News & Updates from Federation

“The Most Important Zionist Act of Our Time”

Monday, September 29

Udi Eitan, Associate Director for Israel Engagement

A moving evening with Kibbutz Nir Oz leaders at the Bender JCC highlighted profound stories of loss, resilience, and rebuilding—underscoring what’s possible when grassroots partnerships like Kesher Nir Oz bring communities together across continents.

What Gives You Hope?

Friday, September 26

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Despite the challenges facing our community and country, Yom Kippur fills me with hope—because the Jewish people are built for these times, and our collective resilience can help us forge a brighter future.

L’Chaim: The Power of Showing Up Together

Monday, September 22

More than a brunch, the inaugural L’Chaim event brought together 150+ women of the Lions of Judah community for a powerful morning of storytelling, leadership, and connection—celebrating legacy, impact, and the strength of women’s philanthropy.

A Morning of Leadership and Connection in Northern Virginia

Tuesday, September 16

Nearly 40 leaders gathered at Gesher Jewish Day School for the Northern Virginia Leadership Breakfast, forging stronger bonds and laying the groundwork for a more connected and empowered Jewish community across the region.

The Future Is Built on Belonging

Friday, September 12

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

In a time of rising polarization, our community is challenged to keep the tent open. Instead of drawing sharper lines, we must choose belonging over exclusion, embracing friction as the cost of true connection and growth.

Making Room for Hope

Saturday, September 6

Nearly two years after October 7, a new video brings the first proof of life for hostage Alon Ohel. As Greater Washington prepares a Sukkah of Hope near the White House, our community refuses to forget—or give up.

Rooted in Israel, Reaching Across the DMV

Saturday, September 6

From Cambodia to Greater Washington, Hila’s journey reflects a dynamic blend of global Jewish service, cultural identity, and personal connection. As Federation’s Educational Engagement Shlicha, she’s deepening regional ties to Israel through inclusive, relational leadership.

Making Space for Ourselves

Friday, September 5

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

In a time of moral complexity and internal conflict, our community is grappling with fear, grief, and uncertainty over Israel, antisemitism, and Jewish identity. This reflection urges us to stay in relationship despite discomfort and to lead with compassion through the divides.

From Intention to Action: What the Foundation Makes Possible

Friday, August 29

Through endowments, DAFs, and collaborative funds, the Jewish Community Foundation helps donors turn values into action—building a lasting legacy of Jewish connection, resilience, and meaning.

Discovering What Motivates Us

Friday, August 29

Keren M. Waranch, Chief Development Officer

Federation’s work is built on personal stories and purpose. Whether driven by legacy, loss, or hope for the future, every connection starts with a question: What motivates you?

When Hate Shows Up in the Classroom, Federation Shows Up for Teachers

Thursday, August 28

This summer, Federation partnered with Facing History to equip 20+ educators across DC with tools to teach Holocaust history and confront antisemitism—impacting thousands of students across our region.

JShield Trainings Strengthen Our Community Partners

Saturday, August 23

With High Holidays and back-to-school season underway, JShield’s security trainings equip Northern Virginia leaders with critical tools and confidence. As Taylor M. shared, “These sessions are basically a checklist of the best ways to keep people safe.”

The Future of Jewish Leadership Begins Here

Friday, August 22

Jeremy Frisch, Associate Director, Donor Engagement

Thirteen young leaders from Greater Washington joined peers at the National Young Leadership Cabinet retreat in Denver, discovering the power of connection, philanthropy, and a national network shaping the Jewish future locally and globally.

Marilyn & Ira Polon: Building a Legacy of Jewish Continuity

Friday, August 15

Marilyn and Ira Polon share how a young couples’ event in 1971 grew into five decades of giving, leadership, and legacy with The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, rooted in Jewish identity, resilience, and a commitment to the community’s future.

Where Inclusion Happens Every Day: The Blicher Family’s Summer at Camp 

Thursday, August 14

At Lessans Camp JCC, Ethan and Bennett Blicher thrive thanks to dedicated counselors and a culture of inclusion, supported by The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and the Bender JCC.

From Joy to Impact: How Federation Fuels Jewish Camp Experiences

Friday, August 8

Federation’s Teens and Youth Working Group visited Capital Camps to see firsthand how Jewish summer camp shapes identity, nurtures mental health, and builds lifelong community—made possible through shared investment, financial aid, and strong partnerships.

To-Do: 1. Meet Natalia 2. Leave a Legacy 

Thursday, August 7

Meet Natalia Straus, Federation’s Senior Director of Legacy Giving, who is helping Greater Washington’s Jewish community plan for the future with heart, humor, and purpose—ensuring lasting impact through legacy gifts that sustain Jewish life for generations.

Prepared, Not Scared: Why JShield Trainings Matter More

Wednesday, July 30

Ahead of the High Holidays, JShield is offering community-wide security trainings across Greater Washington to boost awareness, empower individuals, and strengthen readiness against rising antisemitism—ensuring safety while celebrating together.