Eric Wood Whether in baseball, hockey, or basketball, games are often won as a result of changes made in the game-plan.

The same can be said about fundraising in a challenging economy. And in the past few years, but especially in the past 12 months, we have thoughtfully reexamined what has worked – and what has not worked – with regard to our Federation’s Annual Campaign. As Campaign Chair through June, I am committed to launching a successful fundraising campaign, with some important changes designed to make the experience more successful, and yes, more enjoyable.

To our cherished contributors at every level: We will do our best this year to approach you in a thoughtful, respectful and humane way. But in exchange, we need two things from you: First, we need you to respond favorably and generously. And second, so that the entire responsibility to support our local and international causes not rest on the shoulders of a few, we will ask you to help us find a few new contributors to Federation. Last year, we added 200 new gifts to the campaign. Let’s do the same this year.

To our cherished volunteer solicitors: We promise not to overburden you. We have a system this year where we will ask you to “close” the cards of 5 donors, and when done, we will ask you to close another 5 cards, at which time your task will be complete. Again, in exchange, we need more of you to step up to the plate to take on this modest, but essential role.

Our local Agency needs have never been greater. Our on-site partners in Israel and wherever our People are in need, deserve your generous support. So, batter up! And let’s put 2010 in the “win” column.