JEWISH SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCY

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

May 18, 2017

  1. Call to Order Candi Kaplan

Candi Kaplan called the meeting to order at approximately 7:30PM.

  1. D’var Torah Rabbi Rachel Ackerman, MAJE, Associate Rabbi, Temple Shalom

Rabbi Ackerman distributedtext for study (Talmud Bavli: MasechetBrachot 27b-28a, translated by Decora Steinmat). The themes of visible versus perceived barriers were explored as well as the distinction between intrinsic versus extrinsic personal identity.

Rabbi Ackerman expressed appreciation for JSSA’s synagogue liaison program, suicide intervention program and other ways that JSSA has removed the barrier and afforded her congregants the opportunity to engage and receive services in meaningful life changing ways. In reflecting on the text study, Rabbi Ackerman asked the board to consider what it means to remove barriers and increase access to help for our community and asked board members to share examples where they believe JSSA has removed barriers andincreased access to its services. Two examples cited were the sliding-scale payment options available and the extensive Holocaust Survivor program at JSSA.

  1. Approval of Minutes

David Schwartz made a motion to approve the April 20meeting minutes. Sandy Sellersseconded. The minutes were unanimously approved.

  1. Nominating Committee Slate Presentation

Larry Kline referred to thewritten Nominating Committee Reportincluded among the meeting materials.He explained that all the officers listed and currently serving on the Executive Committee will be presented for Board consideration. Further, Julie Susman, Harriet Tritell and Charlotte Zuckman opted out of being re-nominatedfor additional terms of service and Seth Berenzweig and Tara McDanielresigned from the board as ofJune. Additionally he stated that Yvonne Distenfeld and Irv Katz, whose board terms have expired, will be re-nominated for a second term.

Candi Kaplan thanked Larry Kline for thework performed by the Nominating Committee. She reminded everyone that this is a year of transition as we examine JSSA’s governance structure and more work can be expected at the September 17 Board Retreat.

Larry Kline informed the Board the slate of nominations will be voted upon at the June 13 board meeting. He later recognized the contributions made by members of the Nominating Committee.

The full Nominating Committee report to the board is included as an addendum to these minutes.

  1. Finance Committee Report

The Board received an overview of JSSA’s financial picture to better understand the context of our current operating losses in FY 17 and the underlying, long-standing structural deficit. While this structural deficit is not new to the Agency, the suggested management actions to address the issue are different and include making strategic investments in infrastructure and program models to improve profitable programs and reduce losses or restructure deficit programs. This matter was discussed extensively with the Board and both Todd and Carrie addressed their inquiries, concerns and questions.

Candi Kaplan announced that the Budget Committee has begun to hold meetings with management and a full budget discussion with the Board would occur at the June board meeting.

The March monthly financials comprised of the Dashboard and Narrative, Balance Sheet, Income Statement and Operating Statementof Activities circulated among the meeting materials are included as an addendum to these minutes. The presentation JSSA’s Financial Picture made by Todd Schenk is also included among the meeting materials.

  1. Building Committee Report

David Flyer reported that construction of the building on Montrose Road which was originally planned to begin in May was delayed until June 1 due to asbestos abatement activities. He projected a reduction in costs for demolition work.

Todd Schenk showed a slide with a picture of the building on Montrose Road undergoing demolition.

  1. Development Committee Report

Elliot Gruber reported the May 7 Spring Benefit generated gross revenue of approximately $518K and an estimated net of $300K. Kind sentiments were shared about Patrick Kennedy’s engagement as keynote speaker. Overall, the reaction was that his story and enthusiasm was amazing; the content of his speech was mission centered; and attendees were able to leave the event with better knowledge of what JSSA represents.

Todd Schenk acknowledged the important role of the event co-chairsin attracting new people to the event. This was evidenced by the many new introductions made that evening.

Legacy Giving

The appeal given by Yvonne Distenfeld at the April board meeting was well received and the Board had requested additional information about the legacy program at JSSA. Elliot reported 70 confirmed legacy commitments. Nearly half of our board members have made a legacy commitment, which is better than what is usually observed at other non-profits. Board members were informed we are hoping tosecure an additional 15 legacy commitmentsin FY 18.

An announcement was made that board giving was at 96% for the fiscal year. Only two gifts were reported as outstanding and more details regarding board contributions to the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington will be shared at a later date.

  1. President’s Report

Candi Kaplan announced that September 17 is confirmed for the JSSA Board of Directors Retreat. She encouraged full board participation.

  1. Old Business

There was no old business to discuss.

  1. New Business

There was no new business to discuss.

  1. Good and Welfare

David Flyer announced that this son had successful heart surgery and is doing well. Scott Green announced that his son has plans to attend Ohio State University in the fall. Judy Oppenheim announced that her granddaughter Mataya was graduating from 6th grade and will be moving to Maryland. Tal Widdes announced that her son just returned home after 12 monthsof deployment to Kuwait.

Respectfully Submitted,

Scott Green

Secretary

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