Campaign chairs Sheryl and Jon Kimerling after signing a poster to mark the successful conclusion of the 2009 BJF campaign.

One of the most challenging -- and most rewarding -- fundraising campaigns in Birmingham Jewish Federation history came to an end on May 15th. Amidst a difficult and serious economic downtown, which began last fall at the start of the campaign, the 2009 BJF Campaign attained its goal of $2,400,000.

"While many other Federations are struggling, as well as other non-profits, we can be proud that we have attained our goal," said Sheryl Kimerling, who chaired the 2009 campaign along with her husband, Jon.

"We are appreciative that we had the opportunity to chair both this year''s and last year''s campaign," added Sheryl. "It has been a privilege and has brought us great fulfillment."

"We are grateful to everyone who contributed, at every level. This truly was a ''team effort'' and everyone''s support was much appreciated," added Jon.

FINISHING DATE EXTENDED

At the start, campaign leaders had hoped to finish by Feb. 28. Due to the economic situation, the slowdown in pledges and the BJF''s need in January to focus on Israel''s war with Hamas, the finishing date was extended to May 15.

As Passover was about to begin, a family provided an additional $50,000 to match new gifts, increases and restored reductions which resulted in a remarkable surge. More than 90 additional pledges were received over a three-week period; these included a number of inspiring increases from people who had already increased at the start of the campaign.

Even as the campaign was closing, new pledges continued coming in. One couple, who had not given for several years, pledged $500. A local hair stylist, who has Jewish clients and who reads Update, sent a check for $100 to help us attain our goal.

A check of $250 came from an Update reader who lives in a small Alabama town, along with a note that said, "Being avid Update readers, we have followed -- and long admired -- what y''all do at the Birmingham Jewish Federation. We want to contribute too."

LEADERS LED

"We thank Sheryl and Jon for their outstanding leadership," said BJF President Amy Saag, reflecting on the campaign''s success. "Our ''leaders led'' and that, more than any other factor, helped us attain success."

At a recent BJF board meeting, Amy invited Sheryl and Jon to sign their campaign poster. This "ceremonial signing" has become a tradition when the campaign attains its goal. The posters are framed and hung permanently at the BJF.

Planning already has begun for the 2010 campaign. Karen and Joel Piassick will succeed the Kimerlings as campaign chairs. "Sheryl and Jon will be a hard act to follow. However, we are excited, ready to begin and want to build on the successes of the past two years," said the Piassicks.

The BJF Campaign raises money to fund 29 agencies and programs which benefit people in Birmingham, nationally, in Israel and throughout the world. The BJF extends its appreciation to all who worked in this year''s campaign and to all who made donations this year to help us attain our goal.