June 22, 2020 – The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s Board of Trustees is proud to announce that longtime Federation supporters and Houston philanthropists Velva and Fred Levine have generously made the lead gift for the new Federation building, which will be named the Velva G. and H. Fred Levine Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Building.
“The Federation is equally proud and grateful that Velva and Fred continue to ensure our community’s strength by leading this historic endeavor for the Federation,” says Federation Board Chair Bobby Lapin. “The Levines have always prioritized community and, because of that commitment to all of us, their generosity will leave a lasting legacy on Houston’s Jewish community and help ensure Jewish lives are supported throughout our city and the world.”
The Federation’s Board unanimously voted to continue its presence on the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC campus and enthusiastically endorse the J’s choice to reinvest in the greater Meyerland area. Announced in February of this year, the J has currently raised $37.5 million and is progressing towards an expansion project to create a vibrant hub for the Jewish community and a destination with the next generation in mind.
The Federation will move from its current location on the J’s campus nearer to the corner of South Braeswood and Atwell, giving the new building greater visibility from South Braeswood. The new building will allow the Federation to better serve the community with improved technology, collaborative meeting spaces, and dedicated parking. In addition, the building will be raised to protect it from future flooding events.
“Velva and Fred are cherished supporters of the entire Houston Jewish community. They give of their whole selves because they believe in something bigger than themselves. Their generosity is unparalleled and their impact on the Federation will be felt for generations,” says Kari Dunn Saratovsky, President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston.