News & Updates from Federation

Rabbi Aderet Drucker Named Recipient of 2026 Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award

Wednesday, April 15

Rabbi Aderet Drucker named recipient of the 2026 Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award, honoring her leadership in building intentional Jewish community and fostering belonging for adults in their 20s–40s across Greater Washington.

Fostering a Culture of Security

Tuesday, April 14

As antisemitism rises, Federation’s JShield launches the Shield Program—free, role-specific security trainings designed to empower individuals and strengthen community-wide preparedness across Greater Washington.

Bringing Israel to Life “Hands-On”

Tuesday, April 14

Federation’s Hands-on Israel workshops bring Israeli culture, leadership, and identity to life through interactive programs led by shlichim, creating meaningful connections and conversations for learners of all ages.

Honoring Survivors, Every Day

Tuesday, April 14

After fleeing Belarus during World War II, Sonia rebuilt her life, endured antisemitism, and emigrated to the U.S.—now, with Federation and JSSA support, she receives vital care, connection, and dignity in her later years.

Turning Interest Into Engagement

Friday, April 10

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Turning interest into engagement by expanding access to Shabbat dinners, a powerful entry point for connection among young Jewish adults seeking meaningful, low-barrier experiences.

The Legacy of Eddie Kaplan

Tuesday, April 7

Eddie’s decades of leadership at Federation and the Jewish Community Foundation helped strengthen institutions, support community investments, and shape a thriving Greater Washington Jewish community rooted in care, vision, and lasting impact.

Reconsidering the “Wicked” Child

Tuesday, March 31

Elisa Deener-Agus, Chief of Staff, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

As Passover approaches, reflecting on the “wicked” child as a skeptic reveals the beauty of questioning—inviting challenge, broadening belonging, and strengthening a diverse Jewish community gathered around one shared table.

Holding Hope in a Time of War

Tuesday, March 31

As sirens sound across Israel, Inbal shares the emotional reality of supporting her community abroad while her family faces war at home, reflecting resilience, connection, and hope in the face of crisis.

Finding Comfort in Passover Traditions

Friday, March 27

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Amid global volatility, the familiar rhythms of the Passover Seder—family recipes, shared stories, and enduring traditions—offer comfort, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose rooted in Jewish identity and peoplehood.

Support When it Matters

Wednesday, March 25

After a direct Iranian missile strike on Beit Shemesh, Federation mobilized quickly—transforming the Zinman Community Center into a Family Support Hub providing emergency relief, psychological support, and moments of joy for impacted residents.

Community Security in Action

Tuesday, March 24

Through JShield, Federation strengthens community security—bringing together law enforcement, experts, and Jewish institutions at the Security Summit to coordinate response, share real-time information, and prepare for rising antisemitic threats.

When Antisemitism Takes Hold

Friday, March 20

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Antisemitism often emerges in times of strain, fueled by fear and exploited by bad actors. By confronting hatred directly and strengthening democratic institutions, Federation works to build resilience, foster connection, and ensure a more stable, inclusive community.

Israel & the United States at War with Iran Special Update

Wednesday, March 18

Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA)

As the war with Iran continues, Federation remains closely connected with partners across Israel and the broader Federation network. We will continue sharing updates, briefings, and recordings as new information becomes available.

The Future Is Human

Friday, March 13

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

As AI transforms everyday tools—from expense tracking to data analysis—it also reminds us of something essential: the enduring value of human connection. In a rapidly automated world, Jewish community, in-person gathering, and shared wisdom remain powerful forces for meaning and belonging.

Beit Shemesh, The City that Shaped Me

Wednesday, March 11

Yismaw, Federation community shaliach (Israeli emissary)

After a deadly Iranian missile strike on Beit Shemesh, Federation shaliach Yismaw reflects on the city that shaped him, the worry for family and friends back home, and the warmth and solidarity he has felt from the Greater Washington community during this painful time.

Meet Vanessa Sax

Wednesday, March 11

Vanessa Sax joined Federation to focus on strategy and community building in Northern Virginia, bringing experience in Jewish communal leadership and a passion for strengthening connection and belonging across the region’s Jewish community.

Building Jewish Community from Day One

Tuesday, March 10

Through a new funding opportunity, Federation invites local organizations to create programs for children ages 0–8 and their parents—helping families connect early to Jewish life, community, and one another.

Federation Mobilizes Emergency Support for Communities in Israel

Tuesday, March 10

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington approved $125,000 in emergency allocations to support medical care, trauma response, and community needs across Israel following recent attacks—part of a $250,000 emergency response mobilizing local and global partnerships.