By Stephanie Smartschan
JFLV Director of Marketing

Heroes will unite on Jan. 28 to raise money for the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley’s Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs.

Four teams will go head to head to see who can secure the most pledges, increases and conversions. The winning team will get to allocate $1,000 to the campaign beneficiary of their choice.

“All of the teams are, of course, working together for the good of the community,” said Aaron Gorodzinsky, director of outreach and community relations for the Federation. “But we hope that the competition will inspire our volunteers even more.”

Around 200 volunteers are expected to take part in Super Sunday, which also includes a community mitzvah project in partnership with Jewish Family Service. Calls will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the JCC auditorium. From 12 to 4 p.m., volunteers will also be working in the JCC kitchen to prepare and deliver kosher meals for older adults.

All volunteers will receive a free superhero-themed team T-shirt and breakfast and dinner will be provided.

Elected officials are expected to attend, along with one of the IronPigs mascots.

Callers this year will have the opportunity to give donors a chance to double their dollars – thanks to the generosity of Lewis and Roberta Gaines, all new gifts and increases will be matched.

Brian and Emily Ford will again co-chair the event and also act as mentors for the young leaders from Israel Next Dor, who will be helping to coordinate and serve as team captains.

“It’s exciting to see a new crop of leaders take ownership of this event,” Brian Ford said. “It’s a great way to get involved and give back to the community.”

PJ Library and PJ Our Way will also be participating in this year’s mitzvah project at a 10:30 a.m. program in the JCC auxiliary auditorium. Older children will make cookies for the older adult food packages while younger children will decorate bags for the cookies. There will also be a PJ Library story and the first 50 children will get a free superhero T-shirt.

Sign up now to volunteer and choose your superhero team!