Tzachi’s Reflections

"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

"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

This week, as Israel marks its 77th year of independence and honors the memories of those who fought for its existence, we also remember the lives lost to terror attacks

By Natalia Straus, Director, Donor Engagement, Women's Philanthropy 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

By Avi, Federation Shaliach Credit: Times of Israel Major Chen Buchris, Deputy Commander of the Maglan Unit, was a brave and stoic warrior and leader. He dedicated his entire being

By Abraham, Federation Community Shaliach Guy Illouz was murdered when he was 26 years old. He was born and raised in Raanana, a town in the center of Israel. Guy

By Maya, Shlicha, Rockville Credit: Israel National News I met Roei during our gap year in Israel at Mechinat Rabin. We were in the same group, which basically meant we

As we move forward from Yom HaShoah, we are reminded of the importance of reflecting on our shared history and the profound strength of our Jewish community. The stories of

It is a radical understatement to say that we live in interesting and challenging times. Increasing divisions and disagreements in the United States, in Israel, and around the world are

By Jamie Neumann, Third-Generation Holocaust Survivor April 24 is Yom Hashoah, Israel’s Holocaust Remembrance Day. We are reaching a pivotal time in Holocaust storytelling. There is an unprecedented amount of

As someone who is not Catholic, I nevertheless have found myself deeply moved and inspired by the leadership of Pope Francis. While I disagreed with many specific issues, his commitment

As we conclude Passover and approach Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), we are reminded of the profound significance of both holidays. Passover calls us to reflect on freedom—the freedom our

With Passover approaching, we are reminded of its timeless relevance—a season of reflection that evolves with each year, shaped by the challenges and hopes of the moment. That’s what makes

By David Yaffe, Chairman of Federation's Security Advisory Board “Security starts with us in the community.” This was the message delivered by Captain Ian Clark of the Montgomery County Police

By Sarah Klein, Senior Director of Donor Engagement This week, I had the privilege of witnessing something truly special—as I joined a group of Pre-K students from Milton Gottesman Jewish

So, What IS Community Development, Really? That’s the question we posed to our esteemed panel at our first-ever Northern Virginia-focused Federation Network event for Jewish business professionals on Friday, March

The Phyllis Margolius Family Foundation is thrilled to announce that Jennifer Scher has been named as the recipient of the 2025 Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award. Scher was selected

As we confront the challenges of rising antisemitism, federal layoffs, and the well-being of those around us, I am continuously inspired by how our community steps up to support one

For many older adults, loneliness is a daily struggle. A 2023 study found that one in four adults worldwide experience feelings of isolation. But a new and innovative music program

As the impact of recent and looming federal layoffs ripple through our community, the Federation is stepping up to ensure that no one must navigate this hardship alone. Through the

On March 19, 2025, more than 70 community members gathered at Har Shalom for the second event in the Combating Antisemitism series, focused on recognizing and addressing antisemitism in the

Something that has resonated throughout all of my experiences this week is a sense of agency — the power to act, make choices, and influence outcomes. Even, or perhaps especially,

Federation named Helenka Shy as its new Chief Communications Officer on March 10, 2025. As Chief Communications Officer, Helenka will be responsible for Federation’s strategic communications, brand amplification, and cross-functional

On Monday, March 3rd, I had the privilege of joining many of you in celebrating seven exceptional leaders in our community: Alma Gildenhorn, Carol & Gary Berman, Sophie & Bradley

Rachel and Pete are transformational supporters of the Jewish community in Greater Washington, with a particular focus on young families, Jewish education, and support for Israel. Pete has served on

Sophie and Bradley are dynamic leaders driving Next Gen engagement in Jewish life. They have launched and supported numerous programs, empowering young Jewish adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s

Carol and Gary’s philanthropic impact spans sectors and generations of Jewish community, healthcare community, and education in the US and Israel.  Gary has been involved with the The Jewish Federation

Alma’s dedication to Jewish community affairs and civic causes has set an example for volunteer leadership for six decades. Her first major involvement was with the Hebrew Home of Greater

This week, we watched, as a young father had to do the unthinkable — eulogize his wife and two young children. Yarden Bibas asked his wife to watch over him

This has been a hard week.   Yesterday, we first received the devastating confirmation of a nightmare many of us had long feared — two young children, Ariel and Kfir

By Lisa Handelman, Federation's Inclusion & Belonging Specialist What happens when campers with disabilities grow up? Since February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion month (JDAIM), I decide to

On March 3rd, Federation will hold its second Cornerstone event celebrating our community’s unique spirit and our enduring capacity for leadership and impact. Greater Washington plays a crucial role in

Over the past few weeks, there have been a series of reports and announcements about potential and proposed programmatic and funding changes at the local, state, and Federal levels. Some

My heart breaks with the news of the horrific plane crash near Reagan National Airport late Wednesday night. May the memories of those lost in this unthinkable incident forever be

After news of the hostage deal broke on Wednesday, I joined friends from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum for an impromptu, incredible celebration. After more than 465 days of

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington welcomes the news of a hostage agreement today that will see the release of dozens of hostages from Gaza after more than 465 days

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Jewish Community Foundation is proud to highlight some of the exceptional work led by and in support of Jews of

By Sara Brenner, Executive Director, Jewish Community Foundation Just one week after sharing ways we as a Jewish community can support those impacted by Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton has left

I know all of our thoughts have been with those in Los Angeles. The wildfire destruction, including the loss of several lives and of the historic Pasadena Jewish Temple and

By Sara Brenner, Executive Director, Jewish Community Foundation It is heartbreaking to witness the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area, which are impacting so many, including our own friends

I hope your new year is off to a great start. Many thanks, again, to all of you who gave to Federation’s Annual Campaign. I’ll have updated numbers to share

As Chief Development Officer, Keren will build and drive Federation’s financial resource development, and elevate fundraising strategy, systems, and relationships. Keren’s work will focus on advancing and diversifying resource development

Last week, I sat down for another conversation with some of our donors and local Hillel directors. It’s been a privilege this year to have so many in-depth discussions with

As this year draws to a close, I’ve been thinking a lot about unity. Many of us are eager to be part of a community strong enough to address the

Reflections on The Jewish Studio’s Civil Rights Trip, sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington By Lisa Handelman There is something haunting about a pair of empty shoes, especially

December is the final month of Federation’s Annual Campaign — but it’s more than fundraising for me. Right now, I’m having some of my favorite conversations with Federation’s donors. This

I spent much of this week in Israel, where I had the privilege of meeting with friends and colleagues across the country. It was an honor to represent our community

I write to you as I conclude my visit across southern Israel and begin traveling north. Over the past day, I’ve met with members of kibbutzim that were invaded on

I spent the beginning of the week attending JFNA’s General Assembly, alongside a couple of thousand of Jewish leaders from across North America. The highlights? Our Federation and the Hostages

Late last night in Amsterdam, anti-Israel mobs terrorized and beat Israelis and Jews after a soccer game. The images are horrifying. This modern-day pogrom took place two days before the

Over Sukkot, my family and I had the pleasure of hosting Federation leaders to hear from the Hillel directors of American University, George Washington University, and the University of Maryland

It might be an unusual take, but Yom Kippur is my favorite holiday. I enjoy the meaning and prayers and welcome the chance for personal reflection and being together in

By Sara Brenner, Executive Director, Jewish Community Foundation Just one week after sharing ways we as a Jewish community can support those impacted by Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton has left

On Monday night, it wasn’t just the music or the speakers that moved me — it was the overwhelming sense of community as we marked October 7th together. Whether in

Since October 7th, being a Jew outside of Israel has been a rollercoaster of emotions — swinging between deep grief and immense pride. We mourn the lives lost, but we

This summer, I was privileged to teach and study at the only Reform Jewish Day School in Australia. I learned a lot about this interesting, vibrant, Zionist Jewish community on

As tensions with Lebanon escalate, I want to update you on what Federation is doing and share a story about one of our partners in Israel. As you know, Hezbollah

I want to tell you about a phone call from Yoni, a University of Pittsburgh senior who happens to be my son. It was a regular Friday evening over Labor

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and Makom (formerly the Jewish Foundation for Group Homes) are excited to announce today that they will become joint owners of the Federation building

As we approach one year since October 7th, each It’s Friday will focus on how our community continues to make a difference for Israel and Israelis. This week, I’ve asked

I was grateful to have a shared space on Tuesday night to mourn the devastating murder of six more hostages. It is a privilege for us at Federation and our

We are devastated by the news that Hamas has killed six more hostages. Among these heart-breaking losses was Israeli American Hersh Goldberg-Polin. Hersh was generously shared with us by the

Few people are more attuned to the challenges facing Israel and Israelis today than Dr. Tal Becker, Vice President and Senior Faculty at the Shalom Hartman Institute and Legal Adviser

We celebrate the rescue of Farhan al-Qadi after 326 days held hostage by Hamas. As we and al-Qadi’s community welcome him home, we remain committed to supporting the evolving situation

Thanks to Federation’s new Vice President of Financial Resource Development, Jill Granader, for filling in for me last week with her thoughtful message. If you missed it, read it here.

The sharp rise in the need for trauma services quickly overwhelmed the Israeli mental health system after October 7th. Support from Greater Washington is directly expanding services to help those

I am thrilled to be the new Vice President of Financial Resource Development at The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. Prior to this role, I was the President of the

Hagai Dagan Schlachter, former Senior Shaliach of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington For the past three years, I have had the honor and privilege to serve as the Senior

Sunrise Israel, a grantee of Federation’s Israel Crisis Relief Fund, was founded in 2010 to bring joy and normalcy to children battling cancer and their families. At Sunrise, summer was

Romi Gonen is a vivacious 23-year-old who loves life, music, travel, and leopard print. She is also one of the estimated 116 hostages still in Gaza 10 months after October

I’ve been consuming a wide variety of news and media this summer. Between developments in Israel and Gaza and an already-historic presidential election season, I have found myself devouring anything

Last weekend, I joined colleagues from Federations and other Jewish organizations to discuss the evolving challenges facing Israelis and Israeli society following October 7th, the continuing wars with Hamas and

Earlier this week, I had lunch with some of Federation’s generous donors and leaders, as I often do. This time, however, we were surrounded by the laughter, song, and joy

Washington, DC, July 11, 2024 --- The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington is pleased to announce its receipt of a $250,000 early childhood security grant from The Tepper Foundation through

Federation and PJ Library are highlighting the excellent options local families have for religious schools. Please help us by completing the form below so we can include your school. The

Writing to you a little early this week ahead of the holiday. I’m looking forward to celebrating with family and friends tomorrow, and hope you are too. Of course, my

As I shared during our Annual Meeting, it increasingly feels like the ground is shifting beneath our feet. Questions about the place and future of the Jewish community in America

We're so glad you're joining other Greater Washington Community Leaders, professionals, and clergy on an adventure to see the magic and impact of Jewish camp firsthand. Register for one or

I’m thankful for the many community members who joined Federation on Tuesday for our Annual Meeting. The evening of music and art was quite unlike others we’ve hosted and was

As we prepare to celebrate the holiday of Shavuot, the feast of weeks, that celebrates the receiving of the 10 Commandments as well as the spring harvest, we are honored

Last week, Federation hosted one of our incredible grantees from Israel – a nonprofit called Shaharit, funded by our Israel Crisis Relief Fund. They brought together Jews and Arabs from

This time of year, you can feel the energy throughout our community. It’s marked by warmer weather, graduations, the countdown to summer camp, and my personal favorite – tending to

The Jewish Women’s Collective Response Fund, a new effort led by the Hadassah Foundation and Elluminate, is awarding grants of $25,000 each to support, elevate and empower Israeli women in

I write today from Mexico City, where I am traveling with Federation’s Jewish Community Leaders Program to explore this vibrant Jewish community. Though the mission has been wonderful, today’s news from Israel was sobering:

Starting Sunday night, Israel and the Jewish people will observe Yom HaZikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day, followed by a celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. These holidays are moments to

A reflection from Avi, Federation Shaliach, Potomac In my initial month working on a ship, facing my first major challenge wasn’t something I had anticipated so soon. Despite over three

It’s Friday, and like so many in our community, I have been closely watching the alarming pro-Palestinian protests that erupted on way too many college campuses this past week, including

A reflection from Snir, Federation Shaliach, Kensington, MD “This joy mixed with sadness, is, in a way, the essence of Israeli life.” Time moves faster than we think. It's already

A reflection from Avia, Federation's Educational Engagement Shlicha Yom Hazikaron (Israeli National Remembrance Day), 2019. I’m in the Chabad house in Delhi, India. I had just gotten here. I wasn’t

A reflection from Dean, Federation Shaliach, Northern VA Until now, I’ve never worn a Jewish symbol in public. I don’t wear a Kippah; I don’t have a necklace with my

A reflection from Abraham, Federation Shaliach, Germantown As we approach the time to commemorate the lives lost on Yom Hazikaron (Israeli National Remembrance Day) and celebrate Yom Haazmaut (Israeli Independence

It’s Friday, and I want to share a few thoughts from the week. As news reports began to spread late last night that Israel had attacked Iran in response to

Shortly following October 7th, Federation Israel Crisis Relief Fund supported organizations providing emergency response throughout Israel. Part of our community’s support provided funds to Dror Israel to aid evacuation efforts

It’s Friday, and I have a new format for sharing my takeaways from this week. One highlight for me was seeing the eclipse — did you? It really was spectacular.

On April 3rd, Federation was proud to welcome Professor Itzik Kreiss, Director General of Sheba Medical Center, to Washington DC to speak to us about our ongoing partnership in Israel.

Hello from Argentina and Uruguay. This week, I have been traveling with 30 incredible women from our local community as part of Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy mission to this beautiful and

On April 7th, it will be six months since we all woke up that Saturday morning to the horrors of Hamas’ brutal and unimaginable terrorist attack on Israel. Our Jewish

Last week, I reached out to you for suggestions on how Federation and the Jewish community could navigate the uncertain path ahead. Thank you so much to the many people

Executive Director at the University of Maryland Hillel and  2024 Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award recipient  “It is profoundly humbling to be chosen as the recipient of this prestigious award,

Never again will our community be blessed with the presence of Nesse Godin, z”l, who passed away on March 5th. Nesse survived the Holocaust as a child, thanks to the