April is filled with meaningful opportunities to come together through volunteerism, remembrance, and celebration. Whether you’re looking to give back, connect with others, or enjoy a vibrant community experience, there’s something for everyone this month at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland.

April 12
Good Deeds Day

Join Federation's Jewish Volunteer Network to make a difference in our community as part of Good Deeds Day, a global day of volunteerism. Individuals and families of all ages are invited to volunteer at one of several locations across Cleveland.

Multiple locations across Cleveland

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April 12
3^rd Annual Mimouna Celebration

Join Federation's Young Leadership Division (ages 22-45) for a Mimouna celebration! Together we will eat and make customary Mimouna foods and embrace this Moroccan custom marking the end of Passover.

7 - 9 pm 

Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Building
25701 Science Park Drive, Beachwood

$18 per person. Ages 21+

This event is hosted in partnership with the Israeli American Council.

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April 13
Yom Hashoah V'Hagvurah

This year’s theme, From Trauma to Transformation: The Enduring Impact of the Holocaust Across Generations, explores the Holocaust’s far-reaching effects across four interconnected spheres — individual, family, community, global. While the Shoah was a rupture that inflicted unimaginable trauma and loss, its legacy also includes powerful stories of resistance, resilience, and rebuilding.

This year's commemoration includes:

• March of Generations and Procession of Holocaust Torahs, symbolizing continuity and the enduring strength of our people.
• A moving candle lighting ceremony, honoring the contributions of individuals, families, and programs that have created impact. 

April 14 
Community Security Training: The Power of Hello

By confidently greeting unfamiliar individuals and acknowledging their presence, community members can deter suspicious activity while maintaining a welcoming synagogue environment.

6 - 7 pm

Mandel JCC - Stonehill Auditorium
26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood

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April 17
Zikaron BaSalon

Young adults ages 22-45 are invited to connect with local Holocaust Survivors, listen to their stories, and engage in moving conversations about the importance of keeping the memory of the Holocaust alive. This year, our program will take place around Shabbat tables across the community, creating intimate spaces for learning, reflection, and connection.

7:30 - 9:30 pm

Multiple locations across Cleveland

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April 19
DocuNation: Embracing the Israeli Spirit Filmmaker Conversation

Experience DocuNation: Embracing the Israeli Spirit, a powerful virtual documentary film series that captures the heartbeat of Israel—tender, courageous, and full of hope.

This multi-date series gathers films that reflect stories of resilience and creativity, kindness and connection, and the quiet heroism found in everyday life.

Each documentary will be available to stream during a 12-day viewing window, followed by a live Zoom filmmaker conversation with award-winning documentary filmmaker Yonatan Nir.

Talk-backs begin at 1:00 pm ET and conclude at 2:00 pm ET, moderated by Cathy Stamler, Film Chair, Cleveland Israel Arts Connection.

Picture of His Life
Available: March 12 - March 30
Filmmaker Conversation: March 22

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April 19
Ratzim Lezichram

Ratzim Lezichram – “running in their memory” – brings together community members during Yom Hazikaron to honor fallen soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and victims of terror.

Join the YLD community to walk, run, jog, or bike to honor the heroes we've lost. Each participant will receive a bib that displays the name of the individual they are honoring. They will also receive a biography about the person they’re representing prior to the event.

1 - 3 pm

Acacia Reservation
Cedar Road, Lyndhurst

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April 20
Yom Hazikaron

Unite with the Cleveland community to commemorate the legacy and sacrifice of Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror.

Join us for a meaningful program with music and prayers to honor the lives of the ones we have lost and show our gratitude and respect. Attendees will have the opportunity to list the name of an individual they want to honor during pre-registration.

It is Israeli tradition to wear a white shirt to commemorate Yom Hazikaron. We invite you to participate in this custom.

7 - 8 pm

Congregation Shaarey Tikvah
26811 Fairmount Blvd, Beachwood

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April 22
Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s 78th Independence Day

Enjoy live Israeli music and festive Israeli dancing. Explore interactive stations, including creating your own sparkling drink (gazoz), designing flower crowns, and experiencing the flavors of Israel through fresh herbs and spices.

Children can enjoy face painting, a PJ Library® craft, and an "I Spy" adventure around the building. Teens will have their own hangout space with games and activities, while adults can take part in wine tasting, a leather workshop, and a short film screening.

Stroll through our marketplace (shuk) featuring Israeli goods, grab a bite from food vendors, and connect with community organizations making an impact across Jewish Cleveland. 

5:30 - 8:30 pm

B'nai Jeshurun Congregation
27501 Fairmount Blvd, Pepper Pike

No cost to attend. Kosher food will be available for purchase.

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April 23
Community Security Training:

Participants learn how to recognize escalating behavior and use calm communication to reduce tension during confrontations. This training provides practical techniques for defusing antisemitic/anti-Israel verbal harassment, calming emotionally charged individuals, and maintaining personal safety.

6 - 7 pm

Mandel JCC - Stonehill Auditorium
26001 S. Woodland Road, Beacwhood

REGISTER >> 

April 26
Contempory Visions of Israel: Open House & Meet the Curator

Please join us for a behind the scenes look at the Roe Green Gallery's latest exhibition, Contemporary Visions of Israel. Curator Jane Glaubiner will discuss the works, the artists, and the themes of the exhibition. 

1 - 3 pm
Curator talk at 1:15 pm

Roe Green Gallery
Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Building
25701 Science Park Drive, Beachwood

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April 28
Pomegranate Society* Presents: Securing Jewish Clevelan

Attend an in-depth and hands-on experience to learn how Jewish Federation of Cleveland's security provider – JFC Security, LLC – helps keep our community safe, open, and welcoming.

Participants will learn from a panel of security experts and take part in an elevated training designed for women. Led by the professionals of JFC Security, this interactive experience will offer practical techniques, valuable safety insights, and a closer look at the important work being done to protect our community.

6:30 - 8:30 pm

Mandel JCC
26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood

REGISTER >> 

*Pomegranate Society celebrates women who make individual gifts of $1,800 or more to the annual Campaign for Jewish Needs.

The Federation's Young Leadership Division (YLD) Weinberg Mission to Israel offers Jewish Cleveland young adults ages 22-45 an opportunity to explore the wonders and complexities of Israel today, with a special focus on life after October 7 and how this moment is shaping the country’s future. Through firsthand experiences, meaningful conversations, and unforgettable moments, participants gained new insights into Israel’s people, challenges, resilience, and hope.

Below, mission participant Marina Perelman shares a personal reflection on her experience –what the group saw, what they learned, and how the journey deepened the group's connection to Israel and the impact of our community.

The YLD Weinberg Mission to Israel is generously supported by a fund established by Penni & Steve Weinberg.

I was deeply honored to be accepted to join the Weinberg Mission in February 2026. As someone who has long supported the Federation through donations, I realized that I had never truly taken the time to understand the real, human impact behind those contributions. This mission gave me the opportunity not only to return to Israel, a place I have visited many times, but to experience it through an entirely new and meaningful lens.

While I had seen much of Israel before, this journey revealed a side of the country I had never encountered. It opened my eyes to the extraordinary work being done on the ground and the profound difference that the Cleveland Jewish Federation is making in people’s lives every single day. What once felt like distant philanthropy became deeply personal and tangible.

One of the most powerful aspects of the trip was visiting Kibbutz Kissufim, which suffered devastating damage during the October 7th attacks. Hearing directly from members of the kibbutz about how their lives were forever changed was both heartbreaking and inspiring. They shared their stories of loss, resilience, and rebuilding. What stood out most was their deep gratitude — not just for the support they received, but for the partnership they feel with the Cleveland Federation. This isn’t just aid; it’s a relationship built on listening, trust, and responding to their most urgent needs.

Because of that support, the kibbutz has been able to begin rebuilding in meaningful ways, including the construction of a brand-new dairy production facility. This project will not only help sustain their community but also provide essential resources to surrounding areas. Again and again, individuals approached us simply to say thank you. In those moments, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride in being part of something so impactful.

Another powerful example of the Federation’s work came in the form of something as simple — and as life-saving — as air conditioners in bomb shelters. These are not luxuries; they are critical tools that have quite literally saved lives. Seeing how targeted, thoughtful support can make such a difference shifted my entire perspective on giving.

The day that impacted me the most, however, was our visit to the Nova Festival site. I believed I had mentally prepared myself, but nothing could have prepared me for the reality. As we arrived, we were met with rows upon rows of memorial posters, each one representing a young life lost — individuals who had begun their day simply enjoying music and community.

I walked slowly among them, reading the stories their families chose to share. Each poster revealed a glimpse into a life full of dreams, passions, and love. I read about who they were, what they valued, and what they hoped for in the future — futures that were tragically cut short. The most difficult moments were reading their final messages to loved ones, filled with hope and humanity even in their last moments.

Standing there, surrounded by hundreds of faces and stories, was overwhelming in a way that words cannot fully capture. It was a moment of deep sorrow, but also of reflection, connection, and responsibility. I felt incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to be there — to bear witness, to honor their memories, and to ensure that they are not forgotten.

This mission changed me. It allowed me to see Israel not just as a place I have visited, but as a living, breathing community that is deeply connected to us. It gave me clarity and confidence in where Federation dollars are going and the real lives they are helping to rebuild and sustain.

I leave this experience with a profound sense of gratitude and pride. Being part of the Weinberg Mission has not only deepened my connection to Israel but also strengthened my commitment to supporting the vital work that makes such a meaningful difference every day.

Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News

by Jimmy Oswald

Despite a 120–103 loss to the Miami Heat on March 25 at Rocket Arena in downtown Cleveland, more than 100 members of the local Jewish community still found plenty to celebrate during Jewish Community Night.

The event, a partnership between the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and the Cleveland Cavaliers, included a pregame gathering at Gilly’s at Rocket Arena, where attendees enjoyed kosher pizza in a space lined with sports memorabilia and featuring a basketball arcade game.

“We have season tickets with the Cavaliers, so we think it’s a great combination,” Frank Nisenbaum of Beachwood, who was attending the event with his wife, Jean, told the Cleveland Jewish News. “We’re proud of who we are, and we are also big-time Cavs fans. We think it’s a great job by the Federation to have this exposure at a Cavs game. We’re very happy about it.”

Bradley Sherman, chair of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland Campaigns for Jewish Needs in 2021 and 2022 represented the Federation at the event, said it was special for the Cavs to invite the organization to help support this night.

“Especially now with everything going on in the world, the idea of being able to bring the community together, especially for a fun and joyous occasion, means a lot,” Sherman told the CJN. “It’s great to see so many faces that you know here while also making plenty of new friends. It means a lot to have everybody here show up and support both our amazing basketball team and our amazing community.”

Jason Hillman, vice president of basketball operations for the Cleveland Cavaliers, said sports entertainment provides an opportunity to get everyone, regardless of background involved.

“It’s what sports entertainment should be all about, we have the chance to host everybody,” Hillman, a congregant of Congregation Mishkan Or in Beachwood and a Solon resident, told the CJN. “Everybody should feel welcome at a place like Rocket Arena and feel like they see themselves here. It’s why we do what we do.”

The game was also Noche Latina, or Latin Night, which celebrated Hispanic/Latino culture and heritage with dance performances, a Spanish broadcast and a pregame party, just like the one for the Jewish community.

“This is how we roll,” Kevin Clayton, executive vice president, chief impact and equity officer of Rock Entertainment Group, the parent company of the Cavs, said while addressing attendees during the party. “We stand up for this community, to the point where we are the only team in sports that has a Jewish ERG (employee resource group) called JUICE (Jews for Unity, Inclusion, Connection and Education). That’s important because your Cavs have the courage to lead from the front. We know how important this community is, and we wanted to make sure that our team members have a place where we could grab our arms around them when they need support.”

Clayton, who traveled with the Federation on a trip to Israel in 2025, said the experience changed his life forever.

“There were things I saw about Israel and in the Israelis and Jewish people that I never knew,” he said. “We’ve brought back some of those principles here to make Cleveland a better community.”

A portion of ticket sales purchased through the Federation benefited the organization’s annual Campaign for Jewish Needs.

Attendees sporting Cavs’ jerseys and shirts, mingled and enjoyed snacks before the game.

David Seltzer was dressed up in a steam-punk inspired costume with the Cavs’ logo on a metal-looking top hat.

“I had the tools out for other costumes, so I went ahead and made myself a Cavs’ version,” Seltzer, a Beachwood resident who attended with Yair Oppenheim and Isabelle Seltzer of Fair Lawn, N.J., both also dressed in the outfits. “We like to wear steam punk costumes. And I thought, ‘Oh, I could definitely do this with the Cavs logo.’”

Hillman, Sherman and Clayton all addressed attendees at Gilly’s during the party, thanking them for their support.

“We have an amazing foundation here,” Sherman said. “(When I was campaign chair), I got the opportunity to work with this Jewish community and see the wonderful things we do here, in Israel and all over the world. I see how we build community, save individuals, support our friends and family, and make both Cleveland and the world a better place.”

About 30 Jewish community members then gathered on the basketball court and unfurled a large American flag during the national anthem. Children were later selected to high-five Cavs’ players as they ran onto the court following halftime.

Several attendees watched the game from a suite, while others purchased tickets throughout the arena.

Hillman is from Detroit and said it was a “tough week” after a 41-year-old U.S. citizen who immigrated from Lebanon 15 years ago, rammed his vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Mich. on March 12, opening fire and causing an explosion using fireworks, before killing himself. Hillman said he learned through that attack how powerful community can be.

“This is incredible and inspiring,” Hillman told the CJN. “The strength of the Jewish community in Cleveland is beyond words. The fact that the Cavs have partnered with the Federation and are hosting this night is equally inspiring. We’re big on community, whether that’s our Northeast Ohio community, our Jewish community or our Cavs’ community – we’re honored to host this. It’s a special night for us.”

The Jewish Federation of Cleveland announced that Aaron Gross has been awarded the 2025 Bennett and Donna Yanowitz Leadership Award, which recognizes and honors an outstanding young individual who has demonstrated commitment, involvement, and leadership within Cleveland’s Jewish community. He received the award at the Federation’s Board of Trustees meeting on March 26.

A respected leader, Gross has been deeply involved in the Cleveland Jewish community through his service on multiple boards and committees. He currently serves on the board of trustees at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and as vice president of Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School, where he also served as building co-chair during a transformative capital renovation project. Under his oversight, the renovations were completed largely while school was in session, on time, and under budget – a testament to his strategic vision and collaborative leadership.

Gross is also a trustee of the Chelm Family Foundation and contributes to synagogue leadership through the B’nai Jeshurun Congregation Capital Campaign steering committee. Through his unwavering commitment to community, Aaron Gross exemplifies the spirit of service, excellence, and integrity that the Bennett and Donna Yanowitz Young Leadership Award celebrates.

“Aaron Gross embodies the vision, dedication, and leadership this award was created to honor,” said Jeffrey J. Wild, Federation board chair. “His outstanding commitment to our community reflects both his deep passion for Jewish Cleveland and his exceptional ability to lead with purpose and impact.”

Gross, 36, is a partner at Gross Residential, overseeing the construction and development department. The Yanowitz Award has been given annually since the early 1960s. As recipient of the award, Gross is invited to join the Cleveland delegation to a General Assembly of the Jewish Federations of North America.

On Passover, we retell the story of the Israelites leaving Egypt to find freedom. It is a foundational narrative of the Jewish people as it anchors our identity, clarifies our values, strengthens our resilience, and demands the responsibility that comes from this knowledge. This story also serves as an important reminder that we are interconnected as a people – that there are moments in our history that transcend time, where we are all present.

Throughout modern history, we have witnessed events that parallel leaving Egypt: Holocaust Survivors enduring the unthinkable; Soviet refuseniks finally freed; Ethiopian Jews making their way to Israel through Sudan; and, most recently, the heroism of the former hostages in Gaza. Each adds another chapter to the history of the Jewish people.

Our story has carried additional heaviness of late. When we sit down for seder this year, we do so with a weight of war and hate once again on our shoulders. As we retell the story of the Exodus, we pray for the safety of the people of Israel and for innocent people everywhere. And we pray for a day when children of all backgrounds regardless of where they live – Cleveland, Detroit, Tel Aviv, Toronto, Sydney – are safe and free from fear.

This year’s seder will also feel different because we understand we can no longer take our security and freedom for granted. When we sing the “Dayenu” song, perhaps we should add some aspirational examples to it.

For example, it would be enough if:

… there were no more excuses for hate, and no more rationalizing it. (Dayenu)

… we truly listened to each other and tried to understand where our differences come from. (Dayenu)

… children around the world were safe. (Dayenu)

… we wore our identities only with pride and never with fear. (Dayenu)

… we continued to care for one another. (Dayenu)

… we stayed together as a community. (Dayenu)

… we embraced our neighbors and we were embraced in return. (Dayenu)

… we were always safe in the Land of Israel. (Dayenu)

… we achieved enduring peace and safety for all people in the Middle East. (Dayenu)

Thank you for all that you do to make our special community what it is today and what it can be tomorrow.

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy, healthy, and safe Passover; Chag Pesach Sameach. Next year in Jerusalem and Cleveland; L’shana haba’ah b’Yerushalayim.

Jeffrey J. Wild, board chair
Erika B. Rudin-Luria, president

Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News

by Casey Couch

The Jewish Federation of Cleveland, in partnership with the Kol Israel Foundation, will host its annual Yom Hashoah V’Hagvurah commemoration from 6:30 to 8 p.m. April 13 at Congregation Mishkan Or at 26000 Shaker Blvd. in Beachwood.

Hirsh

This year’s theme, “From Trauma to Transformation: The Enduring Impact of the Holocaust Across Generations,” will explore the Holocaust’s far-reaching effects across four interconnected spheres – individual, family, community and global. The theme takes a broader look at topics that were explored last year, which related to deep dives on family history.

“This year, we wanted to zoom out and explore how those experiences shaped a broader sense of community and contributed to a sense of gratitude and responsibility amongst the Jewish community,” Jordan Walman, co-chair of the event, told the Cleveland Jewish News.

According to Erica Hirsh, co-chair of the event alongside Walman, the commemoration will include a moving candle lighting ceremony which will honor the contributions of both community members and local institutions.

“We will be honoring many different spheres of, not just influence, but initiatives, families and local individuals who have volunteered their time to participate in Holocaust education and remembrance,” Hirsh said.

Walman

The program will include a traditional procession of Jewish war veterans with Holocaust Torahs and flags, and a March of Generations that will signify the importance of future generations. Musical performances, including one by Cantor Vladimir Lapin, and remarks from leaders at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and Congregation Mishkan Or will also take place following the processions.

“All these elements are designed to balance remembrance with reflection and resilience, and continuity of our community, both locally and globally, as well as the importance of remembering and never forgetting why we are here,” Walman said.

There will also be a chance to hear from at least one Holocaust survivor during the commemoration – an important piece of the program for both co-chairs who are each descendants of Holocaust survivors themselves.

“Any opportunity to hear directly from a Holocaust survivor is not something that should be missed by anyone in our community,” Walman added.

According to Hirsh, there will also be an exhibit from Jewish Family Service Association’s Holocaust Legacy Project, which features interviews of Holocaust survivors, some who have since passed away, to share their stories. Kol Israel Foundation’s Face-To-Face program will also be honored, as well as photographs of survivors and content for attendees to read and interact with on display.

“There are so many initiatives happening on many levels around Holocaust remembrance and education,” Hirsh said. “Unfortunately, there’s no way we can highlight and honor everybody, but we are doing our best to showcase some of them and their impact.”

The co-chairs said that their goal is to reach more community members this year, as they invite those who are interested to join them, educate themselves, and hear from survivors and leaders in the community.

“Unfortunately, as our survivor community becomes smaller with time, it’s evermore important, even with the rise in antisemitism, to talk about the past, never forget, and learn from those lessons,” Walman said.

All community members are welcome to attend, and content is appropriate for school-aged children.

The event is free, but registration is required in advance at bit.ly/4m0DEgr.

According to the 2025 Annual DAF Report by the Donor Advised Fund Research Collaborative, the total number of DAF accounts in the U.S. reached a record 3.56 million, with collective grantmaking rising 19% from the prior year to $64.89 billion.

Feinberg

Like all DAF sponsors, the DAF program at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland sees people of all ages, interests, backgrounds and income levels turning to DAFs because they offer a flexible, straightforward way to make the most impact now while planning for future charitable giving. Here are a few reasons why DAFs can be of benefit to you:

Organized Giving

If you find yourself scrambling each tax season to track down all your gift receipts, a DAF saves you time and stress by consolidating and tracking all your giving in one place. Instead of multiple receipts for each gift, a DAF donor receives a single tax receipt from the DAF sponsor. The DAF sponsor also tracks all your contribution and grant history.

Additionally, DAF sponsors make it easy to recommend grants and process them for you, meaning you can support multiple causes through a single account, instead of multiple checks or credit card payments.

Strategic Giving

By handling the logistics for you and offering clearer oversight over your total contributions and grant recommendations each year, DAFs let you be proactive about what you want to achieve with your generosity. In addition, a DAF can help you maintain a consistent pattern of support while also giving you the flexibility to respond to an urgent cause without affecting your current finances.

Tax-Efficient Giving

DAFs can be funded in a variety of ways, including through gifts of cash, securities, business interests, real estate and other property. Contributions of appreciated securities and other property owned more than one year avoid capital gains tax. Also, if you itemize, a contribution to a DAF may qualify for an immediate deduction while grants from the account can be made over time.

Family Giving

Beyond facilitating individual giving, DAFs are also great options for engaging your family in shared philanthropy. Either by authorizing family members to recommend grants or by gathering regularly to discuss charitable decisions, DAFs can create a practical way to share goals and values with the next generation.

If this is your intention when opening a DAF, look for a sponsoring organization with staff trained in supporting family philanthropy and the complexities that might arise in multigenerational giving.

Legacy Giving

DAFs can even make estate planning easier. You can recommend that DAF assets are granted to specific charities or create an endowment at the sponsoring nonprofit upon your death. This can be done with a simple form provided by the DAF sponsor without involving an attorney. Alternatively, most DAF sponsors let you name successors to give them the opportunity to continue your legacy of giving for their own philanthropic paths. Finally, you can include a charitable bequest to a DAF in your estate documents.

When choosing a DAF, consider online access, options to invest DAF funds so the assets can grow tax-free, and dedicated staff with expertise and relationships in your community.

Michelle Feinberg is senior manager, donor advised funds at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in Beachwood.

Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News

by Adriana Gasiewski

After joining 39 other Cleveland civic leaders on the first biennial Thomas and Joann Adler Civic Leaders Israel Mission in 2017, Jill Zimon, co-chair of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s civil rights mission and former AJC Cleveland president, came up with the idea to visit the South and learn more about Black Americans’ history.

McNair

“I felt that we had such success with the Adler trip in terms of building and strengthening bridges between the Black and Jewish community by having them come see a place that was so filled with history and so important to us in the Jewish community,” Zimon told the Cleveland Jewish News. “That we might demonstrated our interested in getting educated about and kind of walking in their shoes by visiting the South.”

Darrell McNair, co-chair of the civil rights mission, told the CJN that it was important for him to be a part of the mission because of its relevancy and local impact.

“Most of us weren’t old enough to remember the events dating back to 1940 and through the ‘60s, but we read about it,” McNair said. “We heard about it. What made the trip so impactful was actually seeing it, walking the same grounds, seeing the monuments, seeing exhibits, hearing people who were there at the time tell their stories.”

To make this trip a reality, she met with individuals at the Center for Human Rights as well as Abbie Levin, senior vice president / chief external affairs officer at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Daniel Pearlman, managing director, community relations and external affairs at the Federation, and Oliver Young, senior associate for external affairs at the Federation, in fall 2024.

Zimon

Zimon, a congregant of B’nai Jeshurun Congregation and a 2023 Difference Maker recipient, also worked with co-chairs McNair, Felton Thomas, head of Cleveland Public Library, and Renee Chelm, chair of the board of the Maltz Museum and a former board chair of the Federation.

After receiving the green light from the Federation, Zimon assembled a cohort of 40 Cleveland civic leaders, including herself, to travel to Atlanta, Montgomery, Selma and Birmingham from March 1 to March 4.

During their first day in Atlanta, the group visited the gravesites of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King, across from the Ebenezer Baptist Church, The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the Equal Justice Initiative’s Freedom Monument Sculpture Park and the EJI’s Legacy Museum.

“Those museums, whether it was that museum itself, Equal Justice Memorial Museum, the Equal Justice Initiative Memorial Garden – which really highlighted the lynching – I mean it memorialized, highlighted and really told the story just through sculpture,” McNair said.

In the night, they went to Montgomery, where the following morning Mayor Steven Reed greeted the group and talked with them. Then they visited the Mothers of Gynecology Monument and the Rosa Parks Museum before driving to Selma.

In Selma, they went to the Edmund Pettus Bridge and met a person who was able to give a firsthand account of the events of Bloody Sunday, when Alabama Highway Patrol troopers highway clashed with civil rights advocates outside the city on March 7, 1965.

When the group arrived in Birmingham, they had the option to attend a forum program or meet Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. The group also heard from Sarah Collins, sister to one of the four girls killed in the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, recount the event.

“This woman still has not receive restitution for the pain and suffering she’s been through, let alone the experience of what had been done to her,” Zimon said. “It was very – difficult history to confront and absorb but critical, really important.”

They visited the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute before driving back to Atlanta and spending half-a-day at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, taking part in group activities and reflecting on the mission.

“At the end of day, what really resonated, I think, was the oppression and dismissiveness of a particular people, particular, and that paralleled so much with the Jewish journey,” McNair said. “And with that for the Black community, much of the struggle was about equal treatment, the ability to vote, the ability to have your voice heard.”

From visiting these monuments and talking to individuals, attendees and the Federation plan to work together to generate advocacy around voter rights, voter education, education and economic development.

“This is a long game,” Zimon said. “You have to look at the long haul – it’s not transactional. It’s not about one thing. This is about how you retain relationships, how you deepen relationships and how you determine how you can help each other.”

Last week, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland shared an update with our community in response to the recent antisemitic attack on Temple Israel in Detroit. Today, we are following up with ways you can get involved in Jewish Cleveland through an upcoming briefing on the war with Iran, security trainings, and advocacy opportunities.

We hope you will participate and encourage others to do the same. Your involvement helps ensure our community remains safe, open, and welcoming.

Webinar Briefing: Israel & the United States at War with Iran with Haviv Rettig Gur

Wednesday, March 18 at 12 pm ET

Join the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) for a special briefing on the rapidly unfolding conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. Haviv Rettig Gur will provide timely insight and analysis on the latest developments and what they may mean for the region and the Jewish community worldwide. Moderated by Erika B. Rudin-Luria, Jewish Federation of Cleveland president.

REGISTER >>

Community Security Trainings

Run, Hide, Fight – Active Threat Response
March 30, 6 – 7 pm

Mandel JCC
26001 S. Woodland Rd, Beachwood

Participants learn escape strategies, safe hiding practices, communication methods, and last‑resort defensive actions if confronted by a violent attacker.

REGISTER >>

The Power of Hello
April 14, 6 – 7 pm

Mandel JCC
26001 S. Woodland Rd, Beachwood

By confidently greeting unfamiliar individuals and acknowledging their presence, community members can deter suspicious activity while maintaining a welcoming synagogue environment.

REGISTER >>

De‑Escalation and Conflict Management
April 23, 6 – 7 pm

Mandel JCC
26001 S. Woodland Rd, Beachwood

Participants learn how to recognize escalating behavior and use calm communication to reduce tension during confrontations. This training provides practical techniques for defusing antisemitic/anti-Israel verbal harassment, calming emotionally charged individuals, and maintaining personal safety.

REGISTER >>

Stop the Bleed
May 5, 7 – 8 pm

Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Building
25701 Science Park Dr, Beachwood

Stop the Bleed is a lifesaving program established by the American College of Surgeons in response to a Presidential directive on national preparedness. The program aims to enhance survival rates by empowering the public to respond to bleeding emergencies effectively.

REGISTER >>

Protect Our Communities: Urge Congress to Strengthen Security for Jewish Institutions

Last week’s antisemitic attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan is a stark reminder that Jewish communities across the country remain under threat. Thanks to on‑site security guards, tragedy was avoided — but relying on philanthropy alone is not sustainable.

Jewish communities spent over $765 million last year on security. That means fewer resources for education, camps, and essential programs, even as threats continue to rise.

Please take one minute to fill out this form and urge your Members of Congress to fully fund the federal security grant program that protects synagogues, schools, child‑care centers, community centers, and other vulnerable institutions.

TAKE ACTION NOW >>

Washington, D.C. Fly-In Advocacy Opportunities

May 4-5: Advocacy Day for Israel

JFNA is partnering with a coalition of pro-Israel evangelical organizations to bring 300–400 pastors to Washington, along with up to 125 rabbis and Jewish communal leaders, to advocate on issues related to Israel and combating antisemitism.

May 18-19: Jewish Federations of North America Advocacy Fly-in: Securing Our Communities

JFNA is organizing a fly-in to advance the Jewish community’s six-point security agenda announced after the antisemitic murders in Washington, D.C., and Boulder. The program will focus on advocating for stronger communal security at a time of rising antisemitism.

If you are interested in receiving more information for either fly-in, please contact Marc Ashed at mashed@jewishcleveland.org.

We are here for you.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Access Jewish Cleveland at 216-292-4636 or via accessjewishcleveland.org.

Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News

by Casey Couch

Members of the Ohio Jewish Caucus gathered at the Mandel Jewish Community Center in Beachwood on March 12 – hours after the attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Mich. – for a community meeting, in which they encouraged constituents to remain vigilant and communicative about their needs in the state.

In attendance were: Rep. Eric Synenberg, D-Beachwood; Sen. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson; House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn, D-Cincinnati; Rep. Beryl Brown Piccolantonio, D-Gahanna; Rep. Karen Brownlee, D-Symmes Township; and Rep. Christine Cockley, D-Columbus, who all spoke on the collective responsibility they carry representing the Jewish community in Congress during the program. Marc Ashed, assistant vice president of external affairs for the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in Beachwood, moxerated the program, which had been scheduled before the temple attack.

“It’s a profound responsibility, not just to educate people, but to try to be representative of a community that is broader than just the six of our views,” Isaacsohn said. “That takes a lot of listening, a lot of nuance and a lot of trying to be respectful and thoughtful.”

Ohio Jewish Caucus, which previously held similar community events in Akron, Columbus and Cincinnati, was established in its current form in January 2025 to provide a unifying voice for Jewish legislators on issues important to their constituents, the CJN previously reported.

“We have really tried to get out and be present across the state and listen as best we can, so that when we’re discussing our views, they’re informed by you,” Weinstein said, adding that the OJC is the most active caucus that he is involved in.

One of the things that the caucus, especially Weinstein, has recently been active in is advancing legislation, Senate Bill 47, in the Senate on March 4 aimed at incorporating the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism into state law for use in investigations and legal proceedings. The measure passed by a bipartisan vote of 27-4 and will now head to the Ohio House of Representatives for consideration.

“I’m sure, for all of us, one of the things that is at the top of the list is finding opportunities to build relationships so that we can break down barriers and see each other as individuals, and not generalize about us being members of the Democratic Party or being one of six Jews in the legislature,” Brown Piccolantonio said.

Cockley said, “By being my authentic self, people realize that they can have a government that works for them, so that’s one way, on a smaller scale, that I try to fight the civil discourse that’s happening right now.”

Ohio Jewish Caucus is also involved in leading the Ohio-Israel Trade partnership, which passed the house, HB 188, and made its way to the Senate last week. Synenberg gave his first sponsor testimony in front of the Senate as a leader on the bill, and Weinstein is working on the Senate’s companion bill.

“It would create an Ohio Israel Trade Commission that would be made up of a wide variety of researchers, business leaders, Jewish community professionals and some representatives and senators as well, that would look at the issue of how we can get Ohio to do more with Israeli companies, whether it’s defense, aerospace or agriculture,” Synenberg said. “These are all Ohio-centric industries that Israel excels at, and 25 other states have these commissions.”

Other issues that the Ohio Jewish Caucus are currently dealing with include antisemitism, labor, and partisanism, which Brownlee commented on.

“The whole partisanism thing is really a problem right now,” Brownlee said. “Our parties were not meant to be a super majority. Our parties were meant to hold tension against one another, to support the checks and balances of democracy, and I think that, as a Jewish community, it’s our time to come together. We’re facing a new era of antisemitism.”

Jesse Rosen, president and CEO of the Mandel JCC, also spoke at the event, welcoming the congressmen and congresswomen into Stonehill Auditorium and touching on the headline of the day.

“We are honored to play host tonight,” Rosen said. “Our belief is that every voice, within reason, deserves to be heard, and I’m very pleased that we could be a part of this community on what is a challenging day in the Jewish community nationally.”

The program demonstrated how members of the Jewish community from diverse backgrounds can set aside their differences to work toward a common goal in critical moments – a sentiment that Synenberg, who was playing host to his five colleagues in the city of Beachwood, told the Cleveland Jewish News.

“It was a really good display of how we are all different, but all similar. How we don’t always agree, but we all work together,” Synenberg told the CJN. “At the end of the day, we have a lot of the same values that are based on us being Jews, and the feedback I’ve gotten from some of the people who I’ve talked to after has all been very positive in terms of, ‘I’m glad that you’re representing us and that the six of you are our leaders for the state.’”

In times like these, the temptation to withdraw from Jewish life is understandable. Now, more than ever, we need to stand together. We have a responsibility to protect our community and ensure that every one of our institutions remains open and vibrant in the face of those that hate us. We encourage you to attend synagogue this weekend and to be present with one another. Our unity and resolve make us stronger.

These are extremely volatile times, which is why the proven security measures in place are so essential.

Federation’s security provider (JFC Security, LLC) is working in close contact with all levels of law enforcement. This past Tuesday, Federation leadership met with FBI leadership at their headquarters in Washington D.C. The support we are receiving from all law enforcement is extraordinary, and you may have noticed increased patrols in our neighborhoods and around Jewish facilities, which will continue. And while there is no known current threat to our community at this time, local security remains on heightened alert. When you see law enforcement officers, please join us in thanking them for their unwavering commitment to our safety.

As we’ve noted before, we all have a role to play in keeping our community safe. Today, more than ever, reporting suspicious activity or individuals immediately is crucial:

1. If you see something – anything or anyone – that seems out of place, call 9-1-1 immediately. (JFC Security will be made aware of the call by law enforcement.)
2. Be active in the institutions you participate in. If you are concerned about security at your child’s school (whether it be public, private, or university), make your voice heard. Call the institution and express your concerns.
3. If you have questions about security or concerns about Jewish Cleveland, call JFC Security’s Security Desk at 216-593-2929. Messages are received at all hours. JFC
4. Security and law enforcement have requested that when walking around this Shabbat, please stay on sidewalks and out of the streets.

We are here for you. We will continue to communicate in the coming days, including our plans for upcoming security briefings and new security training opportunities for volunteers. This training is essential and we know it makes a difference. We hope you will participate and encourage others to participate.

This Shabbat, we send our love and support to our friends and family in Detroit and pray for a true Shabbat Shalom for Jews everywhere. And as is tradition (to say) when we finish the Book of Exodus this week, let us: Be strong, be strong, and let us strengthen one another.

Am Yisrael Chai,

Jeffrey J. Wild, board chair
Erika B. Rudin-Luria, president

p.s.: If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Access Jewish Cleveland at 216-292-4636 or via accessjewishcleveland.org.

Volunteer Opportunities

Join Federation's Jewish Volunteer Network to make a difference in our community as part of Good Deeds Day, a global day of volunteerism. Since 2007, Good Deeds Day has united millions of volunteers from 108 countries for service opportunities that benefit people and the planet.

Individuals and families of all ages are invited to volunteer at one of several locations across Cleveland.

Sunday, April 12
Times vary based on the volunteer opportunity you choose


Please register by Sunday, April 5. 

At each site, registrants will learn about the organization’s needs, participate in direct-service volunteerism, and connect Jewish values to this important work.

Please note: Space is limited at each site and will be available on a first come first serve basis. Sites that do not meet capacity may not be offered.

Please scroll to the bottom to view all volunteer opportunities and find the experience that fits your interest:

The Cleveland Chesed Center
An opportunity for BBYO teens, part of the Jewish Youth Day of Service

Volunteer Location: Cleveland Chesed Center, 1898 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

Time: 10 – 11:30 am

Number of Volunteers Needed: 30 volunteers

Eligibility: Teens only

Project Details: Restock shelves after Passover and sort donations

REGISTER >>

Cleveland Kids' Book Bank

Volunteer Location: 13913 West Parkway Rd, Cleveland, OH 44135

Time: 1 - 3 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 40 

Eligibility: Ages 13+ (with an adult)

Project Details: Sort, sticker, and pack books by category, age, and reading level to be distributed to 16,000+ partner programs across Cleveland.

REGISTER >>

Hebrew Cultural Garden

Volunteer Location: 1160 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44108

Time: 10 am – 12 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 30

Eligibility: Ages 7+ (with an adult)

Project Details: Garden clean up and prep for spring planting

REGISTER >>

JFSA's Horvitz YouthAbility Program
Hosted by Federation's Women IN Philanthropy 

Volunteer Location: JFSA Kindness Center, 23900 Commerce Park, Beachwood, OH 44122

Time: 1 - 2:30 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 20

Eligibility: Women of all ages (families welcome)

Project Details: Spend the afternoon with YouthAbility participants at the Kindness Center. Activities may include: Making items to be donated during the spring trip to Louisville, making art for Parade the Circle, creating handmade embossed greeting cards, making centerpieces and/or placemats for Memory Cafe, and weather permitting, gardening, cleaning windows, and decorating outside with sidewalk chalk. 

REGISTER >>

Jewish Community Housing

Volunteer Location: Provided upon registration

Time: 10 – 11:30 am

Number of Volunteers Needed: 10 at each site (up to two sites)

Eligibility: Ages 18+

Project Details: Home and yard maintenance at Jewish Family Service Association Group Homes.

REGISTER >>

jHUB Project Benefiting Ronald McDonald House

Volunteer Location: Garfield Park Program Center, Garfield Pkwy, Garfield Heights, OH 44125  

Time: 3 - 4:30 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 20

Eligibility: Interfaith families and individuals of all ages

Project Details: Family-friendly collection and packing project for Ronald McDonald House

REGISTER>>

Mandel Jewish Community Center

Volunteer Location: Mandel JCC, 26001 S. Woodland Rd, Beachwood, OH 44122

Time: 1 - 3 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 8

Eligibility: Ages 13+ (teens must be accompanied by an adult)

Project Details: Help clean gym and play supplies and equipment, and move items from one closet space to another. 

REGISTER >>

National Council of Jewish Women

Volunteer Location: 26055 Emory Road, Unit H, Warrensville Heights, OH 44128

Time: 10 - 11:30 am

Number of Volunteers Needed: 10

Eligibility: Ages 13+ (with an adult)

Project Details: Sort, clean, and label donated books to be distributed to Little Free Libraries. Bring books to donate! 

REGISTER >>

PJ Library® Young Families

Volunteer Location: Providence House East Campus, 11801 Buckeye Road, Cleveland, OH 44120

Time: 11 am - 12:30 pm 

Number of Volunteers Needed: 15 families

Eligibility: Families with children ages 5+

Project Details: Make tie blankets to benefit Providence House

REGISTER >>

Providence House

Volunteer Location: Providence House East Campus, 11801 Buckeye Road, Cleveland, OH 44120

Time: 11 am – 12:30 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 15

Eligibility: Ages 18+

Project Details: Sort and label inventory in the warehouse

REGISTER >>

Rescue Village - Geauga Humane Society

Volunteer Location: 15463 Chillicothe Rd, Novelty, OH 44072

Time: 10 am – 12 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 15

Eligibility: Ages 10+ (with an adult)

Project Details: Sort donations, do laundry, clean out closets and storage areas, prepare materials for events, or outdoor activities like yard work, hose out crates, and clean the barn and trails

REGISTER >>

Blood Drive with Vitalant

Volunteer Location: Gross Schechter Day School, 27601 Fairmount, Pepper Pike 

Time: 11 am - 3 pm

Number of Volunteers Needed: 20

Eligibility: Ages 16+ and eligible to donate blood

Project Details: Blood donations

REGISTER >> 

We sat down with Director of Operations, Violeta Stolpen when she was recently in Cleveland, to find out how the two communities work together to create cohesiveness.

This is 5 Questions With ... Violeta Stolpen.

Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News

by Jimmy Oswald

Jim Hartnett, the David P. Miller Director of Community Wide Security at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, advised that upon notification early on the morning of Feb. 28 that the U.S., and Israel were attacking Iran, he immediately initiated contact with the Cleveland FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Ohio Department of Public Safety and area police chiefs to discuss the Jewish community’s security situation and request added police visibility at area synagogues.

Hartnett

Throughout the year, the Federation and its security provider, JFC Security, conduct exercises with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to prepare and pre-plan for periods when the threat level to our community is elevated due to geopolitical events. That way, they are not caught off-guard and scrambling to address the safety concerns of the community.

“We do a lot of pre-planning and preparation for just these types of events,” Hartnett, a former FBI supervisor, told the Cleveland Jewish News. “We saw the warning clouds building that there was potential for this conflict to jump off. We work throughout the year with all of our agencies, the Jewish schools and synagogues, to prepare them with the appropriate training and preparation for any type of elevated threat to the community.”

The Federation’s community security initiative has been set up for over a dozen years, and Hartnett said that the established security program has had experience when attacks have come against the Jewish community, such as the Tree of Life synagogue shooting on Oct. 27, 2018, in Pittsburgh, the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led invasion of Israel and the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June 2025, and increased the threat level around the country.

Britton

“It’s never business as usual because then you become complacent,” Hartnett said. “One of the first things we do is connect with our law enforcement partners. I was on the phone and in communication early Saturday morning, as soon as the conflict started, with area police chiefs, the head of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force here in Cleveland and all of the appropriate security partners with work with to touch base and see if there are any known threats or intelligence that needs to be broadcast out to the community.”

Beachwood Police Chief Daniel Grispino said that when significant international events occur that could have a local impact, they “proactively assess our security posture.”

“Out of an abundance of caution, we increase visibility and patrol presence around Jewish institutions, including synagogues and the (Mandel) Jewish Community Center (of Cleveland),” he told the CJN. “The Beachwood Police Department takes a preventive approach to community safety. We maintain ongoing intelligence monitoring in coordination with state and federal partners to ensure we are aware of any emerging threats. Due to security concerns, I will not discuss all of our proactive measures, however we utilize the latest in law enforcement technology to ensure the safety of our community and visitors.”

Grispino

In Cleveland Heights, Police Chief Chris Britton said that officers are directed to increase vigilance, maintain high visibility and up their patrols in and around sensitive locations.

“As chief of police, I recognize that international conflicts can create fear and uncertainty locally, particularly within Jewish communities,” he told the CJN. “Out of an abundance of caution, we have adjusted our strategic deployment to enhance visibility around Jewish institutions. This includes supplementing our regular patrols and coordinating with officers already working secondary details at schools and community facilities.”

University Heights Police Chief Dustin Rogers said that the department has “been coordinating with our law enforcement partners and JFC Security to further enhance safety and security in the community” since the attacks started on Feb. 28.

“This has included additional resources being deployed in the field, and preventative patrols and special details occurring at Jewish institutions in the city,” he said.

Rogers

Purim began on the evening of March 2 and many Jewish institutions had festivities over the weekend and through the holiday on March 3. Hartnett said the security team makes sure that they are made aware of these celebrations so they can recommend appropriate security to be added.

“We notify all the area police departments and make them aware of these celebrations to provide extra attention or even for the purposes of them having off-duty officers assigned to those events,” he said. “Some of the advice we give to the community is to be hyper alert to what’s going on as far as your surroundings, because individuals that could potentially be looking to identify a weakness in our security do their homework. You need to report suspicious activity as soon as possible.”

Institutions are also encouraged to ensure that the facilities’ cameras, locks, alarms and panic buttons are tested and working. Educating the staff to pay extra attention to their environment is a good idea, as well, Hartnett said.

“Officers are trained to watch for anything out of the ordinary, including suspicious behavior, unfamiliar vehicles or activity that appears inconsistent with the normal environment,” Britton said. “Our goal is early detection and proactive prevention. The Cleveland Heights Police Department has long maintained strong, collaborative relationships with local institutions, including Jewish organizations and the Jewish Federation. We communicate regularly, share information with our law enforcement partners and work together to ensure preparedness and rapid response to any potential threats.”

Grispino said that they have a “strong and collaborative” relationship with their Jewish institutions which helps with an open line of communication, which is ongoing year-round regardless of threat level.

“We routinely check in with community leaders at the Jewish Federation, and they contact us directly if they have concerns,” he said. “That partnership is built on trust, transparency and shared responsibility for safety. A police department is most effective when we collaborate with the community.”

Hartnett said that he encourages the Jewish community to look for something that seems out of place, a person or item that is not consistent with what you typically see on a daily or weekly basis. If there are concerns, contact the local police department and follow up with Federation security.

“No one knows the Jewish community like the Jewish community,” he said. “And through the Federation, we offer community security training that is at the highest level. We recommend every member of the Jewish community take advantage of being educated through our three core training programs: situational awareness, active threat mitigation and stop the bleed. We are happy to offer that through our open training at the Mandel JCC monthly or they can send an email to me and request it, and I’ll be happy to arrange it.”

How to contact JFC Security

Join your Federation for one of our many engaging experiences across our community, including two timely webinars about the conflict in the Middle East, inspiring art and culture events, and volunteer opportunities. There’s something for everyone to enjoy this month.

March 4
Our Local Community: An Update on Jewish Cleveland’s Security

Hear directly from Jim Hartnett, the David P. Miller director of community-wide security; Oren Baratz, senior vice president of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and senior advisor to SCN; and Daniel Grispino, chief of police of Beachwood, Ohio, as they provide timely local and national security updates, share how our community is being protected, and answer your questions.

8 pm ET (webinar) 

REGISTER >>

March 5
Standing Together: A Direct Update on Israel’s People and Our Response

As the impact of Operation Roaring Lion continues to unfold, we know that behind every headline is a human story. While the strategic news fills our feeds, the reality for families on the ground—especially in communities like Beit Shemesh—is critical.

Danyelle Neuman, Jewish Agency for Israel’s chief development officer, will provide a situational report on how the conflict is reshaping the lives of Israelis and how the Jewish Agency is pivoting to meet these unprecedented needs.

Ruthi Shenfeld, director of Youth Futures, will join us to share the firsthand impact on children and families in Beit Shemesh following the attacks this past week.

1:00 pm ET (webinar) 

REGISTER >>

March 12
Ben-Gurion Society's Night at the Museum

Members of the Ben-Gurion Society* are invited to an exclusive evening at the Western Reserve Historical Society, home to the Cleveland Jewish Archives.

Together, we will celebrate the success of the 2026 Campaign for Jewish Needs and learn about Federation’s impact at home and in Israel. 

7 - 9 pm

Western Reserve Historical Society
10825 East Blvd, Cleveland

$18 per person

REGISTER >>

*The Ben-Gurion Society includes all donors, ages 22-45, who commit a minimum gift of $1,000 to the annual Campaign for Jewish Needs.

March 15
Contemporary Visions of Israel: Exhibition Opening & Meet the Curator 

Please join us for a behind the scenes look at the Roe Green Gallery's latest exhibition, Contemporary Visions of Israel. Curator Jane Glaubinger will discuss the works, the artists, and the themes of the exhibition.

1 - 3 pm

Roe Green Gallery at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Building
25701 Science Park Drive, Beachwood

REGISTER >>

March 22
DocuNation: Embracing the Israeli Spirit
Filmmaker Conversation

Experience DocuNation: Embracing the Israeli Spirit, a powerful virtual documentary film series that captures the heartbeat of Israel—tender, courageous, and full of hope.

This multi-date series gathers films that reflect stories of resilience and creativity, kindness and connection, and the quiet heroism found in everyday life.

Each documentary will be available to stream during a 12-day viewing window, followed by a live Zoom filmmaker conversation with award-winning documentary filmmaker Yonatan Nir.

Talk-backs begin at 1:00 pm ET and conclude at 2:00 pm ET, moderated by Cathy Stamler, Film Chair, Cleveland Israel Arts Connection.

A Heartbeart Away
Available: March 12 - March 30
Filmmaker Conversation: March 22

REGISTER >> 

March 26
Monthly Food Packing with Lifeline Ministries 

Federation's Jewish Volunteer Network (JVN) is pleased to partner with East Mt. Zion Baptist Church and Lifeline Ministries to pack food parcels at the end of each month as SNAP benefits begin to dwindle for many people. The packages are delivered to those in need who live in the neighborhood of the church.

9:15 - 11 am 

East Mt. Zion Baptist Church
9990 Euclid Ave, Cleveland

REGISTER >> 

When more than 20 bomb shelters in Cleveland's sister city of Beit Shean, Israel needed repairs, the Jewish Cleveland community stepped up.

Renovations to these spaces came at such a critical time including building classrooms, repairing pipes, installing generators, refrigerators, and air conditioners, and more.

In response to the escalation of "Operation Roaring Lion", the Jewish Federation of Cleveland is making a $1M emergency grant to the Jewish Agency’s Operation Roaring Lion Fund.

The Current Crisis

The recent Iran strikes have caused significant damage to Israel’s civilian infrastructure. At the time of this writing, we have seen 11 lives lost, approximately 150 injuries, and thousands of buildings damaged or destroyed. This fund is a specialized iteration of the Fund for Victims of Terror (FVOT), designed specifically to address the unique demands of this conflict.

Since 2002, the FVOT has served as a cornerstone of global Jewish solidarity. Chaired by former MK Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin and managed alongside the Ministry of Defense and the National Insurance Institute, the Fund ensures resources are allocated with professional oversight and maximum efficiency. Since October 7, 2023, the Fund has expanded its reach significantly:

• Immediate Relief: Provided emergency grants to over 10,000 families.
• Trauma Support: Launched 140+ group intervention programs reaching 5,000 beneficiaries.
• Scalability: Recognized as a primary vehicle for trauma recovery where state aid may be limited.

The "Operation Roaring Lion" Response Plan

The Jewish Agency is preparing for three potential impact scenarios (ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 households). The proposed funding will support:

• Direct Financial Assistance: * Immediate and multi-year rehabilitation grants for bereaved families and the injured.
  • Targeted support for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children.
• Municipal & Resiliency Support: * Funding for 3–9 municipalities (such as Beit Shemesh, which sustained direct hits this week) to support evacuees and those who have lost their homes.
  • Strengthening local resilience through group therapeutic interventions.

Given the urgency of the need, we are providing $1 million to the Operation Roaring Lion Fund to ensure the Jewish Agency can provide emergency relief within the critical 72-hour window.

To donate to the Israel Emergency Campaign, visit donate.jewishcleveland.org/israel.

We stand with the American and Israeli forces – as well as those of our allies – who are risking their lives to neutralize this threat to freedom.

While events continue to unfold, we want to update you from our constant contact with our partners and colleagues in Israel, as well as the steps we are taking here in Cleveland:

Our Young Leadership Weinberg Mission is currently in Israel. Maddy Mizrachi, YLD director, shared with us the resiliency of this group:

This morning, we were notified by “red alert” sirens that Israel began an attack on Iran. Although we ended the Mission early for travelers to get home, most of the participants were supposed to leave today. When they arrived at the airport, they were quickly rerouted back to Jerusalem. Since then, we have been staying together, going in and out of the shelter room, and supporting each other the best way we can. We are safe!

All of us were moved when, upon arriving in the shelter this morning, other Israelis staying in the hotel began dancing, singing, “Od Yoter Tov,” and “Am Yisrael Chai,” lighting the spirits of all of us strangers in the underground shelter. That’s the spirit of the people of Israel and it’s contagious. We are all stronger together. 

YLD Chair Jillian Nataupsky shared:

The Weinberg Mission has been nothing short of incredible. Seeing firsthand our far-reaching impact in so many places instilled a sense of pride in me that I have never felt before. While this trip is not ending the way any of us would have hoped, I have never felt safer or more supported both by Israeli and Cleveland communities. We are in good spirits and hoping for this conflict to end soon. I am unbelievably grateful to the Jewish Federation of Cleveland for the opportunity to spend time in this remarkable country and can’t wait to share the stories I heard with others when I return.

The safety of those participating in programs like this – has always been (and will always be) our highest priority. We are focused on bringing them home safely.

Local Security. With the start of the military operation Israel’s government is calling “Roaring Lion”, our Federal law enforcement partners are warning us that the Jewish community could be targeted in the United States. Area police have increased patrols around Jewish facilities and throughout our neighborhoods.  JFC Security, LLC – Federation’s security provider – has been working with law enforcement to be on heightened alert for any possible action against our community. We are advising organizations to stay open and remain vigilant.

During this time especially, you play a critical role in helping to keep Jewish Cleveland safe and welcoming. Stay alert to anything that seems out of place or out of the ordinary and call 911 immediately. We are blessed to live in an area where local law enforcement cares so deeply for the safety of all citizens.

We know that many in Israel and throughout the Middle East have been navigating very difficult circumstances. We know that many in our community have kids, family, and close friends who have been in and out of shelter all day today. And, we know that this latest experience only exacerbates trauma compounded by the past few years. Our message remains the same to those in our local community as well as to those in Israel and elsewhere – we will remain strong in our support.  To that end, if you know of someone who is struggling or in need of assistance, please reach out to Access Jewish Cleveland for anonymous and confidential help at 216-292-4636 or via accessjewishcleveland.org.

Jeffrey J. Wild, board chair
Erika B. Rudin-Luria, president

JFC Security helps keep Jewish Cleveland safe by promoting a “culture of security” through education, target hardening, training, and partnerships with law enforcement. Watch the video to learn more.

Coaching Circles offers women in Jewish Cleveland an open, motivating, engaging and multi-generational experience to foster leadership and personal growth through meaningful, confidential conversations with women across our community.

Each Circle is led by a skilled mentor and includes up to six dynamic women. The program will run from April to September 2026 and includes three large group sessions and four small group sessions with your Circle. The four small group session dates will be determined with your individual Coaching Circles group.

The large group sessions will take place on the evenings of:

• Opening Session on Thursday, April 16
• Middle Session on Monday, June 29
• Closing Session on Tuesday, September 15

Take the time to invest in yourself and learn about:

• Exploring a growth mindset
• Navigating difficult conversations
• Identifying your own personal purpose
• Exploring your personal connection to Jewish Cleveland

Space for the 2026 program is limited. Application deadline is Sunday, March 15 and participants will be notified by Friday, March 20.

APPLY NOW >>

Participants will be asked to consider a minimum gift of $365 to the 2027 Campaign for Jewish Needs