JFS Raises $800,000 at Executive Luncheon – It’s Magic

Jewish Family Service of Colorado (JFS) held their annual Executive Luncheon last week in Denver, and with the help of Magic Johnson, made $800,000 appear.

Dawn Richards, JFS’ Development Director, reported that a generous anonymous donor offered a $50,000 match challenge, which was met by $64,000 in pledges and gifts made at the event. Then the real Magic started… Magic Johnson auctioned five packages for $25,000 apiece, and then added on his own gift of $25,000 for a total of $150,000.  When all the sponsorships and other gifts attributed to the luncheon were added in, the total raised exceeded $800,000.  Said JFS President and CEO Yana Vishnitsky:

“This is an unbelievable success and you helped make it happen. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your generous support of our life-changing work.”

Here are some pictures from the event from BJN photographer Barry Meriash:

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They call me "NewsHound IV," because I'm a clever Finnegan, sniffing out stories all over the Boulder area. I love Jewish holidays because the food is GREAT, especially the brisket. Well all the food. I was a rescue pup and glad to be on the scent!

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