News & Updates from Federation

Meet Joe Battle: Brewing Community at Café Sunflower

Tuesday, October 21

At Café Sunflower in Rockville, Joe Battle fosters community, inclusion, and purpose—serving smiles and pastries while empowering neurodiverse young adults through meaningful work and connection.

The Start of Something Meaningful

Tuesday, October 21

Living rooms across Greater Washington came alive as over 50 women gathered for Women's Philanthropy Welcome Gatherings—fostering meaningful conversation, connection, and a shared sense of purpose across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Together, Rising to the Moment 

Friday, October 17

In a year of rising antisemitism and civic pressure, the JCRC’s 2025 Gala on October 29 will honor leaders shaping a resilient, secure, and united Jewish Greater Washington across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

A Time to Sob, and a Time to Dance

Friday, October 17

Gil Preuss

This has been an emotional week—one of relief, reunion, and the hard work ahead. As Rachel Goldberg‑Polin quoted from Ecclesiastes, “there is a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance.” In the midst of joy for those returning home, we also brace for rebuilding, healing, and forging new paths. Our federation will stand with Israel—and with its people—as they navigate what’s next.

Talking Walls: Reflections on Connection, Art, and Homecoming 

Monday, October 13

Hila Mordechai Kedar, Shlicha of The Jewish Agency for Israel at The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

As a Federation Shlicha reflecting on two years since October 7, I curated Talking Walls, an exhibition of Israeli cartoons that speaks when words fall short—honoring our heroes, celebrating returning hostages, and continuing the mission to bridge Israel and American Jewry.

A Moment of Homecoming, Hope, and Healing

Monday, October 13

Robin Hettleman Weinberg and Gil Preuss

Israel confirms the release of the remaining living hostages taken on October 7, 2023—a moment of sorrow and hope. As the community exhales and begins to heal, we honor those still waiting, those lost, and reaffirm our collective commitment to Jewish life and resilience.

“The Most Important Zionist Act of Our Time”

Monday, September 29

Udi Eitan, Associate Director for Israel Engagement

A moving evening with Kibbutz Nir Oz leaders at the Bender JCC highlighted profound stories of loss, resilience, and rebuilding—underscoring what’s possible when grassroots partnerships like Kesher Nir Oz bring communities together across continents.

What Gives You Hope?

Friday, September 26

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Despite the challenges facing our community and country, Yom Kippur fills me with hope—because the Jewish people are built for these times, and our collective resilience can help us forge a brighter future.

L’Chaim: The Power of Showing Up Together

Monday, September 22

More than a brunch, the inaugural L’Chaim event brought together 150+ women of the Lions of Judah community for a powerful morning of storytelling, leadership, and connection—celebrating legacy, impact, and the strength of women’s philanthropy.

A Morning of Leadership and Connection in Northern Virginia

Tuesday, September 16

Nearly 40 leaders gathered at Gesher Jewish Day School for the Northern Virginia Leadership Breakfast, forging stronger bonds and laying the groundwork for a more connected and empowered Jewish community across the region.

The Future Is Built on Belonging

Friday, September 12

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

In a time of rising polarization, our community is challenged to keep the tent open. Instead of drawing sharper lines, we must choose belonging over exclusion, embracing friction as the cost of true connection and growth.

Making Room for Hope

Saturday, September 6

Nearly two years after October 7, a new video brings the first proof of life for hostage Alon Ohel. As Greater Washington prepares a Sukkah of Hope near the White House, our community refuses to forget—or give up.

Rooted in Israel, Reaching Across the DMV

Saturday, September 6

From Cambodia to Greater Washington, Hila’s journey reflects a dynamic blend of global Jewish service, cultural identity, and personal connection. As Federation’s Educational Engagement Shlicha, she’s deepening regional ties to Israel through inclusive, relational leadership.

Making Space for Ourselves

Friday, September 5

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

In a time of moral complexity and internal conflict, our community is grappling with fear, grief, and uncertainty over Israel, antisemitism, and Jewish identity. This reflection urges us to stay in relationship despite discomfort and to lead with compassion through the divides.

From Intention to Action: What the Foundation Makes Possible

Friday, August 29

Through endowments, DAFs, and collaborative funds, the Jewish Community Foundation helps donors turn values into action—building a lasting legacy of Jewish connection, resilience, and meaning.

Discovering What Motivates Us

Friday, August 29

Keren M. Waranch, Chief Development Officer

Federation’s work is built on personal stories and purpose. Whether driven by legacy, loss, or hope for the future, every connection starts with a question: What motivates you?

When Hate Shows Up in the Classroom, Federation Shows Up for Teachers

Thursday, August 28

This summer, Federation partnered with Facing History to equip 20+ educators across DC with tools to teach Holocaust history and confront antisemitism—impacting thousands of students across our region.

JShield Trainings Strengthen Our Community Partners

Saturday, August 23

With High Holidays and back-to-school season underway, JShield’s security trainings equip Northern Virginia leaders with critical tools and confidence. As Taylor M. shared, “These sessions are basically a checklist of the best ways to keep people safe.”