Where the money is: Federation takes its philanthropic mission on the resort road

SAG HARBOR, N.Y.  —  Unlike the Palm Beach social scene, philanthropy has no off-season. The fundraising galas and luncheons may have stopped, but in the community, need remains.

So the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County took its cue from Willie Sutton and went "where the money is. "

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On Aug. 10, the money was in Sag Harbor, where Susan and Richard Friedman hosted the federation's "Evening In The Hamptons" at the Bridge Golf Club.

In addition to cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and chatter about the unrelenting heat  — "I might as well be back in Palm Beach, where at least everywhere is air-conditioned" — guests celebrated the growth of the federation’s annual campaign to $19.4 million. The growth reflects the federation's commitment to supporting diverse and growing needs in the community.

Also announced was the growth of the federation's Jewish Palm Beach Leadership Circle, which recognizes annual donors of $50,000 or more. Membership in the circle surged nearly 50% in 2023.

The night's highlight was the yet-to-be-public news of the newly established Palm Beach Center to Combat Antisemitism and Hatred, which is co-chaired by Richard Friedman and Steven Tananbaum.

The center is focused on fighting antisemitism through advocacy, leadership, security and educational outreach.

A formal announcement will be made in the fall.

The event was one of the federation’s several summer visits in the Northeast to thank supporters and provide a preview of the 2023-24 season. More than 80 people attended.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Jewish Federation takes philanthropic mission on the resort road