Jewish Federation of St. Louis’ Board of Directors will distribute $8,560,538 to agencies and programs for 2015–16, the same amount that was allocated for 2014–15. The allocations include $3.46 million in unrestricted allocations to local agencies, the same amount as last year, and $2.44 million in strategic program grants that align with Federation’s local priorities.

 “From the 2014 St. Louis Jewish Community Study, we know many members of our community, locally and globally, depend on us for support,” said Andrew Rehfeld, Jewish Federation of St. Louis president and CEO. “We are excited to be working with the Community Development Commission, chaired by Les Sterman, to further analyze the study data, evaluate our 2010 strategic plan and determine how we may reprioritize our goals for 2015 and beyond.”

 In addition to programs funded in previous years, a partial list of this year’s first-time strategic program grants includes:

· Shoresh Institution – The Shoresh Institution informs Israel’s leading policymakers and the general public through briefings and accessible publications on the source, nature and scope of core issues facing the country, providing policy options that ensure and improve the well-being of all segments of Israeli society.

· B’Yachad STL – Shabbat Experience- This program is a collaborative effort of Shaare Emeth and Central Reform Congregation designed to engage young adults from a range of Jewish backgrounds to welcome Shabbat together.  The program includes an interactive, participatory Shabbat service and communal Shabbat dinner. B’Yachad meets in creative venues throughout St. Louis that are popular with young adults.

· Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) – Center for Young Adults in Lod – The Center for Young Adults opened in 2014, with the goal of persuading natives of Lod to remain in the city and attracting gifted professionals from elsewhere to make Lod their home.  The grant will focus on integrating new immigrants into Lod, thereby enriching community life.  The centerpiece will be a two-year leadership program to train 20 Russian-speaking immigrants to become community activists.