We’re bringing a successful 2017 Annual Campaign to a close, but are mounting one last push to close the last round of gifts. Sunday, February 5, Memphis Jewish Foundation staff and volunteers will be calling past and prospective donors in the annual heroic effort known as Super Sunday.
To those in the community who have already made your gifts, thank you. Any gift is an act of heroism, changing lives here at home, and around the world. To those who are interested in giving but haven’t found the right opportunity, this is your chance to answer the call and become a hero.
Ahead of the February 5 Super Sunday call-a-thon, JCPConnect talked with Molly Wexler, who co-chairs JCP’s Financial Resource Development committee. Molly was a member of the staff for a number of years and has been a key driver of success in past Super Sunday pledge drives. Around here, she’s referred to a a guru of sorts, but to her, it’s as simple as doing her part.
If you want to make your pledge today, don’t wait for the Super Sunday call. Donate now! If you want to volunteer to be part of the calls, email Courtney Shemper to sign up: cshemper@jcpmemphis.org.
What makes Super Sunday fun, from the perspective of volunteers and staff?
It’s amazing to see the community come together and rally around something we all agree upon – the sustainability and vitality of our Jewish community.
Describe how you think Super Sunday is a perfect way to bring the Campaign to a close?
The community campaign can seem very individualized at times. This is a great way to close the campaign and reach out to everyone and involve everyone. All are welcome. What better way is there to end a large scale community effort?
Does a donor need millions of dollars to be an important part of Memphis philanthropy?
Absolutely not! Every single dollar makes a difference and every gift is valued as much as any other. An $18 gift from someone may mean more to that family than a $1,000 gift from someone else. Everyone should feel proud to contribute at whatever level they can.
What will the call experience be like for donors?
Friendly and informative.
How long does each call take?
It depends on if the person being called has questions or wants detailed information. I’ve seen calls that last 1 minute and calls that last 30.
Will donors be asked to pay then, or can they pledge?
We are only asking for pledges, but are happy to take payment if the donor prefers. All pledges need not be paid until December of 2017. Every person who makes a pledge will receive a thank you letter that will explain payment options.
Why the decision to use texting as a method to reach donors this year?
We have to ride with the times. Many community members respond better to texts than phone calls. It’s an experiment and I am curious to see how it works out.