The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis (JFGI) is deeply saddened by the passing of Charles “Chuck” Cohen, Z”l, a longtime prominent Jewish philanthropic leader in the Indianapolis community. May his memory be a blessing. 
Chuck was intricately involved with the Jewish Federation after he moved to Indianapolis. His involvement shaped much of what JFGI is today due to his tireless involvement as a volunteer and fundraiser for close to 50 years. He served as President of JFGI from 1995-98, and volunteered for the Federation’s many campaigns, fundraising events, and committees. Chuck chaired “Our Vision, Our Promise, Our Legacy,” which was an Endowment campaign to bring the future Indianapolis endowments to $100 million in anticipation of the 100th Anniversary of the Jewish Federation. The campaign ran from 2000-05, and since that time, Chuck worked diligently with staff and lay leadership to ensure that JFGI will realize this milestone. 
In addition, Chuck was a member of the Board of Directors of Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation; President of the IHC Foundation; President of the Jewish Community Center from 1980-82; a Life Board Member of the JCC; Chair of the Jewish Federations of North America Planned Giving and Endowment Committee; a member of the Board of Trustees of the Jewish Federations of North America, and President of Broadmoor Country Club from 1983-85. 
Chuck also worked with JFNA and the United Way of Central Indiana in recent years to help energize their Endowment programs. He not only worked with the Board of United Way but also with agencies who are part of the United Way family. 
Recognition from charities includes the JFGI 2016 Or L’Dor Award (A Light Unto the Generations), JFGI Liebert I. Mossler Community Service Award, the JFGI Kehilla Award for sustained outstanding service to the Jewish community, JFGI L.L. Goodman Leadership Award, the Tikkun Olam Award for Leadership in the America’s Voices in Israel program, and the Gates of Jerusalem Medal. He was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash during the Or L’Dor Award Celebration in 2016 by the Governor of Indiana for distinguished service to the state and his community. 
Chuck was an influential mentor, friend, and teammate to many leaders & professionals within the Indianapolis Jewish Community. 
The Chuck Cohen Endowment Fund has been set up through the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis. Tribute contributions may be made to the Federation: 6705 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, or online at https://jfgi.givingfuel.com/tribute.