News & Updates from Federation

Disagreement Need Not Mean Distance

Friday, February 20

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Amid political polarization, antisemitism, and deepening debates about Israel, Federation reflects on what we owe our community now—building durable bridges, engaging the full range of voices, and strengthening connection to Jewish life, Israel, and one another.

How should Jewish organizations respond to the growing criticism of Israel from inside our communities?

Friday, February 20

New surveys from Jewish Federations of North America and Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston reveal widening divides over Zionism, especially among younger Jews — prompting a call for expansive, inclusive Zionism that embraces debate while reaffirming commitment to a Jewish and democratic Israel.

From Fragmentation to Framework: A Regional Leadership Conversation

Thursday, February 19

Lois Kimmel, Director of Convening, Leadership and Learning

As leaders navigate belonging and boundaries, safety and pluralism, Federation and the Shalom Hartman Institute convened more than 60 senior and emerging leaders for a candid conversation on holding complexity with clarity to strengthen Jewish life across Greater Washington.

Disability Inclusion Is a Journey: Partnering to Expand Access and Belonging at the Capital Jewish Museum

Thursday, February 19

Lisa Handelman, Director, Inclusion & Belonging

On September 12, 2025, the Federation’s Disability Inclusion Advisory Group visited the Capital Jewish Museum, engaging in thoughtful dialogue to strengthen access and belonging across Jewish institutions in Greater Washington and advance inclusion as a shared community value.

Strengthening Jewish Life While Confronting Hate

Friday, February 13

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Responding to Bret Stephens’ State of World Jewry address at 92NY, this reflection explores whether the Jewish community should prioritize fighting antisemitism or investing in Jewish education—arguing that we must strengthen Jewish identity and joy while also confronting hate head-on.

Where Jewish Belonging Takes Root, for Generations

Wednesday, February 11

Through a new endowment with the Jewish Community Foundation, Rhea Schwartz is investing in Jewish summer camp—helping more children experience the belonging that shaped her life and ensuring camps remain safe, welcoming spaces for generations to come.

From Intention to Action: What JDAIM Is Teaching Our Community About Inclusion

Tuesday, February 10

Lisa Handelman, Director, Inclusion & Belonging

This JDAIM, we reflect on how Jewish organizations are moving from good intentions to sustainable systems of inclusion for young adults with disabilities—turning learning into action across the region.

Reclaiming Agency, Together

Friday, February 6

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

After a recent trip to Israel, Gil reflects on a shared sense of powerlessness felt by Israelis, Palestinians, and many in our own community—and argues that reclaiming personal and collective agency is essential to pushing forward and strengthening Jewish life in uncertain times.

First to Go Out, Last to Return

Monday, February 2

Udi Eitan, Associate Director for Israel Engagement

Rani Gvili, a 24-year-old Israeli hero, gave his life defending Kibbutz Alumim on October 7. Months later, he was finally brought home—marking the end of an excruciating chapter for Israel, the hostages’ families, and Jewish communities worldwide who fought tirelessly for their return.

Finding Light: Ori’s Journey as a Shlicha in Greater Washington

Monday, February 2

Ori, a Federation shlicha (Israeli emissary), brings Israel to life for kids and families across Greater Washington with honesty and heart—sharing its complexities, creativity, and joy through Federation’s Shlichim Program and hands-on educational experiences.

When hate tried to destroy, you helped rebuild

Monday, February 2

After an antisemitic arson attack at Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, 222 donors from Greater Washington raised nearly $35,000 to support its restoration—proving the enduring strength of collective giving and Jewish community resilience.

A Reflection from Israel

Friday, January 30

Robin Hettleman Weinberg, President, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Standing in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square as the final hostage was returned, Federation’s president reflects on resilience, sorrow, and the healing work supported by our community and partners across Israel.

How Do I Support My Disabled Child With Bar Mitzvah Prep?

Friday, January 30

Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, Senior Director of Youth and Family Education, Central Synagogue for PJ Library

For families with children who have learning disabilities or unique needs, traditional B’nai Mitzvah ceremonies may feel out of reach. But Jewish tradition allows for meaningful, personalized celebrations—because becoming B’nai Mitzvah is about age, not performance.

Helping Our Community Access NSGP Security Funding

Tuesday, January 27

With $300M in federal NSGP funding available, Federation’s JShield program helps Jewish institutions navigate the complex grant process—bringing over $5.25M in security funding to our region in 2025 alone.

Your Support in Action: Expanding Hospice Care in Northern Virginia

Tuesday, January 27

JSSA is expanding its trusted hospice care to Northern Virginia, with support from Federation and community donors—bringing compassionate, high-quality end-of-life care to more families in our growing region.

Bringing Israel Closer to Home

Tuesday, January 27

Hands-On Israel, led by Federation’s community shlichim, brings dynamic, personal Israel engagement to synagogues, schools, and JCCs across Greater Washington through story-driven workshops that spark connection, curiosity, and conversation.

Thinking About What Truly Shapes Jewish Life

Friday, January 23

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

What if the key to a stronger Jewish future lies not in new ideas, but in scaling what already works? Federation explores how proven experiences—like camp, Israel trips, and Shabbat dinners—can drive lasting impact and connection in our community.

Our Moment to Lead

Friday, January 23

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Gathering with Jewish foundation and Federation leaders, we focused on bold strategies to fight antisemitism, build pluralistic community, and strengthen Jewish life through collaboration and shared purpose.