Shabbat Shalom

So much of what emanates from the Federation focuses on combating antisemitism and enhancing security for our Jewish community. I’m incredibly proud of our work in both areas. But it’s worth asking: why do we focus so heavily on this space? The answer is simple: so, we can live rich, meaningful Jewish lives. That’s where Tikkun Leil Shavuot—our annual night of study—comes into play.

I have a secret to share with you: Our community is remarkable—creative, passionate and dedicated. But even the most vibrant communities can continue to grow and learn. 

Purim is one of the most joyous holidays in the Jewish calendar. We celebrate by reading the Book of Esther and reveling in the festive spirit, especially for children. As I sat in my synagogue last night listening to the Megillah, I was struck by the joyful chaos—kids in costume running around, making noise and fully embracing the Purim spirit.

Although I’ve never met him, I’ve written and spoken about Alon Ohel with the media. He is the face I hold in my mind when I think of the Israeli hostages. On Sunday, the media reported that Alon is still alive.

This week, I’m handing the forum off to Emma Renfrew, our Women’s Philanthropy & Engagement Manager, as she discusses her time in Cuba.

Life today seems to have our Jewish community constantly moving from one issue, crisis or challenge to another.

You can volunteer to be part of our security strategy at Federation which includes the Virtual Block Watch, an initiative that allows residents and businesses with doorbell or security cameras to support our community safety efforts.

It’s been a difficult few years in Pittsburgh given the shooting in 2018, the pandemic, the trial for the shooter, the war in Ukraine and the war in Israel. It’s moments like the ones I had over the last week that remind me what our Federation is all about: creating a Jewish community where everyone feels included, supported and inspired.

In the last few weeks, a lot of tremendous achievements occurred for our Pittsburgh Jewish community.

I couldn’t be prouder about how our Federation has demonstrated strong, focused leadership these last few weeks.

At our recent staff picnic, I asked my colleagues to help remind me of what we (our donors, volunteers, partner agencies and staff) accomplished in the face of unbelievable challenges during the fiscal year that ended on June 30th.

Truthfully, you cannot fully comprehend what has happened since the Hamas terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023 without being in Israel, so I’m not going to attempt to share everything. Instead, here is just one story. The single person’s story formed a thread that traveled with us from the north to the south to central Israel.

Instead of a longer, cohesive message, I have a few thoughts to share ahead of the next week.

This week Kim Salzman, Director, Israel & Overseas Planning & Impact, writes about a newly formed partnership with Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak to help rebuild the area.

This week Rachel Soloff, Community Relations Council Associate, writes about her trip to Israel with Campus Ambassadors.

I am so proud of what we as a Federation have done since October 7 to stand with Israel.