A Call for Support

Few people look forward to being asked for money. But Super Sunday, the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles’ largest single day of fund raising each the year, is the exception.

“It’s the one time of the year when people say, ‘I was waiting for your phone call,'” says David Eshaghpour, community campaign director for the Federation and Super Sunday director.

Super Sunday, which will take place at four locations scattered across Los Angeles, reaches more than 50,000 people through phone calls, mailers and personal solicitations, and raises about one-tenth of the annual total contributions to the Federation’s United Jewish Fund. Last year, $4.45 million was added to UJF coffers. This year’s goal is to increase that figure to $5 million.

The money goes to benefit the Federation’s 17 beneficiary agencies, which combat hunger, disease, disabilities, family violence, alcohol and drug addiction in Los Angeles, and to help Jews in Israel and 58 countries.

Many staff and lay leaders of the UJF’s beneficiary agencies show up to make phone calls on Super Sunday, along with scores of families, teens, young singles and couples, and seniors. There are specially equipped phones for the hearing impaired.

“Super Sunday brings together generations working for a common cause,” says David Aaronson, who is chairing Super Sunday for the second year in a row.

For parents of small children, free baby-sitting is available. Youngsters also can take part in Mitzvathon, a day of making art projects and participating in other activities that help those in need; the children will also learn more about their Jewish heritage.

At the “megasite,” the Westside Jewish Community Center, costumed Power Ranger characters from the Fox-TV Network will show up to amuse the kids.

To volunteer or to contribute, contact one of the following locations: Westside JCC, 5870 W. Olympic Blvd., (323) 761-8319; Valley Alliance Milken Jewish Community Campus, 22622 Vanowen St., West Hills, (818) 464-3200; South Bay Council Jewish Community Building, 22410 Palos Verdes Blvd., Torrance, (310) 540-2631; Jewish Federation West Los Angeles Office, 1950 Sawtelle Blvd., (310) 689-3600.