2025 CJN June/July | Page 5

Center for Jewish Education Book Club Schedule
The Charlotte Jewish News- June / July 2025- Page 5
Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte

Federation Announces Retirement of Susan Stafford

FEDERATION IMPACT: BENEFICIARY AGENCY SPOTLIGHT CAMP MINDY

As a means of bettering our greater Charlotte Jewish community, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte allocates donation funds to local Jewish organizations who embody Jewish values and overall better our community. In recognition of their work, we at Federation wish to bring attention to these organizations and the good that they do.
By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist
It is with deep appreciation and warm wishes that we at Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte announce the retirement of Susan Stafford, who has been an integral part of Federation for the past 25 years.
Susan began her journey at Shalom Park in 1993, joining Levine JCC’ s bookkeeping department. From the very beginning, her attention to detail, strong work ethic, and genuine kindness made her a trusted member of the team.
In 2000, Federation was fortunate to welcome Susan as campaign assistant. For 25 years, she has been the quiet force behind much of Federation’ s success, offering steadfast support to the Annual Campaign and ensuring that the critical behind-thescenes work was handled with care, precision, and grace.
With Susan’ s help, Federation’ s Annual Campaign has grown from $ 2.1 million in 2000 to $ 6.3 million, raised in 2024. As Federation has evolved, Susan has remained a constant— guiding staff, leaders, and volunteers through decades of change with unwavering dedication.
Sam Bernstein, JFGC chief development and marketing officer, says,“ Susan has been a tremendous asset to me in my
Susan Stafford
Federation work as both a volunteer and professional. Her retirement marks the end of an era for Federation, and a well-deserved new chapter for her.”
Throughout her tenure, Susan’ s contributions extended far beyond her job description. She brought to the office not just her talents and expertise but also her warmth, humor, and deep sense of community. Always ready with a smile, a listening ear, or a witty remark, Susan became more than a colleague, she became a friend and confidant to many.
While Susan will be deeply missed at Federation, Susan’ s quiet leadership and unwavering commitment leave an indelible mark on our community. We thank her, and celebrate her enduring legacy with heartfelt gratitude.
Since 2001, the Mindy Ellen Levine Day Camp, affectionately known as Camp Mindy, has offered Charlotte-area children more than just a place to spend the summer. Serving campers from kindergarten through fifth grade, it’ s a place where kids try new things, make new friends, and gain confidence in a nurturing, inclusive environment.
Camp Mindy is one of many local programs supported by Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’ s Annual Campaign. By investing in experiences that build identity and connection from a young age, Federation helps ensure the next generation is grounded in Jewish values and community.
“ Being part of Camp Mindy
since it opened has shown us what it truly means to build community,” said Mark Di- Donato, senior director of programming, and Mitch Ormand, director of youth and family.“ With Federation’ s support, we’ ve seen
generation after generation of campers grow and thrive. This summer marks 25 years, and we’ re excited for what’ s still ahead.”
The impact of Camp Mindy lasts well beyond the school break. Campers carry with them memories, friendships, and a strong sense of belonging— cornerstones of a vibrant Jewish future. Federation is proud to help make that possible, one summer at a time.
25 th ANNIVERSARY
LEVINE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

Malak Jewelers

Since 1980
Center for Jewish Education Book Club Schedule
The CJE Book Club meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:30 am in Room A110 at Shalom Park. All books are available at the Levine-Sklut Judaic Library at the Center for Jewish Education.
Jun. 11 The Escape Artist, Jonathan Freedland Jul. 9 Long Island Compromise, Taffy Brodesser-Akner Aug. 13 Kantika, Elizabeth Graver Sept. 10 The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern, Lynda Cohen Loigman Oct. 29 The Rest of Our Lives, Judy Goldman Nov. 12 Small World: A Novel, Laura Zigman Dec. 10 Like Mother, Like Mother, Susan Rieger
Contact sueb. littauer @ jewishcharlotte. org for questions
AT THE ARBORETUM | 704-341-1188 | MALAKJEWELERS. COM