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About Us

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What We Do

We bring people, resources, and organizations together to meet urgent needs and open new pathways for Jewish connection, learning, and action.

Guided by data, deep relationships, and community priorities, we direct resources where they can make the greatest impact—caring for individuals, strengthening institutions, and securing our collective future.

Together, we build a community that is strong, connected, and resilient for generations to come.

Our Mission & Vision

We strive to inspire, build, and sustain vibrant Jewish life in a changing world by mobilizing our community in common purpose, intentional innovation, and effective action.

We envision an open, connected, and vibrant Jewish community that cares for each other, fosters Jewish learning and journeys, embraces Jewish peoplehood and Israel, and acts as a force for good in the world.

Explore Our Impact

Fast Facts

  • 7,500 +

    students engaged through Hillels

  • ~ 10,500

    children receive Jewish books and programs through PJ Library¼ and PJ Our Wayℱ

  • 28 %

    of vibrant Jewish life funding strengthens Jewish life in NoVA

Our Core Values

Group of people chatting with each other at Federation's Cornerstone event.

Leadership

We lead with commitment to our community

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Collaboration

We work together to create a better world

A volunteer comforting a man.

Compassion

We respond with care

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Respect

We respect diverse perspectives

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Trust

We build trust with transparency

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Purpose

We evolve with a clear sense of purpose

As our region evolves, so does our approach—reimagining how people find each other, access resources, and create meaningful change together. Whether you're new to the area or deeply rooted, there's a place for you here. Welcome home!
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Families with Children

Explore joyful Jewish experiences for your family—whether you’re lighting Shabbat candles or finding your first Jewish preschool.

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Business & Leadership

Meet and grow with Jewish professionals through exclusive networking, mentorship, and learning opportunities.

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Jewish Education

From early childhood to adult learning, we support inclusive, lifelong Jewish education and engagement.

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Women’s Philanthropy

Join a powerful network of Jewish women making an impact through giving, learning, and community action.

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Events

Find your place! Connect through community celebrations, learning, volunteerism, and more.

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Careers

Make an impact while working alongside passionate, purpose-driven Jewish community leaders.

Explore open positions

Join Us at an Upcoming Event

Women’s Philanthropy Fall Community Gatherings
Women’s Philanthropy Fall Community Gatherings
  • Across Greater Washington

  • Sunday, October 19

Women’s Philanthropy Coffee & Conversation
Women’s Philanthropy Coffee & Conversation
  • McLean, VA

  • Thursday, October 23

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Resetting the Table Part One of Two
  • Zoom

  • Monday, October 27

Federation’s Next Gen’s Flash Philanthropy
Federation’s Next Gen’s Flash Philanthropy
  • Washington, DC

  • Wednesday, October 29

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For the Sake of the Argument
  • Zoom

  • Wednesday, October 29

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Resetting the Table Part Two of Two
  • Zoom

  • Monday, November 3

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For the Sake of the Argument
  • The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

  • Friday, November 7

The Washington, D.C. area is home to the third-largest Jewish community in the country—a community that began more than 200 years ago. As it grew, dozens of Jewish social service agencies emerged to meet evolving needs. Today, the landscape looks very different. But through every shift in our region and around the world, we’ve remained focused on two enduring commitments: strengthening Jewish identity and caring for those in need.
Date 1929

Formation of the Jewish Welfare Association to unify Washington’s charitable agencies

Date 1939

Affiliation with the national United Jewish Appeal, focusing on Europe and Israel

Date 1976

Renamed UJA Federation of Greater Washington to reflect expanded local and global fundraising

Date 1999

Rebranded as The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington to reflect our broad and integrated mission

Date 2022

The United Jewish Endowment Fund (UJEF) becomes the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Washington