| | |
From Family to Fellow Believers: A Message from Gil Preuss
Two weeks ago, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington’s Congregational Shlichim Program was honored by The Jewish Agency for Israel. The program, which places Israeli young adults in schools, synagogues, and summer camps, was recognized as one of the most effective efforts of its kind in helping local community members learn from and connect with Israelis. Jewish communities across the country are placing greater emphasis on building personal connections between community members, Israel, and, more importantly, Israelis. This type of programming stems in part from the growing sense that historical bonds defined by a sense of family between Israel and American Jews are fading. By strengthening individual connections, we can bolster collective ties.
| | |
| | |
Just Announced: Madeleine Albright to Headline Federation’s Main Event
On March 14, join hundreds of fellow community members for Federation’s Main Event (formerly The Network Event). Jewish Greater Washington’s largest annual evening of relationship-building and inspiration will feature special guest, former U.S. Secretary of State and U.N. Ambassador Madeleine Albright.
Get your tickets by February 28 to take advantage of the early-bird rate, as well as the special rate for young professionals (39 and under) and professionals working for Jewish organizations!
| | |
| | |
Jewish Disability Awareness & Inclusion Month (JDAIM): Reflecting on Our Communal Journey Towards Inclusion
During JDAIM, which begins today, we should pause and reflect on where we are in our journey to become more inclusive of individuals with disabilities. We can look to our tradition to find a strong Jewish imperative for inclusion. When the Torah was given, all Jews were standing at Sinai and our tradition teaches that we are created in the image of God. Being welcoming, accommodating, and inclusive is in line with our Jewish values. Yet, each February, we often find ourselves asking the same question: we’ve made progress, we have many examples of great inclusion, but why are we not yet at the end of this journey?
| | |
| | |
Seeking Proposals for Impact & Innovation
Do you need funding to expand your impact in our Jewish community? Have an innovative idea for the Jewish future that needs funding to get off the ground? Federation is requesting proposals from tax-exempt organizations and individuals affiliated with a fiscal sponsor to enhance engagement of the next generation (Next Gen) of Jewish leaders and of the Northern Virginia Jewish community. Federation will invest nearly $1 million to help you do more great work on behalf of our Jewish community. The submission deadline is February 11, 2019.
| | |
| | |
Celebrating Local Leader Ellen Kagen Waghelstein
Join us in congratulating Ellen Kagen Waghelstein, former Vice President of Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy, on receiving the prestigious Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award. Presented on January 15 at the biennial International Lion of Judah Conference, the Kipnis-Wilson Friedland Award honors extraordinary women who have set a high standard for philanthropy and volunteerism. We're thrilled to have Ellen setting this standard for our community, and grateful for all of the incredible work she has done and continues to do to move Jewish Greater Washington forward. Mazel tov, Ellen!
| | |
|
