Page 18 - Jewish News_December-2020

18A December 2020 FEDERATION NEWS

Volunteer Spotlight

Peter Wells: Personifying the mission

of the Jewish Federation

By Sandy Chase
eter Wells’ Jewish communal Peter also assisted with hosting Jeremy points out that it’s difficult inaugural Israeli “Different Together”
executive career, bolstered by Amnon Weinstein’s (renowned vio- to read through applications and weigh exhibit. Proudly, he says, “Here was an
Phis compassion, has established lin maker/restorer) Violins of Hope how much funding can be granted opportunity to support Israelis. I even
the foundation on which he commits to program, comprising cultural and ed- when the needs of so many are great. sponsored an EOD poster displayed in
The Jewish Federation of Sarasota- ucational events with a powerful Holo- “Learning from Peter has been invalu- Jaffa Harbor.”
Manatee. caust message. able, making me a better professional.” A recent major role for Peter has
More significantly, Peter has Peter responds, “Jeremy’s prepa- been his work on the Board of Direc-
helped develop a cadre of dedicated ration of the data moves the process tors and Executive Committee, where
staff and volunteers who strive to build seamlessly, enabling Federation to Federation has benefited from his ex-
a strong Jewish community and better award money to area congregations.” pertise as Associate Director and Ex-
life for Jews. Supporting Israel is paramount to ecutive Vice President of the Greater
Federation CEO Howard Tevlow- Peter, as evidenced by his early role on Dayton Federation (1973-2005). At-
itz is indebted to his mentor, saying, the steering committee for two com- tributing Federation success to its lead-
“During my early executive days, I munity cultural outreach programs to ership, Peter says, “I’m thrilled to share
relied on Peter’s unwavering support, Kiryat Yam, Israel, a Federation sister my strategic planning, governance and
extensive executive experience and city improved by Betty Schoenbaum’s fundraising experience.”
wealth of knowledge.” philanthropy. Patti Wertheimer, past board pres-
For close to 10 years, the Federa- Kate Alexander, Associate Direc- ident, says, “Peter brings a lifetime of
tion has benefited from Peter’s relent- tor at-large at Florida Studio Theatre experience as a Jewish communal pro-
less dedication, strengthening Jewish (FST), fondly recalls Federation’s part- fessional. His contributions of wisdom
life and identity in our community, Peter and Joan Wells nership, saying, “Kiryat Yam was a remain relevant.”
providing for Jewish people in need In addition, with a passion for time in the life of theatre where small The mission of the Jewish Federa-
and promoting support for Israel – cor- strategic planning, Peter played an im- miracles occur. In an immigrant city, tion system is in Peter’s DNA.
nerstones of the Federation mission. portant role on committees that laid bright, loving, challenged children wrote Even before his successful Ohio
No sooner had Peter and his wife the groundwork for campus develop- plays about dancers – some handicapped career, Peter focused on building a
Joan – his support and inspiration – ment and the 2019 Jewish Community – one another and the Palestinians.” strong Jewish identity, especially
finished unpacking from Dayton, Ohio, Study. Kate is grateful that Peter helped amongst teens by:
he contacted Howard to volunteer at Peter chairs the Religious School create “the opportunity for Kiryat Yam ‹ Working as a NFTY (North Amer-
the Federation. Scholarships Committee, reviewing and FST to affect each other forever.” ican Federation for Temple Youth)
Reminiscing, Peter talks about his application data to determine which Peter left his mark on another group advisor in New York and
positive experiences as Shapiro Teen children are eligible for need-based Federation-sponsored program with BBYO regional director
Engagement Program (STEP) commit- funding to attend religious school at Embracing Our Differences (EOD), Paramount to Peter is supporting
tee member. “It was essential that we local synagogues. where several community teens from people in need, where he:
design relevant programs to engage Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Inno- EOD co-existence clubs attended the continued on next page
teenagers, while developing leaders,” vation & Volunteer Engagement, is
says Peter. “Ensuring that our future privileged to work with Peter, saying,
generation identifies with Judaism and “He considers each applicant thor-
continues strengthening Jewish life oughly and impartially, reinforced by
here and supporting Israel is critical.” his caring.”
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More than $41,374 was granted by 2020’s
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organizations in Israel benefiting
women and children.

Here’s “to Life” on the Gulf Coast
Debbie Yonker, Chair
Committed to the Jewish Community for over 20 years, RSVP by Friday, December 11, 2020
Stacy is passionate about real estate and strives
to build ever-lasting relationships based on exceptional service, to Brieana Duckett-Graves at 941.552.6305
or bdgraves@jfedsrq.org
uncompromising values and a strong work ethic. QUESTIONS? Contact Jeremy Lisitza
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