It's hard to believe that Campaign 2006 is coming to a close. On Thursday, December 15th at the York Event Theatre, UJA Federation will celebrate the enormous achievement of this year's campaign and toast all those who made it possible. Chaired by Vivian Silverberg and Barry Zagdanski, the event will feature guest speaker David Frum, well known writer and political commentator. Frum was President George W. Bush's speechwriter with the title of Special Assistant to the President from January 2001-2002. He has several books to his credit including a collection of essays, What's Right and a history of the 1970s entitled How We Got Here. Couvert is $25 with the program beginning at 7:45. For more info on the Closing Celebration, click here or call 416-2883 x320.

Professional advisors have the access and opportunity to influence the way their clients think about and allocate their wealth. On November 9, 2005, the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto's Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) hosted a program featuring Hilary Pearson, Executive Director of Philanthropic Foundations Canada. Ms. Pearson discussed trends in philanthropy for professional advisors. Golda Brown of Al G. Brown & Associates, Trevor Stein of CIBC Wood Gundy and Aki Chencinski, CA Partner, Green Chencinski Starkman Eles LLP held a panel discussion with donors they had advised regarding the many ways to create lasting legacies in the community. PAC's next program will be presented in the spring; for further information e-mail Maxine Bessin or call 416-631-5821.

As November telethons drew to a close on Wednesday, November 23rd, the Young Adult Division (YAD) held a cell-a-thon at the Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre, raising over $8,000 towards this year's campaign. Instead of using regular landline phones everyone in attendance used their own cell phones. YAD co-chairs, Steven Farber and Keith Isaac as well as, Daniel Klein YAD vice-chair, were on hand to motivate their crew, even offering a round of drinks for everyone following the cell-e-thon at Lobby, a local club. The enthusiasm and spirit of those who braved the cold and snowy weather was palpable. Many of those who ventured out last night will also take part in an upcoming YAD mission taking place this March in Israel. Tel Aviv One will see young leaders form across North America come together to engage and experience Israel as never before. For more information e-mail Maya Talmon-Chvaicer or call 416-631-5728.