Bonds, Federation and Foundation Come Together in Birmingham

A partnership among Israel Bonds, the Birmingham Jewish Federation and the Birmingham Jewish Foundation will result in a unique community event on Dec. 12 at Temple Beth-El.

Instead of the annual Bonds dinner and a separate event for the Federation and Foundation, the agencies will coordinate for what is being called “the event of events.”

The entire Jewish community, along with friends of the community, is invited to the 4 p.m. event, which will be highlighted by a tribute to Carol and Jimmy Filler.

Jimmy Filler is currently president of the Federation and chair of Our Next 100 Years, a historic Jewish community initiative that will be highlighted at the event. Filler is also completing his 36th year — double chai — as the local chair of Israel Bonds.

Filler has assumed numerous leadership roles in the community in his decades of service, including many behind the scenes. Carol Filler explained, “We’ve been blessed and we have a passion for making life better for others.”

In addition to honoring the Fillers, the Federation and Foundation will present awards to some outstanding community members.

Dan Weinrib will receive the Federation’s Joanie Plous Bayer Young Leadership Award, Amy Saag will receive the Federation’s Susan J. Goldberg Distinguished Volunteer Award, and Ruth and Marvin Engel will receive the Foundation’s N.E. Miles Lifetime Achievement Award.

Federation Executive Director Richard Friedman and Foundation Executive Director Sally Friedman are chairing the event.

“This will be a wonderful occasion and an opportunity to honor six wonderful people — Jimmy, Carol, Dan, Amy, Ruth and Marvin,” said Sally Friedman.

“It also will be an opportunity to show your support for Israel, celebrate our unique and wonderful  community and come together in an atmosphere of solidarity at this important time in Jewish history,” said Richard Friedman.

A light supper will follow the program and will provide attendees with the opportunity to personally congratulate all of the honorees.

The entire Jewish community and friends of Israel and the community are invited. There is no charge for the event, which is being underwritten by the Federation, the Foundation and individual donors.

For security reasons, reservations are required for admittance. Reservations must be made by Dec. 1; those who have not made reservations can not be admitted. To respond, call Lauren Pyle Klinner at the Federation, (205) 803-1517 or email Laurenp (at) bjf.org.