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Network News - Fall 2023
A Message from Simone Knego
As I prepare for the Jewish New Year, I feel so fortunate to be part of the Network family. Across the country, in every region, Jews just like us are getting ready to welcome a brand-new Jewish year with excitement and optimism. Thanks to Jewish Federations of North America, more of them than ever can do so in communities that have put security measures in place.
A Message from Edward Finkel
The days and weeks leading up to Rosh Hashanah are a reflective time, when we assess the year past and look ahead to a promising year. As we account for the year past, I am inspired by the collective work of The Jewish Federations of North America. We are especially grateful to all of you for your dedication to generously building and sustaining flourishing Jewish life.
Spotlight on Global Jewry
They are young, resilient, and deeply stressed after a year and a half of war. They have fled from their homes, endured extended periods in bomb shelters, and been separated from family members. Ukrainian Jewish children and teenagers have experienced unimaginable trauma. But this summer, thanks to the generous support of Network community donors to the Jewish Federations Annual Campaign, they were able to enjoy a short respite from the grinding, ongoing conflict.
A Leadership Training Resource to Strengthen Your Community
There’s now a place—a makom—where leaders of small communities can get the training they need to create vibrant, inclusive Jewish life. Jewish Federations of North America has partnered with the Center for Small Town Jewish Life at Colby College to create the Makom Fellowship, a three-year program that will provide generous training, mentorship and peer support to new leaders who are committed to developing their leadership skills.
Shine a Light
on Antisemitism
Apply for a Shine A Light community microgrant to create and host a local event to address and combat antisemitism. Check out the Shine A Light application website for grant criteria and examples of previously successful events.
Washington Conference
Feb. 28 - March 1, 2024
The Washington Conference is back this February. Washington Conference was a formative part of the development of many Jewish communal leaders; it catalyzed the political power of the American Jewish community.
2023 Morocco Earthquake Relief Fund
Last week’s devastating earthquake in Morocco left more than 2,500 dead and thousands more critically injured or experiencing trauma. Jewish sites in Marrakech, including two historic synagogues and the historic Jewish quarter, have reportedly suffered significant damage. Jewish Federations have opened an emergency fund to meet urgent needs in Morocco’s Jewish community and beyond. Click here to read more about the situation and our overseas partners’ response, and here to donate to the emergency fund.
Disaster Relief for Maui
The Maui wildfires have devastated the island, wiping out the historic city of Lahaina. At least 115 people lost their lives. Although the Jewish Congregation of Maui, Maui Jewish Ohana, Chabad of Maui and Maui Kosher Farm buildings were spared, the Jewish community has suffered at least one death, and many members have lost their homes and businesses. Maui’s community needs our help for emergency financial assistance, temporary shelter, food, clothing, medical supplies and trauma counseling.
In 5784, Rise to the Moment
Because of compassionate donors like you, Jewish Federations of North America is there for all of life’s most important moments—when a child safely attends High Holiday services and hears the shofar for the first time, or a a frightened homebound senior in Ukraine receives a hot kosher meal. Throughout the year, we will be there for so many moments like these.
In your own town and across our nation, we’re building and supporting safe, equitable, inclusive, and healthy Jewish communities. We’re keeping synagogues secure. Funding PJ Library books, camp scholarships and peer trips to Israel. Connecting people of all ages to Jewish life.
Your renewed commitment to Jewish Federations of North America ensures that in 5784, individuals and families will get the vital help they need, in the moments they need it most.
Make a life-changing gift today.
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