Category: Programs & Partnerships

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.

In the wake of last month’s missile attacks in Israel, the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington has announced a new round of emergency relief grants totaling over $378,000 to help Israeli communities recover, rebuild infrastructure, and support displaced families.

Though a ceasefire is now in place, the impact of the missile strikes remains widespread. Families have been displaced, and while many schools and businesses have reopened, hundreds remain under repair. Towns previously untouched by conflict are now grappling with destruction and uncertainty. More than 9,700 Israelis have been evacuated from homes that were hit or deemed unsafe, many now living in temporary accommodations with no clear timeline for return.

Municipalities across northern Israel are stretched thin, working to maintain public safety, deliver essential services, and care for vulnerable populations. One of the most urgent issues is the lack of certified, reinforced public shelters, particularly in under-resourced communities. Mobile units—like those previously deployed in Druze towns and the Kinneret Valley Cluster (KVC)—offer limited protection and are not built to withstand the current level of threat.

In response, the Federation is directing these emergency relief funds to trusted partners meeting critical needs on the ground. These grants reflect a community-led approach: guided by lay leaders and professionals, informed by local insight, and grounded in a strategic model designed to meet both immediate and long-term recovery goals.

This effort aligns with the organization’s evolving Israel strategy—one rooted in partnership, not just philanthropy. Several of the funded initiatives emerged from ongoing work with the KVC, a diverse northern region central to its place-based investment in long-term recovery and resilience.

Expanding Civilian Protection and Infrastructure

Residents in towns like Tiberias and Beit Shean are gaining access to safe shelter through a large-scale restoration project led by Osim Shechunah, a grassroots volunteer network transforming neglected public spaces into reinforced community shelters. This project was prioritized through insights from KVC partners and aligns with Federation’s goal of strengthening vulnerable northern communities.

Public shelters are also being equipped with emergency supplies, and homebound seniors are receiving essential care and safety checks through the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), one of the Federation’s long-standing global humanitarian partners.

Relieving Pressure on Israel’s Healthcare System

Patients recovering from trauma or illness will now receive care at home via Sheba Beyond, the virtual division of Sheba Medical Center. This expansion helps alleviate the strain on hospitals like Sheba, which has taken on patients transferred from missile-damaged facilities such as Soroka Hospital.

Emergency readiness is also being bolstered in northern Israel, where Poriyah Medical Center’s trauma unit—currently operating underground—is receiving upgraded equipment. Serving the Galilee and Golan, Poriyah is a key regional provider and a strategic focus of the Federation’s Israel infrastructure investment.

Supporting Emotional Recovery and Social Stability

Displaced children and families are receiving emotional care and daily structure from teen counselors mobilized by Dror Israel, a national movement focused on education and community resilience.

Meanwhile, more than 500 people—including spouses and children of IDF reservists—will receive emotional, financial, and parenting support from HaBayit BeMiluim, which pairs trained volunteers with families facing prolonged military service and uncertainty.

Together, these emergency grants address both urgent needs and longer-term recovery. They reflect a relationship-driven approach to supporting Israeli communities through trauma, rebuilding, and resilience.

Doron Kalaf has worked with Beit Noam for more than 30 years. As Director of the Residential Program, he oversees five small apartments across Kiryat Ono, home to 25 adults with severe physical and cognitive disabilities. All use wheelchairs. All require full-time care. And none of the apartments, which are all old, rented, and unprotected, can shield them during emergencies.

So when the first missile sirens sounded in the early hours between Thursday and Friday, Doron acted immediately. He made the decision to evacuate every resident to Beit Noam’s day center, which was closed due to the war, but had one shelter large enough to house everyone.

He’s remained by their side ever since—recruiting emergency staff to provide round-the-clock care, including daytime support that doesn’t exist under normal circumstances. Some even slept on-site in difficult conditions.

“What we used to do in emergencies was just hold hands and pray,” Doron said. “This time, we had to do more. We couldn’t leave them unprotected.”

He made sure residents had everything they needed—not just physically, but emotionally. For people with intellectual disabilities, wartime can heighten anxiety and fear. Doron helped create moments of calm and routine: shared meals, music, and laughter.

His swift, courageous response transformed fear into safety and care for some of Israel’s most vulnerable residents.

How We Show Up

Beit Noam has served adults with severe disabilities for more than 40 years from its original center in a Tel Aviv suburb. When the war began, Federation connected with Beit Noam to help meet urgent needs and ensure uninterrupted care for their residents.

Our relationship with Beit Noam began long before this crisis, and it’s exactly what allowed them to respond when it mattered most. With trusted and long-standing relationships, strategic thinking, and community insight, we mobilize our partners to meet urgent needs and strengthen Jewish life—now and for what’s next.

Support the relationships and response our community depends on—donate today.

Over the past year, I have had the honor of serving as the Senior Shlicha (Israeli emissary) and head of the Israeli delegation on behalf of The Jewish Agency and the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington (JFGW). I relocated here last summer with my husband and our three children.

Our delegation of young Shlichim is the second-largest in North America, comprising 11 passionate and dedicated emissaries. This speaks to Federation’s deep commitment to meaningful Israel engagement and its recognition of the Shlichim’s vital role in building bridges between Israel and this vibrant local Jewish community.

Just last year, the Mishlachat (delegation) reached nearly 20,000 participants through more than 400 programs. Our Shlichim serve in congregations, JCCs, the Federation itself, and Makom, where one Shlicha works with individuals with disabilities. From Gaithersburg to Fairfax, our presence spans the region, reflecting our shared goal of connecting with and positively impacting the entire Greater Washington community. At the same time, we are committed to bringing the strength and solidarity of this beautiful community back to Israel.

As we finalize next year’s work plan and prepare to welcome new Shlichim to our delegation, I’ve taken time to reflect on the approaches we use to deepen the relationship between Israel and our local Jewish community.

Here are three moments that shaped my understanding of our role as Shlichim.

1. Commemorating October 7 – Pozez JCC

One of the most meaningful experiences I participated in was a commemoration event held at the Pozez JCC to mark one year since the deadly attacks on October 7. The evening included workshops focused on Israeli art and storytelling. I presented an Israeli art gallery titled Wrapping Memory, which explores life in the Gaza envelope region prior to the attacks.

During my presentation, I introduced the symbol of the red poppy—Israel’s national flower—and its layered meanings. The poppy symbolizes beauty, nature, connection to the land, and renewal. But it also represents loss and mourning. In Israel Defense Forces terminology, perach (flower) is used to refer to a fallen soldier.

Many in the audience had never encountered this symbolism before. But in that moment, they connected emotionally with something deeply Israeli.

Aha Moment:

This event reminded me of the unique power of cultural programming. Through music, art, literature, and language, we can foster shared understanding and invite meaningful conversation about Israel—without always centering politics. Even in the wake of tragedy, new spaces for dialogue and connection can emerge.

2. People-to-People Connection – A Grandmother’s Words

This next story comes from one of our Shlichim, Tamar, who led a B’nai Mitzvah program focused on Jewish and Israeli values. Families were invited to a final celebration. Afterward, a grandmother approached her and said:

“When you asked the kids what makes them feel Jewish, I realized—having you here, and what you represent, makes me feel more Jewish.”

Aha Moment:

That simple, powerful statement reminded me that genuine connection happens through people—not just programs. A Shaliach’s presence can become a living bridge between Israel and local Jewish life, deepening one’s own Jewish identity. Through relationships, conversations, and shared experiences, Shlichim create bonds that no one-time event can replace.

3. Facilitated Dialogue – Empowering Young Voices

A few months ago, I co-led a panel for young professionals from across the DMV. We discussed the complexities of modern Israeli discourse, the rise of antisemitism, and the overwhelming role of social media in shaping perceptions.

Many of the participants had grown up with an idealized image of Israel—Eretz Zavat Halav U’dvash (a land flowing with milk and honey)—and had little exposure to its complexities. Some expressed feeling insecure when faced with difficult conversations about Israel or antisemitic rhetoric. They felt unprepared and lacked the tools to speak up.

We discussed the value of open dialogue, approaching disagreement with curiosity and courage, and the importance of finding one’s voice. I shared that growing up in Israel, I was encouraged to speak up, ask questions, and stand for my beliefs. I told them: “You just need to be a little more Israeli.”

Aha Moment:

Empowering young adults to engage with Israel requires more than information—it requires confidence, resilience, and helping them find their voice. We must not only teach about Israel, but also support our community in learning how to speak about Israel—especially when it’s difficult. This is one of our goals for next year.

Thank you for the opportunity to share these reflections. As Shlichim, we are honored to walk alongside this community—to listen, to connect, and to build bridges of understanding in both directions.

As we reflect on the events unfolding in Israel, I truly believe we are living through historic moments. My hope for the coming year is that we will reunite to mark peace, not war, and that all the hostages will return home soon.

As you’re no doubt following in the news and through your personal networks, Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and drones into civilian areas across Israel in response to Israel’s efforts to degrade Iran’s nuclear capabilities. More than a dozen civilians have been killed, including children, with hundreds more injured across multiple cities. Israelis are living under constant threat and Jews around the world are watching with worry and solidarity.

What sets Iran’s attack apart is the scale and the intent, aimed at civilians rather than military targets. Israel remains focused, strategic, and aiming its attacks squarely at neutralizing immediate and long-term threats.

Even as the situation continues to unfold, one truth is clear: Israelis are once again under fire. And once again, our community is ready to respond.

Our Onward Israel participants—13 young adults from Greater Washington—have been in Israel since June 4. Following the attacks, they were moved from Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea for safety. Federation staff have been in touch with them directly, offering support, care, and connection. We are proud of their resilience and maturity in facing this moment.

Federation’s Role: Strategic, Informed, Impactful

We are in close contact with our partners on the ground in Israel and monitoring real-time updates from our Israel Office Director, who is actively guiding our response—even while navigating their own safety during attacks.

Our investments over the past two years continue to play a critical role in supporting Israelis as they respond to the new challenges being faced. Trauma response systems and municipal partnerships are operating as intended, reflecting the resilience those investments were designed to build. That said, public shelter needs are significant, and our partners—the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC)—are well-positioned to respond if additional support is needed.

Thanks to our long-term work in Israel, which strengthens education, community development, and civil institutions, and the rapid-response infrastructure of our Israel Crisis Response Allocation (ICRA), we can respond quickly, responsibly, and in partnership.

One of our newest grantees, Kinneret Valley Cluster (KVC), a regional coalition, is working around the clock in 15 communities in the North of Israel. Its CEO, Dror Lalush, is meeting with regional mayors and other executives to understand needs throughout the region. In a recent conversation, Dror expressed deep gratitude for the Federation-funded shelter that is currently enabling his staff to continue operating safely from their headquarters.

This moment underscores the value of having strong, trusted partnerships already in place before a crisis begins.

What’s Next?

We are tracking developments in real-time. As new needs surface, we’ll continue to share updates from our Israel Office and other partners. For those looking for a trusted way to support Israel right now, we are here and committed to meaningful, coordinated impact.

In moments like this, the Federation’s strength is your strength. Together, we stand committed—with resolve, resilience, and with an enduring bond between our community and the people of Israel.

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.

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.

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

“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.

This week, I had the privilege of witnessing something truly special—as I joined a group of Pre-K students from Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School on a field trip.

But this wasn’t just any field trip. Today, the group of four- and five-year-olds were reuniting with their older buddies from the Jewish Council for the Aging (JCA) Kensington Club, a program for adults with early-stage memory loss. Thanks to the Students Help and Reach Elders (SHARE) program, these friendships have bloomed since the fall, and the children could hardly wait to see their friends again.

A Shared Experience, A Lasting Bond

The purpose of the visit was to celebrate Passover – a Jewish holiday known for bringing multiple generations together.

The room buzzed with energy as everyone sang, colored, and shared stories about the holiday. Passover Bingo was a hit, and the Seder plate brought everyone together to try the traditional Passover foods. But what stood out most was the connection—the effortless ease with which the children and their older friends communicated, shared laughs, and celebrated.

More than Just a Visit

Although still young, just four or five years old, these kids truly care about their older friends.

Many of the children arrived with handmade cards, and they were eager to check in on their buddies.

The thoughtfulness and warmth in the room were palpable.

Jewish Joy in Action

Watching these interactions reminded me of what makes the Jewish community so powerful. It’s not just about the holidays—it’s about the connections we build along the way. In a room filled with laughter, stories, and shared moments, there was no hesitation, no walls, just Jewish joy in its simplest and most beautiful form.

The Jewish Federation is a proud partner with Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School and the Jewish Council for the Aging.