Hillel School of Tampa seeks $150,000 to match Chernin challenge offer

Marshall and Ida Raye Chernin urge community support for the match campaign. The Hillel School of Tampa, along with the Jewish Federation of Tampa and Marshall and Ida Raye Chernin, has launched a $150,000 Community Matching Grant Campaign with the Chernins offering a dollar-for-dollar match up to $150,000.

The Chernin Commitment to Excellence in Education Community Match Grant Campaign is intended is ensure the school remain vibrant and open to all who want a Jewish education for their children. A specific goal is to raise additional scholarship money so the down economy does not prevent any child from attending Hillel.

The school announced the match campaign at its annual gala on March 7, which honored the Chernins for their past support, including a $100,000 gift two years ago.

Tampa Jewish Federation Chief Executive Officer Gary Gould said the Hillel School was critical to the future of the Jewish community.

Marshall and Ida Raye Chernin “Who are the next wave of Jewish leaders? Many of them will be graduates of Jewish day schools,” Gould said. “Scholarship money is critical. We need your help. The Hillel School is a very special place,” he said.

Gould said the Chernins would match donations on a dollar for dollar basis up to $200,000, but Marshall Chernin raised the stakes when he spoke.

“I found out when I give tzedakah, I get about a 300 percent return. In fact, I feel so warmly about it, I’ll put another $50,000 on top (of the $100,000),” Chernin said.

“We’ve got to make this school bigger and better and more powerful than it already is. We can’t do it by ourselves.

“Reach deep into your pockets. You’re making an investment in the children’s future, in our future, in Israel’s future and in America’s future. Please help the Hillel School. It’s the best investment in town,” Chernin said.

His wife, Ida Raye Chernin, added: “Children are our most precious treasure. Teach them.”

Four of the Chernin’s seven grandchildren attend the Hillel School. About 180 students in kindergarten through eighth grade are currently enrolled at the school.

At press time, $50,000 had already been pledged.

“Hillel is more than just a school. We are a community that instills values. We know our school is excellent and we’re proud of it,” Head of School Amy Wasser said.

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For more information about the Chernin Commitment to Excellence in Eduction Community Match Grant Campaign, see Page 3.