Strategic Conversations

FAQ’s

What is Strategic Conversations?

The Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford has engaged members of the Jewish community in a process of strategic thinking that will ultimately develop a new business model for Jewish Federation - redesign approaches for raising dollars; study and determine best strategies for allocating dollars to benefit and impact the community; and invigorate donor involvement and investment.

Why was the project started?

Federation last completed a strategic plan in 1996.  Since that time, our Jewish community has undergone significant change. We see the need to focus our process, channel ideas and resources and create new opportunities for the future of our community. 

Before World War II, the predominant thinking was that collective action was the best way to address the community’s needs. Post World War II, the thinking is quite the opposite – that the individual can and will effect change.  How can our communal fundraising approaches harvest new energy?  How can we energize our loyal supporters while attracting a new generation and perhaps add another dimension to our organizational culture?

How can Strategic Conversations impact me and my family?

Federation is in the business of making things possible.  We raise money to help our agencies operate, to help and strengthen people in our community, overseas and in Israel. We are in the unique position of bringing the community together to promote the good and to address the gaps.

Perhaps you are celebrating a special time or appreciate the care of a teacher or care taker or counselor.  Perhaps you are in need today, or perhaps a family member or a friend will be in need tomorrow.  You are part of a greater community. 

Federation is trying to do a better job at what we do.  We welcome your support / help.

What has been going on?

In January 2005, Federation began to chart its course to develop a strategic vision process designed to answer two questions: What role should Federation play in the community and;  What should Federation’s priorities be over the next three to five years to fulfill that role?

In April, 2005 we held a community-wide retreat.  Over summer 2005 a Planning Committee took recommendations from the retreat and created a vision and values to articulate the soul of our Federation, and the committee began to shape a plan.

Five priority areas have been identified:   Outreach and Engagement, Leadership Development, Long Range Community Planning, Financial Resource Development and Marketing.  Committees for each of the initiatives have developed plans and activities have begun. 

We are identifying candidates for CLI: Community Leadership Initiative, and beginning to coordinate new leadership courses.  Awareness programs focusing on politics and religion and Israel will take place in venues East of the River and are currently happening in the Farmington Valley.  We will welcome newcomers, embrace those who are loyal and thank everyone for his/her gift to enable our community to move ahead.

Want to know more? Contact Cathrine Fischer Schwartz, Executive Director, cschwartz@jewishhartford.org, 860-232-4483.