Problems of Small Jewish Communities Discussed at C.J.F.W.F. Parley in Cleveland

The problems and needs of the small Jewish communities in the United States as well as the development of an effective central Jewish organization to meet these needs were discussed at a regional conference of small communities held here under the auspices of the East Central Region of the Council of Jewish Federations and Welfare Funds.

The conference also considered recommendations on the strengthening and unification of the small Jewish community. Continuance of effective financial support for Israel was also among the subjects discussed.

Varicus speakers pointed out that there was an urgent need for the central commal body in each locality to develop beyond the fund-raising level and evolve into an effective central planning body to meet local as well as non-local needs. It was emphasized that support of overseas causes through the U.J.A. given by the small communities, as well as caring for needs at home, could be maintained on a high level only if the small Jewish community central body becomes representative of the entire community.

The delegates were interested in the experience of Altoona and Uniontown, which had recently employed professional executive directors for their federations and community centers. It was the sentiment of the conference that possibly two or three additional communities in the tris-state area were large enough, had the resources, and would benefit from full time professional direction. Leadership of the smaller of the communities were interested in the possibility of establishing federations comprised of three or four contiguous communities and employing a full-time professional. Samuel Port of Altoona acted as general chairman of the conference.