Commission Defines Relationships Between Federations, Community Centers

A statement of relationships between local Jewish federations and welfare funds and Jewish community centers, prepared by a joint commission of more than 100 leaders from all parts of the country, was issued here today by the Council of Jewish Federations and Welfare Funds. The commission, of which Jerome N. Curtis, Cleveland, is chairman, was set up jointly by the CJFWF and the National Jewish Welfare Board.

The statement spotlights the areas of responsibilities of federations and centers. Recognizing the interdependence of both in the general welfare of the community, the statement stresses that understanding and respect for “each other’s function and competence is essential to harmonious and fruitful , relationship.”

“Sound relationships require that both federation and center be competent in their respective areas of operation. Moreover, each has the obligation to contribute to the effectiveness of the other. A closely defined working association between federation and center is essential to the achievement of these ends.” the statement read.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES OF FEDERATION AND CENTER OUTLINED TO AVOID AMBIGUITY

In planning for Jewish communal needs, the federation assumes overall responsibility, with the center and other community organizations amply represented. The center, on the other hand, assumes responsibility for “continuous evaluation and planning in its area of service.” This includes ongoing programs, new services and efforts to meet unmet needs. It also feeds its own views into the overall planning process.

In financing center operations, the statement of principles lists the sources of center income as membership fees, charges for special services, contributions and funds received from the Community Chest, the federation, or both. Responsibility for formulation of the center budget rests with the center. Review of the proposed budget in relation to total community needs and action on the budget is the responsibility of the federation.

The statement of principles recommends that the federation become involved in the center’s relationship to the Community Chest. If the federation does not make any allocation to the center, the statement declares that “it is nevertheless desirable that the center consult with the federation in establishing its budget.” Administration of the center’s financial operations in accordance with the budget is the responsibility of the center. Review of the center’s operations, in relation to the approved budget, however, is within the scope of the federations functions.

FEDERATION TO DEAL WITH POLICY MATTERS RELATING TO OVERALL COMMUNITY

Policy matters related to the overall community are the province of the federation while policy matters relating to the internal operations of the center rest with the center. The center is also responsible for maintaining sound relationships with other agencies in the Jewish community. Where such relationships affect total community policy, they should be determined in consultation with the federation.

Overall planning of center services should be a cooperative undertaking by the center and the federation, according to the statement. Where two or more independent centers operate in a community, the statement of principles recommends that each assume responsibility for its programs and that the federation like the lead in helping maintain constructive relationships between them.