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09 May 2025
“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 filled the room—and it wasn’t just for the strong coffee. It was a morning of insight, connection, and momentum. The energy was unmistakable. Conversations flowed, handshakes turned into new relationships, and across the room, one thing was clear: this community shows up.
Marc Duber and Dana Jacobsohn, two of the industry’s most respected voices, shared reflections on career growth, luxury development in their field, and the power of mentorship. And again and again, the conversation returned to relationships—the people you trust, who show up when it matters, who help you build something lasting.
Their foundation, they shared, has always been the Jewish community.
That idea—community as a constant—resonated well beyond the stage. You could hear it in the conversations around every table.
The morning also marked the launch of the Builders Society, a new giving level for Jewish professionals in real estate. With its first dinner set for later this month and strong interest already building, it’s clear this isn’t just a network. It’s a movement.
There were plenty of firsts in the room: first-time Federation participants, first-time donors, first-time conversations that sparked new ideas. And behind all of it? A growing belief that being in the room—and showing up together—matters.
The message was clear: This community creates real opportunity. Professional, personal, and philanthropic.
Thanks to the vision and leadership of Jenna Jacobson, Albert Small, and the Real Estate Committee co-chairs, the morning delivered not just a conversation, but a clear step forward for this community of builders, leaders, and changemakers.
Want in? Contact Sarah Green at sarah.green@shalomdc.org to learn more.
