A bright and early start to Chanukah
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More than 200 people gathered last week for a Chanukah celebration with Cafe Europa, an incredible program for Holocaust survivors run by our partners at JSSA and supported by Federation. The event was filled with joy, dancing, and connection — and served as a powerful reminder of why we work to build a vibrant Jewish community in Greater Washington for those of all ages.
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Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy Lions of Judah and Pomegranate Society members also held their annual Chanukah celebration. A highlight of the evening: inspiration from three of Federation’s local shlichim (Israeli emissaries) as they reflected on creating bonds between our community and Israel.
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Did you know? As Chanukah celebrations continue across our region, Federation’s JShield is helping keep community members safe. Thanks to generous Federation donors like you, we provide Jewish organizations and synagogues with security guidance, training, assistance with grant applications, and more at no cost to them. Thank you for keeping our community secure!
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You strengthen our Jewish community
Thank you for your ongoing support. Your generosity ensures we can continue our essential work, from securing our community to celebrating what makes Jewish life meaningful. Your Annual Campaign gift is an investment in our Jewish future.
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| What’s Next for Jewish Northern Virginia?
Yesterday, 16 lay leaders from 15 synagogues and organizations across Northern Virginia gathered in Arlington for Federation’s inaugural NOVA Leadership Initiative. In exploring the meaning of community – and celebrating its diversity — the group emphasized the importance of people over institutions in fostering connections. One participant noted, “It’s not the buildings that truly matter — it’s the people and how we bring them together.” As we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited to help these ideas take root and to welcome Melanie Schaeffer as our new Associate Director, Northern Virginia Community Outreach, bringing fresh energy to these efforts.
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In Community with Civil Rights Leaders
Lisa Handelman, Federation’s Director of Inclusion & Belonging, recently returned from a powerful civil rights solidarity trip to Birmingham, AL, sponsored by Federation and run by the Jewish Studio. The group met with incredible activists who shared their personal stories from the fight to end segregation and discrimination in the 1960s — and about their continued fight against injustices today. In the latest post on our blog, Lisa reflects on the lessons of these leaders and how they connect with Jewish values and teachings.
Read Lisa's reflection
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March to Bring Them Home – this Sunday at 1:00 PM
We are still reeling from devastating recent updates about the hostages - including the news that American Israeli Omer Neutra, z’’l, was murdered on October 7th. It is essential that we continue to call for the release of the 100 hostages still captive in Gaza. Please join Federation and our grantee, the Hostages & Missing Families Forum, every Sunday at 1:00 PM until we #bringthemhome. This week, hear from Elan Siegel, daughter of released hostage Aviva Siegel, and show her she is not alone. Her father, Keith, an American Israeli citizen, is still held hostage.
📍 Smithsonian Metro Station entrance at 12th Street NW and the Mall.
Connect with the Hostage Forum WhatsApp for updates
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Save the date for Federation's Cornerstone!
On March 3, 2025, Federation will honor intergenerational leaders building and sustaining Jewish life across our community: Alma Gildenhorn, Carol & Gary Berman, Sophie & Bradley Buslik, and Rachel & Peter Federowicz. Proceeds will benefit the Cornerstone Fund: investing in teens, college students, and young adults to foster their Jewish identity and nurture opportunities for their leadership and growth.
Explore event sponsorship and tribute opportunities
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