Category: Leadership & Philanthropy

Despite the vital role women and girls play in building strong, resilient communities, philanthropic funding continues to fall dramatically short. Organizations serving women and girls received only 2.2%^  of total charitable dollars in 2020.

The Fund for Women and Girls exists to help close that critical gap.

Powered by The Jewish Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, the Fund channels collective giving into multi-year, trust-based partnerships to transform conditions for women and girls here in Greater Washington and in Israel.

The Fund for Women and Girls is more than a force for change—it’s showing how Jewish philanthropy can come together to make a lasting impact.

Over the last 18 months, the Fund has supported Israeli women and girls through three rounds of grants and multiple learning sessions. Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth—with a goal of raising $1 million this summer, and ultimately $3 million, to ensure we can continue driving change where it’s needed most.

We’re proud to share that momentum is already building.  To date, we’ve secured more than $500,000 in multi-year commitments, with $140,000 already transferred to the Fund. We invite you to join us—at any level—as continue to expand the Fund’s reach.

“Now is the moment to invest in women and girls—because when they thrive, whole communities rise,” explains Dr. Jannah Yutkovitz, Senior Director of Philanthropic Impact at the Jewish Community Foundation. “Supporting a fund of this nature helps fuel solutions that are bold and urgently needed. Through developing long-term partnerships with organizations on the ground, we’re not just supporting solutions—we’re investing in resilience and have the opportunity to make a generational impact.”

To help propel this growth, Carol and Gary Berman have made an exceptional three-year, $300,000 commitment to the Fund to honor the extraordinary leadership of their daughter-in-law Emily Berman, a founding member of the Fund’s steering committee.

“Women and girls are in the forefront of being there to provide what’s necessary and critical for those in need. In the case of Israel, they are also holding the families together through war and the tragic losses as a result of war. As a family, we recognize the importance of women’s voices and actions, as well as the remarkable contributions they make to our world. We feel very grateful to be able to support this fund,” Carol and Gary shared.

Carol and Gary are inviting nine additional individuals to match their commitment and join them in a small minyan of major donors who will seed the Fund with $3 million over the next three years. To learn more, please reach out to sara.brenner@shalomdc.org..

The Fund for Women and Girls reflects what’s possible when community comes together with shared purpose and deep commitment. It was created in response to a clear and urgent gap—and it continues to grow as more people recognize the power of long-term, collective investment in women and girls.

As the Fund looks ahead, our focus remains the same: to shift conditions, elevate voices, and invest in meaningful change—locally and in Israel.

^Jewish Funders Network “The Complete Guide to Promote Gender Equity through Strategic Philanthropy” (2025)

Sometimes, it takes stepping into a space to truly understand what our donations make possible.

I invite you to do just that through our Impact in Action series: immersive experiences that offer a firsthand look at the real lives touched by your generosity—how your philanthropy becomes belonging, community, and joy.

On July 23, we will experience the definition of Jewish joy – camp. Together, we will be visiting one of the many Jewish summer camps that Federation supports – where children of all abilities are embraced, celebrated, and empowered to embrace Jewish identity and have the time of their lives. You’ll hear from staff, meet campers, and see what it means to build a Jewish future rooted in inclusion and love. Register today.

On September 3 (save the date!), we’ll explore how your donations create and strengthen our local community’s connection with Israel and Israelis. We’ll be joined by a delegation from Hillel Israel to build bridges, dialogue and understanding.

And in November, we’ll come together with one of our partner agencies to prepare meals by the thousands for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity and homelessness. It’s sacred work—hands-on, heart-forward, and grounded in our deepest values.

These are more than just experiences; these are invitations to witness your impact. Come see what we’re building—and feel the difference you make.

Your generosity makes all of this possible. And when we show up to see it in action, our commitment deepens.

On Wednesday, I had the honor of joining fellow lay and professional leaders from Greater Washington—alongside hundreds more from 100+ Jewish communities across the country—for the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA)’s Emergency Leadership Mission: United for Security on Capitol Hill.

As JFNA CEO Eric Fingerhut so powerfully said, “The power of today is our unity.”

I felt that unity profoundly. It gave me strength and deepened my pride in being Jewish—and in serving our community through the work of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.

Building Security Through Advocacy

Throughout the day, I met leaders from every corner of Jewish life. We come from different backgrounds, attend different kinds of synagogues—or none at all. We live in diverse communities, hold a wide range of political beliefs, and may disagree on many issues. And yet, we stood united by a shared purpose: ensuring that our Jewish communities have the security and resources to live freely and safely as Jews. To celebrate simchas (joyful Jewish lifecycle events). To attend school. To pray. To observe our holidays. To mourn. All without fear.

Together, we called on Congress to expand the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)—a vital source of support for Jewish institutions nationwide. Locally, our JShield initiative helps schools, synagogues, and other organizations apply for these funds and turn them into real-world security upgrades. It’s one of the many ways we’re investing in safety—not just through dollars, but through expertise, coordination, and partnership.

A Memorable Capitol Hill Moment

One moment captured the spirit of the day perfectly: a group of us—lay leaders and professionals from Greater Washington, Baltimore, and Annapolis—were racing to make it to our meeting with Jonathan Lord, the new national security advisor to Senator Angela Alsobrooks. The usual route was closed, so we had to get creative. After some quick coordination (and a little begging), I found a staffer named Zane who helped us access the restricted train that runs between the House and Senate buildings. Thanks to Zane, we arrived just in time. The meeting was incredibly productive, especially the conversation with Alsobrooks’s new national security advisor, Jonathan Lord, who, as it happens, is Jewish.

It wasn’t just a logistical workaround. It was a reminder that behind every policy win and funding decision is a relationship, a human moment, a door opened.

And sometimes, that connection comes with VIP access to the underground Senate train—complete with a new friend named Zane.

Strength in Collective Action

We came together with a single goal: to keep our communities safe. We showed up to tell our stories—diverse, personal, and deeply rooted in Jewish life—and to affirm our determination to live proudly and securely as Jews, even in the face of rising antisemitism and new threats unlike any we’ve experienced in the U.S., and certainly not in Washington, DC.

I’m especially grateful to Guila Franklin Siegel, one of our partners at the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Greater Washington, who led many of the day’s meetings with clarity, purpose, and a deep understanding of what’s at stake. Her reflections capture the urgency and solidarity of the moment beautifully.

Why I Returned to Federation

It’s been nearly six months since I returned to Federation. I came back for many reasons. I believe in the power of philanthropy—what becomes possible when people give generously and collectively to drive meaningful change. I love the Jewish community, and I especially love the Jewish community here in Greater Washington. I moved here with purpose, like so many others, at 23 years old. Nearly 30 years later, I feel more at home here than ever.

This week gave me renewed hope that we will get through this challenging time—so long as we do it together.

Our unity is our strength. Now more than ever, it’s up to all of us to show up, speak out, and invest in the security and resilience of Jewish life—for ourselves and for generations to come.

Let’s keep moving forward—together.

A community like ours—bold, diverse, ever evolving—deserves a leadership model that reflects who we are and where we’re going.

That’s why, over the past two years, we’ve approached this work with deep intention: reimagining our governance model to reflect our values, our community, and our future. This change is the result of careful listening, learning, and collaboration across our leadership and community—rooted in where we’ve been and designed for where we’re headed.

Not just for efficiency. Not for optics. But to create a true culture of belonging—where more people have more ways to show up, speak out, and shape what comes next.

Here’s what’s new:

• A smaller, sharper Governing Board, focused on Federation’s strength and strategy.
• A new Community Leadership Council (CLC): a powerhouse group of 70–80 leaders, connectors, and changemakers bringing the voice of the community to the table.
• A renewed commitment to data-informed decision-making, gathering broad community insight, analyzing what we learn, and acting with clarity and purpose.

This is not a departure from who we are—it’s a step toward who we’re becoming.

More voices. Smarter choices. Stronger Community

A foundation built for action, not reaction.

Federation remains committed to strengthening the connective tissue of Jewish Greater Washington—fostering deeper collaboration among synagogues, agencies, and institutions to meet this moment and build what’s next. That’s how we create lasting belonging.

Because our future deserves bold ideas, shared ownership, and a leadership model that leads like our community: diverse, passionate, and deeply invested.

Curious who’s leading the way? Take a closer look at our evolving leadership team.

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!”

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.

“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.

Last week, I had the privilege of joining 20 Ruby Lions—extraordinary women who contribute $10,000 or more annually to the Jewish Federation—for a day trip to New York City. The day was filled with meaningful experiences that brought Jewish life to light and deepened our connections as a community. These women, each a leader in her own right, came together to learn, share, and make a powerful impact.

We kicked off the day bright and early, bonding on the bus ride up. Conversations flowed effortlessly, and friendships blossomed between old friends and new faces alike. It was the perfect way to start a truly special day.

A Day of Inspiration at the Jewish Museum

As we approached Museum Mile on the Upper East Side, anticipation filled the air. Our first stop was the Jewish Museum, which had graciously opened its doors just for our group. We were about to embark on an exclusive private tour of the “Queen Esther in the Age of Rembrandt” exhibit, and it felt like the perfect place to begin.

For these extraordinary women, the story of Queen Esther resonated deeply. The exhibit wasn’t just an opportunity to learn about an ancient heroine—it was a chance to reflect on their own strength and leadership. It was an invitation to see themselves in Esther’s courage and to recognize the power of their own voices in shaping the future.

Real Conversations, Real Impact: Zionism and Antisemitism

After our tour, we gathered for a delicious kosher lunch at Lox, where Amanda Berman, founder of Zioness Movement, led a thought-provoking conversation about Zionism. For Amanda, Zionism isn’t a political stance; it’s a defining part of Jewish identity. Her words challenged us to think about the rise of antisemitism and how, as Jews, we must actively combat it.

She urged us to step outside of our circles, reach out to non-Jews, and have the difficult conversations needed to break down barriers and build understanding. Amanda’s message was clear and powerful: We must go beyond the walls of our community, speak up, and act. It was a call to not just talk about change, but to be the change, in our own lives and in the world around us.

Building Community, Supporting One Another

Our second stop was a visit with Martine Fleischman, a UJA New York leader, at Met Council, the service arm of UJA Federation New York. We toured their state-of-the-art online food pantry system, which serves more than 200,000 people annually. The innovative system allows individuals to choose food based on health and cultural preferences, connecting them with legal aid and other vital services. This visit was a powerful reminder that community support isn’t just about providing resources—it’s about empowering individuals to make decisions that honor their dignity and needs.

Art with Purpose: Jojo Anavim’s Commitment to Change

Next, we visited the studio of Jojo Anavim, a Persian-American Sephardic artist whose work is deeply rooted in his Jewish heritage. Jojo’s art is infused with his connection to Judaism, with each piece bearing a blessing on the back. After 10/7, Jojo generously donated all proceeds from his art sales for the first three months to support emergency relief efforts in Israel. He continues to use his platform to raise awareness about the rising tide of antisemitism and was instrumental in promoting the NOVA exhibit in NYC. Jojo’s unwavering support for Israel and his community shows how art can inspire action and foster positive change.

Strengthening Jewish Life on Campus

We wrapped up the day with a delicious kosher dinner at Malka, joined by Brian Cohen, Executive Director of Columbia/Barnard Hillel. Brian shared his commitment to supporting Jewish students at Columbia University, helping them navigate antisemitism, build strong Jewish identities, and advocate for themselves in a challenging environment. His words reinforced how essential it is to create safe spaces for young Jewish leaders, and how the work we do as a community has a direct, meaningful impact on their experiences.

A Day of Connection, Learning, and Empowerment

The trip was more than just a day away—it was a powerful reminder of the strength of community, the importance of connection, and the incredible impact we can have when we come together. These Ruby Lions, whose leadership and generosity shape our future, left the trip with a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger commitment to making a difference. Together, we’re building a brighter future for Jewish life, one action at a time.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]