In some ways, our work is timeless. No matter the era, no matter the year, we are here to leverage our unique vantage point as a Federation to strengthen Jewish life. Yet, this is an iterative process. With each generation, we need to look anew at our communal offerings and ensure that everyone can experience the profound meaning and sense of belonging that should come standard with Jewish identity.

In this way, our work is time sensitive. As a Federation, we use a wide-angle lens to take stock of what is unfolding globally, in Israel, and in our community to assess where and how we can apply ourselves to maximum effect. That’s what we’re up to now.

For the past several months, our leadership has been immersed in our strategic planning process. We have reached the end of one cycle, closing out a set of priorities that saw us through the last eight years, and are now preparing to identify the priorities that will carry us through a new phase of work.

We already have the wind at our back: we are entering this new phase armed with data and insights from our latest community impact survey, our 200-person listening tour through the Community Leadership Council, and expansive 1:1 and small group conversations that we have conducted across our community.

You have told us—and we feel deeply passionate ourselves—that Jewish life must be accessible, safe, and rooted in meaningful connections. Our community members want to better integrate Judaism into their daily lives. We want our institutions to be responsive and there for people in need. We want to feel that regardless of our means, life stage, or views about local politics or Israel, we are welcome. And we want to feel safe and secure individually and as a Jewish community.

Heard, heard, and heard. While our final plan won’t be ready to share until the spring, it is clear that safety, accessibility, and belonging will play prominent roles in guiding our new strategic direction.

That said, I want to take this opportunity to give you the floor. I want to hear from you about what Jewish life needs most. What matters to you? What inspires you? What new effort do you think deserves attention or support? If there is one thing you would want to see Federation undertake over the next 5-10 years, what would it be? I encourage you to consider these questions and email me with your response.

Thank you in advance for your thoughts. I look forward to sharing more about Federation’s plans to make the most of our distinct role in this distinct moment.