By Richard Friedman, Executive Director

Talk about being grateful! I had such a nice feeling when The Birmingham Jewish Federation board recently renewed my contract.

Yes, it was a generous package and a nice vote of confidence. These were appreciated for sure, but what made me really feel great were the discussions I had with our Personnel Committee, Executive Committee and Board during the process.

The Personnel Committee was made up of volunteers Randi Landy, who chaired the committee, and Jimmy Filler, Richard Pizitz Jr., Lisa Engel, Drew Weil, Melba Epsman and Amy Saag. They put a lot of time into the process, especially Randi, Richard and Drew, and did a great job.

I've had a very interesting career for which I am deeply grateful. I feel blessed everyday in so many ways. I'm lucky to have what I think is the best job in the world and I can't wait to get started each morning. Many people don't feel that way about what they do; to feel that way -- after 30 years -- is a gift that's been given to me by The Birmingham Jewish Federation.

For me, my conversation with our Executive Committee members was particularly memorable. I talked honestly about what The BJF expects of them -- for them to be effective, knowledgeable, charitable and passionate. In turn, I encouraged them to keep increasing their expectations of me as Executive Director and of The BJF in general. I also told them to expect that our Federation will improve each year -- raising more money, engaging more people, introducing new ideas and broadening our reach and impact.

In Jewish life, I suggested, a contract is also a covenant -- a sacred agreement that binds a professional to an institution and its volunteer leaders, within the framework of a shared commitment to do holy work.

EVEN STRONGER

I also talked to them about something I do every morning as I arrive at work. As I approach the outer door of The BJF, I glance up at the big letters on the exterior of the building which say, "The Birmingham Jewish Federation." I stop for a moment, think about our wonderful organization, express my gratitude for the privilege of being its Executive Director, and vow to use that day, hopefully, to make our Federation even stronger.

Making it stronger comes in many ways. Maybe it's lifting a staff member who is having a tough day and helping the person reach higher; or listening to the aspirations of a volunteer and helping that person move closer to his or her goals; or helping a staff member or volunteer write a great piece for Update; or helping to motivate a donor to make a financial gift that will make a difference in other people's lives.

This list could go on and on, but simply having the opportunity to come to the Federation each day and pursue one or more of these activities or other opportunities to advance The BJF is exhilarating, even after 30 years. In fact, in some ways, it's more exhilarating now than ever. This is because The BJF is going through a dramatic period of growth, change and innovation, and is benefiting from an influx of outstanding young leaders.

As I told our board a few minutes before they convened in executive session to consider my new contract, three people especially deserve credit for leading The BJF into this new era. They are our two past presidents, Melba Epsman and Amy Saag, and our current president Jimmy Filler. Together, by building on the achievements of presidents who came before them, they have created a culture that has welcomed new people into our Federation family and encouraged us to experiment with new ideas.

The impact of their collective leadership is felt daily at The BJF, as an increasing number of amazing young adults gravitate to our organization, telling us they want to plant their flags at The BJF.

For me, as Executive Director of The Birmingham Jewish Federation, there is no better feeling than putting my key in the door each morning and unlocking the new day. To all those who've been so supportive of me and The BJF, I say thank you. I remain grateful to all of you, everyday in so many ways.