From the CEO

More Jews will gather together tonight than on any other night of the year to retell our ancient and increasingly more relevant Exodus story. Pesach…
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I’m writing to you on my way to Israel, where I’ll meet with our partners and look at how we can make an even greater impact on Israel’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged.

Many years ago, I was on the subway in Manhattan. An elderly man got off the train and left behind a worn copy of Professions…
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This past summer, I celebrated my 60th birthday. Honestly, there were many things about turning 60 that felt strange. My mother told me that “60…
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Thank you for your continued support of our Federation and our Jewish community. 2017 was a difficult and trying year for our community. We saw…
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We really need your help. This has been a difficult year for so many. Unfortunately, we know that 2018 is going to be even more challenging for our most vulnerable. We take responsibility for those among us in the greatest need — frail elderly, Holocaust survivors, those struggling financially, and those facing challenges and barriers in their day-to-day lives.

In just a few days, we will celebrate Chanukah. We will light our menorahs, placing them in our windows for all to see. Unfortunately, as you read this, the image of flames burning brightly has caused tremendous pain and suffering throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. We stand ready to help those who need us because that is an essential Federation value and commitment.

I grew up an hour away from Plymouth Rock in historic Salem, Massachusetts. Thanksgiving has always been my favorite American holiday. It’s not because of turkey and stuffing (although, I must admit, I do love Thanksgiving food!). I love this holiday because I’m deeply thankful — especially this year.

I think it is critical to ask questions, be curious, strive to learn, and interact with people from diverse backgrounds. The resulting conversations give us the opportunity to grow as individuals, as a community, and as a people. Just three weeks ago, we launched my new weekly podcast — Jay’s 4 Questions — which features dynamic and provocative discussions with thought leaders, disrupters, movers and shakers, experts, and more.

During these increasingly uncertain times, it has never been clearer that our Federation is essential to the fabric of our Jewish community and that we do indeed touch every Jewish life, including yours.