Leading philanthropists in the New York Jewish community pledged $44 million to UJA-Federation of New York's 2012 Annual Campaign inaugural, setting a new record. "In a time of great economic uncertainty, such loyalty and generosity is astonishing and inspiring," said Jerry W. Levin, president of UJA-Federation. "This is a terrific start for this year's annual campaign." Levin thanked donors for "stepping up when our community needs you most." For the last 25 years, the campaign launch event has brought together important leaders who care deeply about the issues and challenges facing the Jewish people in New York, in Israel, and around the world. In that quarter-century, the inaugural has raised nearly $719.4 million, a sum that has been the cornerstone of UJA-Federation's work to address urgent economic, educational, and community issues, as well as respond to humanitarian crises.
