commitment to bettering the world, and they consider what impact their giving will have. They ask the hard questions while guiding each other through sorting out the best answers. They enlist their families, friends, and teachers to join them on this journey.” The JCFC Teen Philanthropy Camp and Dorshei Tzedec Program would not be possible without the financial support of B’nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816. With their support we are now part of 133 registered programs across North America that help teens explore Jewish values, grow as Jewish leaders and engage in building Jewish communities.

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2016 participants in the JCFC Teen Philanthropy Camp hosted at Camp BB Riback.

In 2015 and 2016, JCFC hosted Teen Philanthropy Camp programs at Camp BB Riback. The programs engaged thirty grade ten students in an eight-hour mini philanthropy program. The students are introduced to the eight steps of philanthropy and the program ends with the selection of Alberta non profit organizations to receive one thousand dollars in grant funds. A group of eighteen campers in the “Leaders-in-Training” program participated this past July.

The majority of the participants have already been involved in service projects and charitable fundraising, either through b’nai mitzvah programs or school projects. In a group discussion the teens recounted the charitable activities they’ve been involved in this year. These projects involved dozens of volunteer hours and raised over $35,000 for a variety of causes. The weekend of grantmaking skill development enhances their ability to make sound decisions independently, as part of a group, or in a family setting and completes the circle of philanthropy for each participant.

2016 | ANNUAL REPORT


Philanthropy | In Action Project Updates | Dorshei Tzedec Teen Philanthropy Program In October 2015, the Dorshei Tzedec Teen Philanthropy Program was launched, in partnership with Beth Tzedec Congregation and Calgary B’nai Brith Lodge #816. Five enthusiastic teens engaged in the pilot project! Bi-monthly meetings were scheduled over a eight-month time period and the meetings including philanthropy workshops and real-life Torah lessons that are relatable to the eight steps of philanthropy. The program ended with $3,000 in grant distributions and a program presentation, by the teen participants, to community stakeholders and the agency representatives receiving grants. The 2016 Dorshei Tzedec grant allocations were: • $1,000 to Boys and Girls Clubs of Calgary “Avenue 15” Youth Homeless Shelter

• $1,000 to Action Against Hunger – Access to healthcare programs in Guatemala for women and children • $500 to Brown Bagging For Calgary’s Kids • $250 to Jewish Family Service Calgary (JFSC) – Emergency Food Pantry • $250 to Camp BB Riback – A bench for the new shaded games area Taking it one step further, the teen philanthropists asked if they could purchase the food for the JFSC food pantry rather than forwarding a cheque. The group coordinated a trip to Sobey’s in Bridlewood, negotiated an additional donation of $50 store credit from the manager, shopped for kosher food supplies, packed the food and helped stock shelves at JFSC. Marty Hornstein, Executive

In November 2015, teens developed a prize raffle that generated $1,000 for grants to distribute to UJA supported agencies.

Director of JFSC, said “While JFSC is most appreciative of the valued support, I think that the journey these teens have had over the eight months was one that they will never forget and has taught them values and principles that they can pass on to their peers. This group was thoughtful, considerate and brilliant in how they conducted themselves.” Hannah Silver, 2016 Dorshei Tzedec participant and grade eight student at Calgary Jewish Academy, said, “Dorshei Tzedec has been a great experience, which I feel has positively impacted both me, my family, and my community. I really enjoyed learning about philanthropy, and seeing and feeling the difference it makes.“ The 2017 Dorshei Tzedec program will begin in February 2017. If you know of a teen who wants to get involved in this program, please contact the Foundation office at (403) 640-2273.

(Left to Right) Mallory Panich – Business Development and Community Engagement Advisor, Boys & Girls Clubs of Calgary, Hannah Silver, Moriah Samchek, Kirkland Steinberg.

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

For more information regarding JCFC teen philanthropy programs, visit www.jcfc.ca/resources/ teenphilanthropy.

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Philanthropy | In Action Third Annual Philanthropy Seminar At this year’s JCFC Lunch ‘n Learn, wealth management professional Mike Vukets urged listeners to consider their philanthropy as an investment in family harmony as well as an opportunity to do good. Mike encouraged donors to build partnerships with non-profit organizations to ensure that the dollars they give will be used in

Guests at the philanthropy seminar

a professional manner. Program initiatives, he explained, should be accountable, measurable, and scalable. All donors, but particularly high net worth individuals and families, should approach their giving in a business-like manner. Mike also explained the benefits of working with a foundation like JCFC. “The process of working with a foundation forces you to move from random acts of kindness to strategic giving.” Donors who give strategically are able to take maximum advantage of the taxable benefits allowed by Canada Revenue and support projects that will have maximum impact. In Vukets’ experience, strategic discussions about charitable giving can inspire and engage multiple generations.

Mike Vukets speaking at the JCFC philanthropy seminar, May 2016

Philanthropists lead by example, Vukets concluded, urging donors to think big: “for your children and grandchildren and for your community”.

National Music Centre Study Legacy Gift Newly opened in summer 2016, Studio Bell is home to the National Music Centre, a national cultural organization devoted to amplifying a love, sharing, and understanding of music. The centre is home to NMC’s 2000+ piece collection of artifacts, instruments and music technology, 22,000 square feet of exhibitions devoted to telling the stories of music in Canada, a 300-seat performance space and recording studios. Calgary philanthropists Sam and Ida Switzer have made a wonderful commitment to supporting the NMC Study Collection, by way of an ongoing gift through the Sam and Ida Switzer Fund at JCFC.

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What began years ago as an annual donation to provide musical resources to children, has turned into something that goes well beyond the school children in Calgary. The Study Collection that Sam & Ida have committed to build and support will enhance learning opportunities for children, adults and educators, locally and nationally. The National Music Centre Study Collection celebrates Canada’s music story and inspires generations of music lovers through education programs, performances, artist incubation, and exhibitions. For details on visiting and supporting the National Music Centre, visit www.nmc.ca.

Study collection space at the NMC funded by Ida and Samuel Switzer.

2016 | ANNUAL REPORT


Philanthropy | In Action Project Updates | The Shapiro Community Enrichment Grants needed to find new donors and new projects in order to qualify. Last year, the Jewish Historical Society of Southern Alberta and Calgary Beth Tzedec Congregation Society each received a community enrichment grant.

Faigel and Len Shapiro

As long time philanthropists, Len and Faigel Shapiro like to think strategically. They are also aware that our community organizations often have smaller projects and unique opportunities in need of immediate support. With these goals in mind, the Shapiros created an enrichment grant program to support small capital projects and seed new programs in our community. The program had one additional goal: the Shapiros hoped to inspire new financial support for our local Jewish organizations. Grants were provided on a matching funds basis, to a maximum of $7,500. Organizations

JHSSA was in immediate need of financial resources to protect archival material from potential water damage and other physical issues. With the Shapiro Community Enrichment grant opportunity, the team at JHSSA was able to secure financial support from additional new donors. Archival material, whether paper, textile or object, needs a very specific environment for longterm storage and preservation. The grant was invested in special archival storage boxes, labels, folders, cartons, gloves and tags.

Cantor Russell Jayne (Calgary Beth Tzedec Congregation) holding a new Siddur

Calgary Beth Tzedec Congregation used the funds to assist in the purchase of the Siddur Lev Shalem. As synagogue President Maxine Fischbein explains, the new Siddur “has the power to engage a new generation of Conservative Jews. With full hearts, we are thankful for this support.” New archival storage box customized to hold a circumcision kit pre-1940

Yasher Koach to Len and Faigel for their creativity and generosity.

New Fund | Steven Blitz Charitable Trust The Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary (JCFC) is pleased to welcome the Steven Blitz Charitable Trust to the family of funds held at the Foundation. The Foundation’s assets will grow substantially over the next couple of years due in to the vision and generosity of the late Steven Blitzz’l.

The trust will support the Calgary Jewish Community Centre, Jewish Family Service Calgary and the Calgary Beth Tzedec Congregation Society with annual grants to support programs and operations for the next thirty-six years. Along with the other one hundred and fifteen funds, the

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF CALGARY

donor’s gift is pooled with the Foundation’s assets and invested through careful stewardship to generate income to support these worthy beneficiaries. The JCFC is honoured to be the steward of this legacy gift that will positively impact the Calgary Jewish community for decades.

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Legacy

Giving Calculator The Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary has created an easy-to-use tool that helps individuals, couples and families realize their potential for philanthropic legacies.

Available online

jcfc.ca/legacycalculator

Your vision – our mission. Inspiring Philanthropy for more than 25 years.


Our Organization | Staff, Board and Committees OFFICERS

INVESTMENT COMMITTEE

PAST CHAIRS

Chair

Eric Switzer (Chair) Jordan Balaban Daniel Blitt Warren Book Franklin Eldridge Adam Hoffman Corey Mitchell Martin Molyneaux Stuart Myron Richard Nagan Mark Shilling Stacey Steinberg Paul Wheaton Dr. Bettina Liverant Zeisler Leib Zeisler

1990-1995 Gert Cohos

Stuart Myron

Treasurer Mark Shilling Secretary Bernie Switzer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gerry Barron Tamara Cohos Jackie Halpern Nelson Halpern Stuart Libin Joel Lipkind Eric Switzer Dr. Bettina Liverant Zeisler

AUDIT COMMITTEE Nelson Halpern Mark Shilling Eric Switzer

1995-1998 Donna Riback 1998-2011 Robert Kalef 1998-2012 Sam Switzer 2012-2015 Dr. Bettina Liverant Zeisler

FOUNDATION MANAGER Wendy Kennelly

CONSULTING ACCOUNTANT Warren Book

TRIBUTE CARD COORDINATOR Terry Hornstein

GRANTS AND ALLOCATIONS COMMITTEE Stuart Libin (Chair) Milton Bogoch Reva Faber Eva Hoffman Marilyn Libin Marilyn Samuels

Sponsors | Friends of the Foundation


We invite you to join us. You can establish a fund to remember a loved one, to mark an anniversary, a wedding, a bar/bat mitzvah or birthday, or to ensure a strong community for future generations. The Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary offers variety and flexibility to create the right fund for you. Your vision is our mission.

1607 - 90 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2V 4V7 · phone: 403-640-2273 · email: mail@jcfc.ca · www.jcfc.ca


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2016 Annual Report - Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary by Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary - Issuu