By Sharon Steinbaum-Open Central Galilee Regional Manager

Charity, anonymous donations and helping one's fellow man, are but a few of Judaism's cornerstones. They remind us constantly that we must always remember the weak, poor and needy.

The foundations of this approach are first found in the Torah, in the first set of Laws given to the People of Israel in the desert. The biblical verses repeatedly stress the importance of aiding the needy in our society, giving attention to the poor, the stranger, the widow and orphan as well as field animals and pets.

Simon the Just said: "Upon three things the world exists: Torah, Prayer and upon the practice of charity." (Pirke Avot 1.2) He also placed the practice of charity as the third pillar on which civilization rests. This was the spirit that placed helping the weak at the foundation of our society, following us throughout the generations.

In our partnership, I am constantly reminded, each time with renewed excitement that this act of giving is what thrusts and motivates our partnership forward, for ten years now.

This act of giving is what has served as the true basis of our partnership and expressed on many levels. This begins with the economic aspect - the generous giving on the part of our Michigan partners towards the region, & includes the giving of all those involved in Partnership 2000 on both sides of the ocean. Many people are constantly giving ideas, initiatives, time and energy for the implementation of the various programs, expanding the partnership's circle of participants and constantly improving existing programs.

I would like to thank all those involved in this important act, of true giving, each in his own field, for the sake of strengthening the relationships between two parts of the Jewish People- in Israel & in Michigan .

These personal and professional relations make a significant contribution to both communities in the improvement of the quality of life, enhanced Jewish Identity and a mutual sense of belonging.

Nisan 5764 - March 2004