Combined Jewish Philanthropies, Jewish Federation of the North Shore to Merge

Combined organization will create a more vibrant, unified Jewish community across Greater Boston 

BOSTON – June 3, 2013 – Today, the Boards of Directors of Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP), Boston’s Jewish Federation, and the Jewish Federation of the North Shore (JFNS) proudly announce their merger, which recently was approved by JFNS members. The merger will take effect July 1 and the combined organization will be called Combined Jewish Philanthropies. 

In addition to the geographic proximity of the two federations, CJP and JFNS share a strong commitment to meeting the needs of Jewish people in Massachusetts, in Israel and overseas. By consolidating and sharing resources, such as programming and fundraising, the new, more robust federation will be better positioned to serve the Jewish community as a whole.  

“We are very excited about our future as part of CJP,” said Shep Remis, a life member of the JFNS Board of Trustees and chair of the merger task force. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the Jewish community on the North Shore, who will continue to enjoy local programming, while benefiting from the expanded resources and services that a combined organization can provide.”

CJP is committed to maintaining the identity of the North Shore community, while promoting a welcoming and inclusive Greater Boston Jewish federation for everyone. CJP, which will maintain the JFNS office on the North Shore, will continue to support the Jewish programming that is already in place in the area, and North Shore residents will be invited and encouraged to participate in events and activities throughout Greater Boston.

“This merger will harness the energy and spirit of two organizations which help people in need locally and around the globe, and will bring them together as one stronger whole,” said CJP President Barry Shrage. “As we strive to create an ever-more-vibrant Jewish community in Greater Boston, we look forward to the North Shore bringing its own identity and values to benefit our combined federation.”

Kimberlee Schumacher, who has served as interim executive director of JFNS, will continue to lead the transition effort as CJP’s Senior Director of Strategy and Integration for the North Shore. Also, a North Shore Advisory Committee (NSAC) has been formed and will make recommendations on allocations, volunteer engagement and community priorities over the next two years. Amanda Clayman is serving as chair of NSAC, and Shep Remis is serving as honorary chair.

Two North Shore representatives will be appointed to the CJP Board of Directors, and two additional North Shore representatives will be invited to serve as Board Observers for three years. North Shore representatives also will be integrated into CJP’s standing committees and commissions.   

JFNS set a $1.3 million goal for their current campaign (ending in June) so that it can continue to support much-needed services and programs for the North Shore community and its partners overseas. Fiscal year 2014 allocations will be determined by the JFNS allocations committee this month.

About CJP 

CJP, Greater Boston’s Jewish Federation, brings together the people, partners and resources to fulfill the most important needs and aspirations of our community.  Rooted in compassion and justice and driven by innovation, we care for the vulnerable, forge strong connections with Israel and above all, inspire the next generation to embrace Jewish life and learning. For more information please visit www.cjp.org.