Rani Gvili, a 24-year-old Israeli hero, gave his life defending Kibbutz Alumim on October 7. Months later, he was finally brought home—marking the end of an excruciating chapter for Israel, the hostages’ families, and Jewish communities worldwide who fought tirelessly for their return.
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Building a Stronger Jewish Future
DonateThe Jewish Federation of Greater Washington
Inspiring a Strong, Connected Jewish Community
Across DC, Northern Virginia, and suburban Maryland, we bring people, organizations, and resources together to take on our community’s biggest challenges. As a hub for bold ideas and collective action, we empower Jewish Greater Washington to imagine what’s possible and shape what’s next.
We’re building a vibrant Jewish future—rooted in care, belonging, and bold purpose. A future where every person feels seen and supported. Where Jewish learning thrives, Jewish peoplehood and Israel are embraced, and our values come to life in the ways we lead, give, and show up for one another.
Celebrate Inclusion and Belonging
Observed each February, Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month (JDAIM) centers disability inclusion as an essential part of Jewish life and belonging.
Building meaningful, personal connections to Israel and Israelis.
A strong connection to Israel enhances our individual and collective American Jewish experience. Feeling part of a global Jewish family and connected to the Jewish homeland is one of the gifts of Jewish identity. Our role is to help people pursue and deepen those ties and form connections with Israel and Jewish peoplehood that feel real, nuanced, and personal.
Ready for Summer Adventure
A first Jewish overnight camp experience can be life-changing—and now’s the time to make it happen. Through One Happy Camper, eligible first-time campers can receive grants of up to $1,000 toward summer 2026.
Whether it’s friendship around the campfire or discovering new ways to grow Jewishly, this is the summer they’ll never forget.
Catch the Roundup
Whether you’re planning your weekend, exploring ways to give back, or catching up on community news, you’ll find something meaningful here.
Stronger Together: Our Impact in Action
Ori, a Federation shlicha (Israeli emissary), brings Israel to life for kids and families across Greater Washington with honesty and heart—sharing its complexities, creativity, and joy through Federation’s Shlichim Program and hands-on educational experiences.
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After an antisemitic arson attack at Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, 222 donors from Greater Washington raised nearly $35,000 to support its restoration—proving the enduring strength of collective giving and Jewish community resilience.
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Standing in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square as the final hostage was returned, Federation’s president reflects on resilience, sorrow, and the healing work supported by our community and partners across Israel.
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For families with children who have learning disabilities or unique needs, traditional B’nai Mitzvah ceremonies may feel out of reach. But Jewish tradition allows for meaningful, personalized celebrations—because becoming B’nai Mitzvah is about age, not performance.
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With $300M in federal NSGP funding available, Federation’s JShield program helps Jewish institutions navigate the complex grant process—bringing over $5.25M in security funding to our region in 2025 alone.
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Inspiring the next generation
Through mentoring, meaningful volunteering, and vibrant Jewish-life experiences, we empower teens and youth across Greater Washington to lead, learn, and belong.
Empowering leadership
We’re dedicated to identifying and nurturing Jewish leaders across Greater Washington, providing a variety of experiences to help them grow and lead.
Securing our community
Through expert assessments, grant support, training, and trusted partnerships, JShield, our community security initiative, works hand-in-hand with Jewish organizations across Greater Washington to build a culture of security rooted in care and confidence.
Combating antisemitism
Together with community leaders, partner organizations, and you, we are transforming fear into focus, and frustration into forward momentum.
Responding to crisis
Whether it’s a natural disaster, local challenge, or geopolitical emergency, we’re ready to respond quickly, thoughtfully, and with care, clarity, and action.
Connecting with Israel
Through our Community Shlichim and Hands-On Israel programs, we’re proud to create opportunities for our community to connect with Israel on a deeper level—understanding its challenges and building lasting relationships with Israelis from all walks of life.
Building Jewish life in NoVA
Through neighborhood gatherings, family programs, and partnerships with local organizations, we’re helping Jewish life in Northern Virginia grow brighter, stronger, and more connected, one relationship at a time.
