Month: May 2025

Burned tents. Twisted metal. Scorched earth and scattered shoes.

That’s what visitors will see when the Nova Music Festival Exhibition opens in Washington, DC—a raw, immersive experience that brings the events of October 7 into sharp, unflinching focus.

Hundreds of young people were dancing under the stars at a peace festival. By morning, 378 were murdered. Others were injured, kidnapped, or left to carry unbearable memories. The exhibition tells that story—using the very objects left behind.

Why Here, Why Now

This city doesn’t just shape laws—it shapes narratives. And those narratives are still under attack.

Nearly two years after the October 7 massacre, Jewish students continue to face harassment for wearing a Magen David. On Wednesday, May 21, two Israeli Embassy workers were shot and killed outside of the Capital Jewish Museum.

Posters of kidnapped Israelis are still being torn down in local neighborhoods. And there are still people—some in public leadership—who question whether the attacks happened the way survivors describe them.

Bringing the Nova Exhibition to Washington isn’t just about remembrance. It’s about truth. It’s about urgency. And it’s about making space—for people to see what happened, sit with it, and decide what kind of world they want to build in response.

A Space to Witness and Understand

The exhibition goes beyond explanation—it brings people inside the experience. Through survivor testimony, personal artifacts, and immersive design, visitors move through the joy of the festival, the terror of the attack, and the heartbreak left in its wake.

It’s hard. It’s raw. And it’s necessary.

Because in a time when facts are debated and grief is politicized, bearing witness becomes a moral act.

But this is also a place for connection—for shared grief, honest dialogue, and the strength that comes from seeing one another fully.

What’s Ahead

Federation is proud to help bring the Nova Exhibition to Washington—together with partners here and in Israel. This is a space for truth-telling, healing, and solidarity—not just for the Jewish community, but for anyone who believes in dignity and human rights.

Ticket sales are now open at novaexhibition.com. Learn more, share this story, and come experience this powerful exhibition for yourself.

This isn’t just about what happened. It’s about what we choose to do now.

Photo credit: novaexhibition.com

Earlier this month, we had the extraordinary opportunity to host participants from Kitov—a bold and visionary program from Israel’s Shaharit Institute, supported in part by a Federation Impact Grant.

Kitov brings together a uniquely diverse group of Israeli changemakers – religious and secular, Jewish and Arab, Ashkenazi and Mizrahi, progressive and traditional. Their mission? To tackle some of Israel’s most pressing and complex societal challenges through collaboration, empathy, and innovation through deep dialogue and creative problem-solving.

During their visit to Washington, DC, Kitov participants immersed themselves in the fabric of American Jewish life. From warm and lively Shabbat dinners with local families, to thought-provoking conversations about antisemitism on college campuses, to engaging visits like their stop at Mem Global (Formerly Moishe House). Every encounter sparked connection, learning, and mutual respect. These moments offered a glimpse into the vibrant diversity of Israel, and reminded us just how much we share across oceans and borders.

During the visit, I had the opportunity and privilege to meet with the group and its leader, Dr. Eilon Schwartz, together with Karen Katzman, Director of Federation’s Israel Office. In our conversations, we explored the shared challenges facing Israeli society and the American Jewish community, the opportunities ahead, and most importantly, meaningful pathways for continued collaboration between our communities.

In a time of uncertainty – across Israel, the U.S., and the world – Federation is proud to stand with initiatives like Kitov, which works to build bridges, elevate unheard voices, and strengthen the ties between people of all backgrounds. This is how we shape a more inclusive, resilient, and hopeful future for all of us.

Together, let’s keep building – toward a better tomorrow.

In the following letter, a group of Jewish Federation and foundation leaders call for unity, civility, and collaboration in the face of the rising tide of hatred toward Jews.”

Dear Friends and Leaders of the Jewish Community,

We write to you today with urgency, with heartbreak, and with unwavering resolve. The time to unite is now, not tomorrow or next week but NOW.

At a time when antisemitism is rising at a staggering and dangerous pace—on campuses, in the streets, online, and tragically, again in deadly acts of violence—we must confront truth: those who seek to harm Jews do not ask us how we vote, how we feel about Israel, or what kind of kippah—if any—we wear.

Last Wednesday evening, in our nation’s capital, it was murder. Weeks earlier, arson was attempted at the home of a Jewish governor. From Pittsburgh to Poway, and across North America, we are victims of threats, vandalism, harassment, and intimidation with a frequency and intensity many of us never imagined we would experience in our lifetimes. Our community is deeply divided on many issues: on how best to or even if we can fight antisemitism, on the future of Israel and its war in Gaza, and on politics more broadly.

These are real and meaningful debates, and we must have them in good faith and with respect. But let us be clear: those who hate us rarely make such distinctions. To them, a Jew is a Jew. And history has shown us where that logic can lead. Throughout history, when Jews failed to unite in the face of existential threats, the consequences were catastrophic. The destruction of the Second Temple was not only the result of Roman power, but also of sinat chinam—baseless hatred and infighting among Jews. We cannot afford to repeat those mistakes. Our disagreements, however, deeply felt, must not overshadow our shared obligation to protect and uplift the Jewish people.

We are all in this together, and we must stop fighting each other. Now is the time to stand shoulder to shoulder—not in uniformity of opinion, but in unity of purpose. This is not the job of one Jewish organization or a few brave leaders, it is OUR responsibility. We, as Jewish leaders, choose unity over division.

We, the undersigned, call upon every Jewish leader—religious and secular, progressive and conservative, young and old—to find common cause in the most fundamental of obligations: to ensure the safety, dignity, and future of our people. Let our disagreements not divide us into paralysis or despair. Let them sharpen our thinking and deepen our commitments.

And above all, let us remember that in moments of crisis, Jewish strength has always come from Jewish unity.

Am Yisrael Chai.

With hope and determination,

(Names listed in Alphabetical Order)

B. Elka Abrahamson, Rabbi
President
The Wexner Foundation

Amanda Abrams
Executive Director
The Zalik Foundation

Marc Baker
President and CEO
Combined Jewish Philanthropies

Josh Donner
Executive Director
The Shapira Foundation

Lisa Eisen
Co President
Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies

Rabbi Noah Farkas
President and CEO
Jewish Federation of Los Angeles

Jeff Finkelstein
President and CEO
Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh

Barry Finestone
President and CEO
Jim Joseph Foundation

Julie Platt and Eric Fingerhut
Chair, President and CEO
Jewish Federations of North America

Deena Fuchs
Executive Director
Micah Philanthropies

Rachel Garbow Monroe
President and CEO
The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation

Rabbi David Gedzelman
President and CEO
The Steinhardt Foundation for Jewish Life

Eric S. Goldstein
CEO
UJA-Federation of New York

Michael Hoffman
President and CEO
Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County

Stephen Hoffman
Chairman
The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation

Steven Ingber
CEO
Jewish Federation of Detroit

Brain Jaffee
CEO
The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati

Jay Kaiman
President
The Marcus Foundation

Karyn Cohen Leviton
VP, Jewish Life and Engagement
One8 Foundation

Adam Minsky
President and CEO
UJA Federation of Greater Toronto

Yamit Taragan Nahami
Acting CEO
Aviv Foundation

Lonnie Nassiter
CEO and President
JUF Chicago

Adina Poupko
Executive Director
Natan Fund

Gil Preuss
CEO
The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Dana Raucher
Executive Director
The Samuel Bronfman Foundation

Erika Rudin-Luria
President
Jewish Federation of Cleveland

Joy Sissisky
President and CEO
Bay Area Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund

Andrés Spokoiny
President and CEO
Jewish Funders Network

Marina Yudborovsky
CEO
Genesis Philanthropy Group

If you think it’s just about calling out hate, think again.

At a recent panel hosted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington’s Ben Gurion Society, three frontline leaders—
Rob Granader, Vicki Fishman, and Omer Oppenheim—sat down for a candid, sometimes uncomfortable, and deeply human conversation about what it really takes to protect and uplift Jewish life today.

And they didn’t hold back. The conversation opened with a sobering acknowledgment: antisemitism is not only rising, but it’s also becoming more complex to address.

“We’re losing the battle on social media.”

That’s how Rob Granader put it. A longtime advocate and Federation task force leader, Granader spoke with urgency about the cultural and political headwinds facing the Jewish community. “We’re in a mode in this world where we’re not changing our minds,” he said. “So do you go after your foes—or do you focus on strengthening your friends?”

It’s a question that doesn’t have easy answers. But it’s one that this panel wrestled with head-on.

Omer Oppenheim, Director of Government Relations at Jewish Federations of North America, pointed to broader communal division as a critical barrier: “Half the Jewish community thinks the problem is antisemitism on the right, and the other half thinks it’s on the left. If we can’t agree on what the problem is, how can we expect others to get on the same page?”

The Hidden Frontlines: Schools, City Councils, and Quiet Wins

While many headlines today focus on college campuses, Vicki Fishman, Director of Virginia Government and Community Relations at the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), pointed to a quieter, more insidious battleground: K–12 schools. “The problem may not be antisemitism itself—it might be bad teaching,” she explained. “And when you have a good policy but a bad teacher, you still end up with antisemitic outcomes.”

She also shared a behind-the-scenes win in Alexandria, Virginia, where quiet advocacy helped stop a BDS resolution before it could gain traction. “To hear from someone who’s not a friend of Israel that there’s no appetite for this—it gave me hope.”

The Power of Relationships

A recurring theme throughout the evening was the importance of relationships—especially when navigating difficult conversations. Whether it’s educating a local official about the implications of invoking antisemitic tropes or deciding when to call out versus call in, the panelists emphasized nuance and persistence.

Fishman shared a story about a local politician who used problematic language on national television. “We got him on the phone and talked to him about what the problem was… and he stopped making that reference.” These behind-the-scenes efforts, while not always visible, are essential to long-term change.

Hope in Action

Despite the challenges, the panelists shared what gives them hope. Granader spoke passionately about the younger generation: “Post October 7, there’s been so much energy… People are showing up and being resolute about being Jewish in a way that is just so encouraging.”

Oppenheim, who works on Capitol Hill often, added, “Both parties care about combating antisemitism… Maybe now is not the right time, but in three months, six months—however long it takes—it’ll be the right time to make meaningful change.”

“They’re lions.”

That’s how Granader described the younger generation of Jewish students stepping up in the wake of October 7. “They’re resolute. They’re showing up. And they’re not afraid to be visibly, proudly Jewish.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by Oppenheim: “Both parties care about combating antisemitism,” he said. “Maybe now isn’t the moment for big change—but that moment is coming.”

From Conversation to Action – What YOU Can Do

Our esteemed panel didn’t mince words. “Live Jewishly in whatever way you can, and don’t be shy about it,” Fishman challenged, recounting how wearing a yellow pin or a dog tag necklace can often spark conversation.

Other advice from the panel included:

Responding to action alerts and contacting your members of Congress is one of the most direct ways to make your voice heard and support policies that combat antisemitism.

Stay informed by subscribing to newsletters like those from the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) and Jewish Insider. Awareness is a powerful first step toward action.

Get involved in advocacy days hosted by your local and state legislatures. Showing up in person demonstrates the strength and visibility of our community.

When you’re invited to join a task force or working group, say yes. Your voice and perspective matter, and your involvement can shape meaningful outcomes.

Live Jewishly—and do so openly. Everyday moments, from casual conversations to public expressions of identity, can become powerful opportunities for education and connection.

Consider hosting gatherings like Shabbat dinners. These informal settings allow others to experience Jewish life in an authentic, welcoming, and non-confrontational way.

Keep in mind that what may seem obvious to you might be unfamiliar to others. Be ready to explain Jewish history, culture, and experiences with patience and clarity.

And finally, as Rob Granader said so well: “Say ‘yes’ when Federation calls!”

Last night, two young members of our community, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, were murdered in an antisemitic attack in Washington, DC.

They were peacebuilders—deeply committed to fostering understanding, repairing divides, and creating a more just and compassionate world. Sarah was a beloved member of our extended Federation family, known personally by several on our team. Yaron was planning on proposing to Sarah. Their life together was just beginning to take shape.

And it was stolen by hate.

We grieve. We rage. We feel afraid.

It is in our shared pain and the deep connection we find in one another—in our Jewish community—that we begin to heal.

We are in close contact with local and federal law enforcement. Our partners in law enforcement are answering the call to increase presence around Jewish institutions. Our JShield security team is on high alert and working around the clock to protect our community.

The Jewish community of Greater Washington is strong. We stand in solidarity in our commitment to combat hate.

We are shaken—but we are not alone. And we will move forward—together.

May their memories be for a blessing—and a source of strength. 

With broken hearts and unbreakable resolve,

Robin & Gil

Robin Hettleman Weinberg
President, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Gil Preuss
CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Photo Credit: The New York Times courtesy of the Milgrim Family

They came from Toronto, California, Texas, Ohio, New York, and everywhere in between to Baltimore, Maryland, earlier this month for the 2025 JPro (Jewish Professionals) Conference. Organized by Leading Edge in partnership with the Jewish Federations of North America, this landmark gathering of more than 1,300 Jewish communal leaders was more than just a conference—it became a vibrant hub for connection, learning, and inspiration.

“Through every conversation, it became clear: my ‘why’ is about creating engagement opportunities that bring people into the fold.”
— Erin Dreyfuss, Transformation Manager, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

For many, the JPro Conference was a space to reflect on how to deepen their impact and strengthen the Jewish community, both professionally and personally.

Highlights and Innovations

The conference was a unique opportunity to hear from a diverse array of speakers, each contributing their perspective on how Jewish values and leadership intersect in today’s world:

• Anne Neuberger, former Deputy National Security Advisor, brought a wealth of knowledge on security and leadership.
• Daniel Vaknin, a survivor of the Nova Music Festival attack, shared his powerful story of resilience.
• Alex Edelman, the Tony- and Emmy-winning comedian, added humor and heart, reminding everyone of the power of storytelling.
• Adam Neuman, Baltimore Ravens Chief of Staff, spoke about leadership in sports, showing that Jewish values have far-reaching influence.
• DJ Daniel Vaknin, who performed at the Nova Festival, used music to reflect on the power of culture in healing.

These featured speakers came to Baltimore from diverse backgrounds and brought with them a wide range of professional experiences. While not all of them work directly within the “Jewish world,” each has found meaningful ways to live Jewishly in their chosen careers. Their stories highlight how their Jewish values and education have helped shape their identities and contributed to their success as professionals and individuals.

“In a world that often feels divided, being in a space filled with passionate, thoughtful people committed to the greater good of our Jewish community was truly powerful.”
— Shira Pomerantz, Development Associate, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

The conference wasn’t just about learning—it was about reconnecting with the heart of the work.

Many Paths, Shared Purpose: A Community Reunited

This year’s theme, “Many Paths, Shared Purpose: Crafting Sacred Communities Together,” was particularly poignant, given the recent global challenges that have shaped the Jewish communal experience. The conference was the first held since the tragic events of October 7, 2023, which added a layer of reflection to the gathering.

In session after session, Jewish professionals from across the country shared insights into the evolving landscape of Jewish nonprofits.

“The connections I made at JPro25 are already sparking collaborations that will strengthen our local impact.”
— Udi Eitan, Associate Director of Israel Engagement, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

From tackling antisemitism to navigating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the discussions were raw, meaningful, and solutions-driven.

But it wasn’t just about the big issues—it was also about the little moments of connection.

“JPro reminded me of the value of shared learning and connection. It’s essential for both personal growth and community strength.”
— Dana Bornstein, Senior Director of Leadership, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Whether through intimate workshops or networking over lunch, the conference offered rich, human interactions that transcended the professional realm.

The Personal Impact: Voices from Federation Delegates

Many from the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington left the conference feeling not just professionally recharged but personally affirmed.

“It was inspiring to see so many people coming together to build a better Jewish world. I’ve grown both personally and professionally.”
— Samantha Glossman, Communications Manager, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

For Samantha and others, the conference was a reminder of why they do what they do—helping to build a vibrant Jewish future.

“The professional talent in the Jewish communal world is essential to building thriving Jewish communities. That’s why Jewish Federations are committed to developing talent for the entire Jewish community, not just Federations.”
— Shira Hutt, Executive Vice President, Jewish Federations of North America

Shira Hutt’s words resonated deeply with many attendees, reaffirming the collective commitment to nurturing talent and leadership within the Jewish community.

What’s Next for Jewish Communal Leadership?

Looking ahead, Jewish nonprofits stand at a crossroads. With over 75% of Jewish nonprofits expected to need new senior leaders in the coming years, the need for emerging leadership is more urgent than ever.

“The effectiveness of an organization is directly tied to the strength of its leadership.”
— Rachel Garbow Monroe, President and CEO, Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation

As Rachel Garbow Monroe noted in an Op-ed for eJewish Philanthropy, conferences like JPro are pivotal in preparing the next generation of Jewish leaders.

On the local front, the Jewish Talent Project aims to turn Greater Washington into a hub for Jewish communal talent. Spearheaded by former Federation president Philip Margolius, this new initiative seeks to improve working conditions, offer professional development opportunities, and foster better communication within Jewish organizations.

Israelis from every walk of life gathered in the desert to dance. Instead, they were hunted.  

On October 6, 2023, Israelis from across the country gathered at the Nova Music Festival in southern Israel. It was a celebration—a night meant to unite people from all walks of life, to dance under the stars, to share music, and to experience freedom and connection. The desert echoed with joy, laughter, and the sound of life. 

Then, in an instant, it all changed. 

What began as a night of light and love was torn apart by terror. 378 festival-goers were killed, and 44 more were taken hostage. What was once a celebration of joy and community became a scene of unimaginable horror. 

But even as lives were shattered, a different story began to unfold—one of resilience, one that would refuse to be defined by violence. 

The Tribe of Nova: From Darkness to Light 

The festival—the joy, the unity, the freedom to be yourself, to celebrate life with those around you—was meant to be a night like no other. 

And then came the attack. 

What followed was chaos, devastation, and loss. But it didn’t end there. The survivors—those who had gathered in joy—came together in a way that was as beautiful as it was raw. They held on to the memories of what they had lost but also to the power of their shared strength. 

The Nova Exhibit isn’t just an art display. It’s a journey—an emotional, immersive experience that takes you from the joy of that night, through the terror of the attack, and into the light of hope and healing that followed. This isn’t a passive story—it pulls you in. You feel the celebration, the loss, and the power of community. You stand alongside survivors who, despite everything, found a way to rebuild. 

This exhibit is a testament to what happens when a community refuses to be broken. It amplifies the voices of the survivors and honors the lives lost. But more than that, it challenges us: to remember, to bear witness, and to stand in solidarity. 

Why Washington Needs to Hear This Story 

In Washington, D.C., the Nova Exhibit will invite us all to step into the shoes of those who lived through the unthinkable—to see not just the individuals affected, but the impact on an entire society, a culture, a way of life. 

This is a chance—our chance—to be part of something that goes beyond simply learning about tragedy. It’s about witnessing history, experiencing resilience, and understanding what it truly means to rebuild. 

A Call to Action: Stand with Us in Remembering and Rebuilding 

This is more than a story of loss—it’s a story of strength, survival, and rebuilding. The Nova Exhibit invites everyone—Jewish or not, local or global—to experience a story that must be remembered, understood, and carried forward. 

Stand with the survivors. Stand with those who refuse to be defined by pain. Stand with us as we embrace the light that will guide us all forward. 

Their story belongs to all of us. Let’s make sure we hear it. 

To learn more about the exhibit, ticketing process, and what to expect, visit novaexhibition.com. While the site currently highlights the Toronto tour, it offers a strong preview of what’s to come in DC. More information about the DC exhibit coming soon! 

We are deeply grateful to the generous donors who made it possible to bring this powerful exhibit to Greater Washington. Their support reflects the heart of the Federation’s mission: creating space for our community to gather, reflect, and bear witness; fostering understanding through education; and ensuring we remember—together. 

Photo Credit: Nova Exhibition Website

One in five adolescents faces a mental health challenge each year. This alarming statistic affects families across Greater Washington, but here’s the good news: we have the power to make a difference. The BBYO Center for Adolescent Wellness (BBYO CAW) is leading the way by providing critical tools, knowledge, and support to transform how we address teen mental health in our community. 

Since its founding in 2019, BBYO CAW has been dedicated to empowering teens, parents, educators, and professionals to recognize, respond to, and act on mental health challenges. Their work is building a network of support that spans schools, camps, afterschool programs, and community centers, ensuring that no teen faces mental health struggles alone. 

“I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this program really opened my eyes. It wasn’t just information—it was something I could actually use in my life, right now.”
— Teen Participant, 11th Grade, Capital Camps 

See the difference BBYO CAW is making: BBYO CAW in Action 

In a world where teen mental health is at the forefront of national conversations, BBYO CAW’s work proves that with early intervention, education, and community support, we can save lives and empower a generation to not only survive, but thrive. 

BBYO CAW’s Impact on Our Community 

• 274 teens trained in Teen Mental Health First Aid 

• 122 adults equipped with tools for Youth Mental Health First Aid, spotting red flags, and building resilience 

• Nearly 30 organizations across Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. impacted 

Real Stories, Real Impact: BBYO CAW’s Milestones 

This year, for the first time, BBYO CAW trained the entire 10th grade and staff at Berman Hebrew Academy, bridging gaps in understanding and mental health education within the Orthodox community. 

“As a teacher, I’m now so much more aware of what to look for. This isn’t just a session—it’s something that should be happening in every school.”
— Faculty, Berman Hebrew Academy 

After completing BBYO CAW’s training, a teen recognized signs of suicidal ideation in a friend and immediately took action. This is the power of prevention and the importance of equipping teens with the right tools to act. 

“I feel like every parent needs to know this. It’s one thing to hear about mental health, but it’s another to be equipped to actually help when your child needs you most.”
— Parent, Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School 

BBYO CAW’s workshops are empowering parents and educators with the tools to recognize red flags, offer support, and intervene when needed. Their work is ensuring that every adult in the community is prepared to help. 

Join the Movement: Empowering Our Community to Support Teen Mental Health 

BBYO CAW offers free 30-minute introductory assessments for youth-serving organizations, helping them design custom training programs for teens, parents, and educators. This partnership approach ensures that our community is equipped to offer meaningful support to the next generation. 

“This program made me realize just how much more we need to do for our kids. It’s so important, and I’m grateful my school took this seriously.”
— Faculty, Berman Hebrew Academy 

Together, we can make sure that no teen struggles alone—that every teen has the support, understanding, and empowerment they need to thrive. 

Your support of the Jewish Federation fuels programs like BBYO CAW to transform lives. Together, we build a stronger, healthier future. Donate today 

Photo Credit: BBYO CAW Website

“We sang, we laughed, we cried, we dug deep, and we unplugged. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect weekend or a more inspiring group of women.”

Baltimore, MD — They arrived carrying snacks, tote bags, and just a little hesitation. For many, it was their first time stepping away—from routines, from responsibilities, from the noise of the everyday—to join a retreat they weren’t quite sure how to describe.

By the end of the WOW (Women of Wisdom) Shabbat Experience, they were finishing each other’s sentences.

Held in a quiet, wooded corner of Maryland, the retreat brought together a multigenerational group of Jewish women from across the region for a weekend of reflection, connection, and leadership-building. The agenda wasn’t just about workshops or wellness—it was about making space. Space to show up, speak up, and let go of everything else for just long enough to feel present.

Thunderstorms rolled in. Laughter broke out. Tears were shared, and so were shoes. Somewhere between the circle discussions and late-night conversations, something shifted. Uncertainty gave way to something steadier: community.

The presence of seasoned professionals like Federation President Robin Hettleman Weinberg, Kerry Iris, and Wendy Feldman Block added a deeper layer to the experience. Their openness and wisdom underscored what many participants felt: that the power of WOW came not just from the setting, but from who was in the room—and how willing they were to show up for one another.

Guided by the grounded, thoughtful leadership of Rabbi Sarah Krinsky of Adas Israel Congregation and co-chairs Danielle Traub and Mollie Bowman, the retreat struck a rare balance: structured and spiritual, intentional and inclusive, and filled with Jewish learning! These leaders didn’t just organize the weekend—they joined it. Fully.

As the women packed up their bags and returned to their homes, they carried more than just takeaways. They carried new relationships. New perspective. And a shared sense that something meaningful had started—and no one wanted it to end.

The buzz is already building— email ilana.matheson@shalomdc.org to learn how to be part of what’s next.

“Our greatest resource is community.” – Albert Small

At Federation’s Real Estate Breakfast on Tuesday morning, that message landed with power and purpose.

More than 100 Jewish real estate professionals filled the room—and it wasn’t just for the strong coffee. It was a morning of insight, connection, and momentum. The energy was unmistakable. Conversations flowed, handshakes turned into new relationships, and across the room, one thing was clear: this community shows up.

Marc Duber and Dana Jacobsohn, two of the industry’s most respected voices, shared reflections on career growth, luxury development in their field, and the power of mentorship. And again and again, the conversation returned to relationships—the people you trust, who show up when it matters, who help you build something lasting.

Their foundation, they shared, has always been the Jewish community.

That idea—community as a constant—resonated well beyond the stage. You could hear it in the conversations around every table.

The morning also marked the launch of the Builders Society, a new giving level for Jewish professionals in real estate. With its first dinner set for later this month and strong interest already building, it’s clear this isn’t just a network. It’s a movement.

There were plenty of firsts in the room: first-time Federation participants, first-time donors, first-time conversations that sparked new ideas. And behind all of it? A growing belief that being in the room—and showing up together—matters.

The message was clear: This community creates real opportunity. Professional, personal, and philanthropic.

Thanks to the vision and leadership of Jenna Jacobson, Albert Small, and the Real Estate Committee co-chairs, the morning delivered not just a conversation, but a clear step forward for this community of builders, leaders, and changemakers.

Want in? Contact Sarah Green at sarah.green@shalomdc.org to learn more.