Record-Breaking Donation Strengthens The Jewish Federation's Mission of Ensuring The Jewish Future

LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles announces the establishment of The Geri & Richard Brawerman Leadership Institute. A multi-million dollar gift from community leader Geri Brawerman on behalf of herself and her late husband Richard – the largest gift in the history of The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles – will make it possible for the Federation to develop and sustain a talent pool of engaged Jewish young leaders in perpetuity. A select group of high school seniors will be chosen as Brawerman Fellows and each receive a $10,000 annual college scholarship.

"It is so meaningful to me personally that Geri Brawerman, such a dear and special friend of my parents and myself, has continued to support our Federation in such a generous fashion," said Richard V. Sandler, Chairman of The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles.

"Geri Brawerman is an extraordinarily generous and thoughtful philanthropist.  We worked in partnership with Geri for over a year to discuss her vision for this landmark gift and together we created an initiative that will impact our Jewish community for generations. This gift speaks directly to Today's Federation.  We are focused on building stronger, deeper relationships with our donors and in ensuring the Jewish future," said Jay Sanderson, President & CEO, The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles.

According to Geri Brawerman, "If Richard were here, he would be thrilled to know that his legacy now includes a program that builds leadership and ensures the Jewish future by both supporting the educational goals of Jewish high school students and giving them the experiences and skills they'll draw upon as future stewards of Jewish Los Angeles. It is my dream that the students we empower today will lead the community tomorrow."

Brawerman Fellows will be chosen based upon demonstrating academic strength, financial need and a commitment to leadership, community service and Jewish engagement. They will participate in a program that builds leadership skills and deepens their connection to Jewish life.

The application deadline for this year's Brawerman Fellowships is May 11, 2012. To learn more, go to: www.JewishLA.org/Brawerman.

Based on Jewish values, The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles convenes and leads the community and leverages its resources to assure the continuity of the Jewish people, support a secure State of Israel, care for Jews in need here and abroad, and mobilize on issues of concern to the local community, all with our local, national, and international partners. For more information, visit www.JewishLA.org.

SOURCE The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles