Lydia McBratney

On October 7th, the community of Nahal Oz was devastated by an unimaginable tragedy. Four teenagers were brutally murdered, one was kidnapped, and many others lost family members. Those who survived faced severe trauma, leading to feelings of anger, confusion, and withdrawal.

After relocating to Mishmar HaEmek, a kibbutz in Federation’s Partnership region of Yokneam/Megido, the teenagers initially struggled to engage in social interactions or participate in normal activities.

Federation stepped in to fund new educational programs aimed at re-engaging these teenagers. To aid in their healing and help rebuild a sense of community, a special trip to Greece was organized. This trip included pre-trip group sessions and ongoing support from trauma experts and youth guides.

The results were remarkable. The teenagers began to show improved behavior, punctuality, and respect. They opened up during group sessions, developed empathy, and strengthened their sense of belonging. By the end of the trip, many were discussing their traumatic experiences for the first time and seeking further psychological help.

This success has inspired other communities to adopt similar approaches.

“Attached is a heartfelt thank you letter from the community of Nahal Oz, detailing the Federations’ invaluable support for mental therapy for their youth—a top priority for the kibbutz this year,” said Eliad Eliyahu Ben Shushan, Atlanta & St. Louis Federations’ Representative in Israel Partnership Director Yokneam & Meggido- Atlanta & St. Louis. “Their healing journey to Greece exemplifies how the Federations’ assistance met a crucial need that could not have been addressed without your help. Thank you for your continued support.”

Federation is committed to partnering with Kibbutz Nahal Oz over the next three years as the community recovers from the traumatic attack it endured on October 7th. This partnership is part of a Jewish agency initiative called “Communities Together”,  in which communities from the Gaza region are paired with Jewish communities worldwide to support their healing. This initiative is supported by the Israel Emergency Campaign.

Michael Kogon’s commitment to legacy and nurturing the next Jewish generation is deeply ingrained in his DNA. With strong Atlanta roots, Michael fondly recalls attending minyan at Ahavath Achim Synagogue with his grandfather, participating in BBYO youth group events, and attending Sunday morning Federation meetings with his family. His parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents exemplified what it means to care for the local Jewish community, demonstrating steadfast actions and a commitment to philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism.

For Michael, signing the Jewish Future Promise (JFP) was an obvious choice. This moral commitment encourages individuals to allocate at least 50% of their charitable contributions after passing to Jewish causes and/or the State of Israel.

Founded by Atlanta philanthropist and community leader Mike Leven, in collaboration with Amy Holtz, JFP aims to help Jewish families prioritize sharing Jewish stories, values, and traditions with loved ones. The Promise is a moral, not legal, commitment. In today’s climate, uniting the Jewish community in support of itself and Israel is more critical than ever.

When asked about the Jewish causes closest to his heart, Michael emphasized his passion for the Federation: “Being Jewish in the world has always been and will always be unpredictable. The only thing that can help us navigate that unpredictability is Federation. It supports our entire Jewish community, regardless of the challenges we face.”

In the Cohen-Kogon family, the connection to Jewish life, values, and causes remains strong. Conversations around the Shabbat dinner table have long focused on Israel, Jewish education, and local communal needs, passing on a culture of philanthropy.

This is one of the powerful outcomes of Jewish Future Promise. JFP encourages families to discuss legacy, philanthropy, and Jewish values meaningfully, helping shape similar conversations around Shabbat dinner tables across the country.

Embedding this practice into family life inspires new opportunities for growth, resources, development, and services for the Jewish community. It fosters an attitude of gratitude, appreciating the contributions of past philanthropists and eagerly giving back.

Michael recalls a pivotal moment during a transformational Jewish experience in college when he participated in a UJA trip to Poland and Israel in the 1980s. “Seeing post-Holocaust Poland and then visiting Israel, which at the time felt like a resistance movement to the Holocaust, made me angry. It showed me that we must protect ourselves because no one else will. That’s when I transitioned from being a consumer of Jewish activity to a worker for Jewish activity.” 

Articulating one’s legacy is a key part of the JFP process. For Michael, his legacy is a link in the unbreakable chain of the Cohen-Kogon family, a lineage of dedicated philanthropists and community leaders who have shaped Jewish Atlanta for generations.

In reflecting on the enduring impact of his family’s contributions, Michael encapsulates the essence of their shared commitment: “When thinking about my family’s legacy, I like to think of it as this: Our pin on the map has always been deeply rooted and ready to take on whatever the future brought. My ancestors helped build the community in which I’m living, with an emphasis on the word ‘helped’ – not ‘build’. It has been a collective effort of many multigenerational families together.”

To learn more about Jewish Future Promise and strengthen Jewish ATL for the next generation, click here or contact Rachel Rosner at rrosner@jewishatlanta.org.

Over the past year, Federation’s Jewish Education Collaborative awarded $12,155 in grant funding through its “Building On Our Strengths Together” (B.O.O.S.T.) Micro-Grants program, benefiting over 825 Jewish students in the metro Atlanta area.

The B.O.O.S.T Grants are provided to education directors in supplemental Jewish education programs to foster innovation and creativity in Jewish learning. The aim is to transform these programs to become more dynamic and engaging, encouraging children to develop a lasting connection with their Jewish heritage. Additionally, the grants help eliminate financial barriers that might prevent educators from experimenting with new teaching methods and ideas.

Examples of innovative programs funded by these grants include experiential outdoor education, beekeeping to teach environmental stewardship, and science and engineering activities integrated with Jewish learning.

“Jewish tradition may be thousands of years old, but there are always new and fresh ways to teach it,” said Rabbi Elana Perry, Federation’s Director of Jewish Education. “Grants that support creative innovation help to engage kids with what they are passionate about so that Jewish learning sticks with them for life.”

FY25 will include two B.O.O.S.T grant cycles. Three new grants have already been approved for the Fall, and another application cycle will open in October.

Hillels of Georgia is excited to kick off the new academic year by welcoming new and returning Jewish students and their families to college campuses across the state.

Committed to fostering a sense of safety and connection, Hillels across Georgia are helping students feel welcome within their Jewish communities and the broader campus environment. To achieve this, their back-to-school programming, scheduled over the next several weeks, is thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming “Jewish home away from home” on campus.

Many students have found that Hillel is where they build lifelong friendships.

“As a first year, I met some of my closest friends at Hillel’s back to school programming. Since then, I look forward to back-to-school programs because it gives me a chance to reconnect with Jewish life on campus before the start of the High Holy Days,” said Maya Rezak, Emory Hillel Student Body President, Class of 2025. “My advice to incoming students is to be open to trying new things. There are so many activities to choose from and so many ways to be involved in Hillel, you can find the programs that speak to you!”

Hillels of Georgia recently marked its 20th anniversary, a milestone that is celebrated by its supporters, including the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. Federation invested $488,000 in Hillels of Georgia in 2024 in addition to security and mental health resources.

“Hillel is a safe space on campus for students to experience Jewish joy and celebrate the beauty of Jewish life,” said Rabbi Larry Sernovitz, CEO of Hillels of Georgia. “In these challenging times, safety and security are immensely important. Knowing there is a community on campus that supports them is critical for our students and the development of their Jewish identity.”

Each Hillel across the state offers unique events during these initial weeks, including bagel brunches, happy hours, learning sessions, Shabbat dinners, and movie nights. For a comprehensive list of upcoming events and ways to get involved, please visit the social media pages and websites of the respective campuses. Inquiries can also be sent to info@hillelsofgeorgia.org.

In response to the ongoing emergency in Ukraine, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta raised over $2.6 million to support those directly impacted by the war. Partnering with Jewish Federations of North America, Jewish Agency for Israel, and the Joint Distribution Committee, North American Jewish communities have collectively raised $73 million for this cause.

World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ), one of Federation’s global allocations partners, recently received a Federation grant via the Ukraine Emergency Fund to support its “Bringing Light and Freedom to our Ukrainian Congregants Project”.

Through the Ukraine Emergency Fund, Federation provided a special grant of $55,000 to WUPJ, which is being used to supply food, medication, heat, generators, and power banks to individuals living in Belarus.

“On behalf of the entire WUPJ, we would like to express our gratitude to the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta for the ongoing support of our projects,” said Claudia Laurelli, Executive Assistant in the Office of the President, World Union for Progressive Judaism.

Founded in 1926, WUPJ represents 1.8 million Reform, Progressive, and Liberal Jews across six continents, 50 countries, and 1,200 communities.

Federation’s support also extends to WUPJ’s branch in Belarus, which focuses on engaging youth and young adults in meaningful Jewish activities. This includes support for summer camps, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and early childhood education programs, helping to create vibrant Jewish experiences for families and communities.

Mark your calendars for the Community Campaign Kick-Off on September 5 at 7 PM in Sandy Springs! With this year’s theme being ‘Better Together’, the event promises an evening of celebration, connection, and excitement as we launch the 2025 Community Campaign.

This event marks the Federation’s first community Kick-Off since 2020. We will focus on celebrating our community’s resilience and perseverance through challenging times, offering a valuable opportunity for community members to reconnect, strengthen bonds, and stand in unity as Jewish ATL.

Stacey Fisher, Federation’s 2025 Campaign Chair, is especially enthusiastic about the event. “The theme of this year’s Community Campaign is ‘Better Together’, because we know that as a community, we are all stronger when we support one another and come together as one,” said Stacey. “This year, we are focusing on building, strengthening, and securing our community, and we can only do that as one united Jewish ATL. We hope you’ll join us at the 2025 Community Kick-Off on September 5th so we can jump into the new campaign year together!”  

Eliad Eliyahu Ben Shushan, our Federation’s Representative in Israel and Partnership Director for Yokneam Meggido, will also be in attendance and speaking at the event.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the 2025 Community Campaign Kick-off event co-chairs, Ryan Silberman and Karen Shulman, for their dedication and support of our Federation and the Atlanta Jewish community.

Let’s make this Kick-Off a memorable start to the 2025 campaign—because we are truly Better Together!

Be sure to register early to secure your spot!

(Due to capacity limits, registration is essential for security purposes. The deadline to register is August 29.) 

The impact of the 2024 Hunger Walk is in!

The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta just received the most updated impact report from this year’s Atlanta Community Food Bank Hunger Walk, highlighting our incredible commitment and impact on this initiative.

On March 10th, 3,859 participants came together to raise money to end hunger in Metro Atlanta. Thanks to the incredible efforts of Carla Birnbaum, Federation’s Relational Engagement Manager, there were 44 Federation teams – double the number of teams from the previous year!

“This year, through the Hunger Walk, we’ve had the privilege of supporting 12 Atlanta-based hunger relief organizations whose work is vital to our community,” Carla said. “Our dedicated team captains demonstrate unwavering commitment, prioritizing local hunger relief as a steadfast mission. Their dedication ensures we uplift and support Atlanta’s most vulnerable citizens, inspiring us all to make a tangible and lasting difference.”

The Federation teams raised an impressive $72,683 for hunger relief, contributing to a combined $219,000 across all participating teams. In total, the 2024 Hunger Walk raised $1,034,000, providing over 3.1 million meals to those in need.

Federation is deeply grateful to everyone who participated and made this event a success. We look forward to next year when metro Atlanta can once again come together to #EndHunger in the community!

Make a Will Month is a nationwide initiative encouraging individuals to create or update their wills, ensuring their wishes are honored and their legacies preserved. This initiative spans across the professional advising landscape, urging everyone to take action in planning their estates.

For the Jewish community, Make a Will Month represents an important opportunity to underscore the significance of leaving a lasting legacy. Through the LIFE & LEGACY® program, Federation highlights various ways our community members can support Jewish institutions and causes they care about, ensuring that these values and traditions are carried forward.

Including the Jewish community in a will allows individuals to contribute to the ongoing support and development of organizations that are meaningful to them.

Mike Leven, Founder of Jewish Future Promise, shared his reflections at the Atlanta Jewish Foundation’s 2024 Grow a Legacy event: “This is what I grew up with; when I had pennies in my pocket, I put them in this [Tzedakah] box. Every Friday afternoon, around three o’clock, someone would come to our door with a sack, collect the box, and give us a new one. But the truth is, we’re all doing this, even without the box. The people in this room are all committed Jewish individuals. We need to continue this practice and ensure our future generations carry it on.” 

The LIFE & LEGACY program simplifies the process by allowing anyone to make commitments to multiple organizations in one place, eliminating the need to approach each one individually. This can include synagogues, schools, community service agencies, or any Jewish institutions that have made a significant impact.

Benefits of Leaving a Legacy:

• Ensuring Future Support: Contributions help secure the necessary funding to sustain the Jewish community and its values for future generations.
• Promoting Jewish Values: Publicly committing to leaving a legacy encourages younger generations to embrace Tzedakah (charity) and community support.
• Personal Impact: Individuals have the flexibility to direct funding to organizations that matter most to them, whether it’s a synagogue, a Jewish camp, PJ Library, or another cherished cause.

By participating in Make a Will Month and including the Jewish community in a will, individuals help preserve and promote the rich traditions and values that define the Jewish community. Federation aims to ensure that future generations continue to thrive with the support of Jewish institutions.

Learn more about Jewish Future Promise or contact the Atlanta Jewish Foundation to get started.

Metro Atlanta families raising Jewish children will now have more opportunities to engage in Jewish life thanks to a recent $25,000 engagement grant awarded by PJ Library! 

PJ Library, a flagship program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, provides free Jewish books and programming to families raising Jewish children worldwide. 

This grant will support the Federation’s JBaby Expansion initiative in Intown Atlanta—a rapidly growing area within the Jewish community that currently has limited Jewish infrastructure. As families move to this area, they are seeking new Jewish experiences distinct from those available in more established Jewish neighborhoods. This expansion aims to fulfill that need by bringing the popular JBaby small groups and increased programming to Intown neighborhoods.

In the past three years the JBaby program, which is run under the PJ Library umbrella, has expanded to reach over 400 families. “The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is honored to receive this grant and thrilled to be part of the global PJ Library community, which distributes books in seven languages to more than 650,000 children in over 40 countries every month,” said Pam Cohen, PJ Library Manager. 

We are proud to be among the 29 PJ Library chapters from the United States and Canada selected to receive this grant through a competitive application process.

To learn more or get involved in JBaby, head here.

BeWellATL’s inaugural Teen Roundtable was a tremendous success! This program is inspiring more community members to get involved and support efforts in raising awareness and destigmatizing mental health.  

BeWellATL is part of a broader Jewish Federation of North America national initiative that addresses mental health issues within the Jewish community and is coordinated locally by JF&CS. It collaborates with Atlanta community partners dedicated to promoting mental wellness while supporting young Jewish people ages 12-26.  BeWellATL provides the community with essential tools, resources, and training to achieve these goals.  

The first Teen Mental Health Roundtable, which is a proud grantee of Jumpspark and organized by JF&CS, began in January 2024 and includes a diverse group of nine Jewish teens. The group has already made significant progress, including the creation of “Tackling Tough Topics” cards. These cards are a crucial tool for fostering open and meaningful conversations about mental health and bridging the communication gap between generations, making it easier for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to engage with teens on these important issues. 

A 16-year-old participant shared, “I did the cards with my dad and stepmom—it was amazing. I learned so much more about my family, tears were shed, hugs were given. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect. Even after we stopped using the cards, the conversation continued. Thanks for creating these!” 

A BeWellATL parent noted, “The ‘Tackling Tough Topics’ cards have been an incredible resource for my family. They’ve sparked conversations we were previously too afraid to start. It’s heartening to see my teens engaging and expressing their feelings more openly.” 

The “Tackling Tough Topics” cards have been widely distributed and are in high demand within the community, highlighting the urgent need for such resources. 

“As mental health remains a critical topic of conversation, these cards provide a practical and approachable way to address and discuss tough topics,” said Jessica Sacks, JF&CS Community Outreach Coordinator.   

The application process for the next cohort of the Teen Mental Health Roundtable is open for a few more weeks, offering new teens the chance to join this impactful initiative and participate in a community-wide event in Spring 2025. 

Click here to see the BeWellATL flyer with detailed information about the program and upcoming events. You can also email BeWellATL@jfcsatl.org with additional questions. 

Drum roll, please…

The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta’s FY24 Community Campaign is allocating $37,659,558 in community impact! 

As we close the books on FY2024, we are filled with immense gratitude and pride. This past year has been a testament to the power of our community’s generosity, resilience, and shared vision to strengthen Jewish ATL, Israel, and Jewish communities around the world. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our donors for your unwavering support and dedication during a year of immense heartbreak, triumph, and unity.

Your contributions have enabled us to achieve remarkable milestones. Through your generosity, we have expanded our programs, raised $12.5 million for Israel via our Israel Emergency Campaign, reached more individuals and families in need, and strengthened our community bonds.

Highlights of our achievements this year include: 

• Enhanced Services: With your support, we have been able to introduce new services and improve existing ones, ensuring that our community members receive the assistance, security, and care they deserve. This includes $1.1 million in security funding for infrastructure and personnel across the community.
• Community Outreach:  Our outreach programs have touched the lives of countless individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and support within the community. This includes $1.2 million in funding for programs that serve young adults, interfaith families, and Federation’s Gather Grants initiative.
• Education and Empowerment:  We have invested in educational initiatives that empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive. This includes over $2.1 million in direct funding to schools, educator professional development, and development of innovative curricula.
• Standing Strong with Israel: One of the most significant endeavors of this past year was our Israel Emergency Campaign (IEC)  which was launched immediately after October 7th. IEC raised $12.5 million for Israel to address both immediate and long-term needs on the ground.

Highlights of the Israel Emergency Campaign include: 

• Rapid Response: Thanks to your quick and generous donations, we were able to mobilize resources swiftly, providing critical aid to those affected by the emergency.
• Sustainable Support: Beyond immediate relief, your contributions have helped lay the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience in affected communities.
• Global Solidarity: This campaign has not only supported those in need but also reinforced the bond of solidarity within our global community, demonstrating that we stand together in times of crisis.

(To learn more about our work in Israel since October 7, please visit our Israel Emergency Campaign Impact Report here.)

As we reflect on our past successes, we are also looking forward to the future with renewed determination and optimism. Together, we will continue to build on our achievements, address new challenges, and create a brighter future for all.

Thank you for making the Fiscal Year 2024 a resounding success. Your contributions have made a profound impact, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership. Here’s to another year of growth, resilience, and strength as a united Jewish ATL.

We are so thrilled to welcome David Fisher as our new Interim CEO at Federation! David has spent almost all of his adult life volunteering in the Jewish community alongside his professional endeavors and is now excited to join our team.  

Originally from Cincinnati, David grew up at Jewish summer camp in northern Wisconsin, which he later owned. In 1986, as he was entering his senior year of college, he and his brothers were approached by the camp owners and asked if they’d be interested in buying the camp, as they were ready to retire. They decided to buy it, and David ran the camp for the next six summers.

He became involved in the Jewish Federation of North America’s (JFNA) Young Leadership Cabinet and co-chaired the initiative with a fellow Atlantan in early 2003. He then became the National Campaign Chair for JFNA in 2007. 

In 2011 after many years of volunteering in the Jewish community, he was selected to become the CEO of the Birthright Israel Foundation. A few years later, in 2015, he and his wife, Stacy, moved to Atlanta, where they’ve been ever since. 

As for his vision for the next fiscal year, David feels there is so much opportunity in Federation and Jewish ATL. Since October 7, David describes the notion of “October 8 Jews” – Jews who now have a renewed interest in Jewish life here in Atlanta, causing an increased demand and need for Federation’s programming, services, and community leadership. 

“There is a lot of opportunity for greater engagement here at Federation. It’s going to require more resources, and I think there’s energy to do that,” said David. “We need to do a better job of educating people on what we do and why it’s so important to continue to invest in the community, because there’s so much opportunity that people want to take advantage of today.” 

Welcome to the Federation team, David! 

The Breman and the Museum of History and Holocaust Education at Kennesaw State University recently teamed up to bring a group of Georgia teachers from 14 counties on a four-day trip to New York for their first annual Teacher Ambassador Program. The purpose of this initiative is to create more invested, competent, expert teachers in Holocaust education so they can better share this knowledge with their students in their local schools. 

“It was an incredible honor to be a teacher ambassador, come together with a like-minded group of educators, and work with KSU and the Breman. They have a remarkable partnership that truly makes an impact in Holocaust education across Georgia,” said Holly Salazar, a teacher from Forsyth County. “The Federation’s Innovation Initiative was generous enough to help us fulfill the vision of helping Georgia-based teachers become deeply invested in Holocaust education and then share that passion with others,” said Rabbi Joseph Prass, Director of The Breman’s Weinberg Center for Holocaust Education. 

Some highlights from the mid-June trip were visits to the Eldridge Street Synagogue, the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, YIVO Institute for Jewish Research, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. “My experience with working with The Breman Museum and KSU has been phenomenal! I could not promote this educational program more,” said one teacher from Butts County who participated, Calie Bates. “The wealth of knowledge learned on this trip and through this program has helped to introduce me, hook me, and motivate me to continue learning about antisemitism in America and abroad.” 

Federation’s investment in Holocaust education for teachers is well worth it. Andrea Miskewicz, the Interim Executive Director of the Museum of History and Holocaust Education at Kennesaw State University, surveyed 25 of their teacher partners, and 96% said they spend more time on the topic after traveling because they are inspired and have a deeper knowledge base.

“The funding from Federation has inspired teachers to spend significantly more time in Holocaust education and Jewish life and culture.” Andrea said. “As an educator, this was a highlight of my career, and I know the teachers feel the same way.”

Andrea and Rabbi Prass are already planning for subsequent cohorts. They are going international with the next one with plans to visit Munich, Dachau, Nuremberg, and more. 

“We are so grateful to Federation for being supportive of this because it really is making a significant impact,” said Andrea. “It’s just amazing and and we’re so thankful.”

Through Federation’s national partnership with Secure Community Network (SCN), the Federation Community-Wide Security Program works to enhance the safety and security of the Greater Atlanta Jewish community. Recently, two security events took place to foster a culture of empowerment, collaboration, and vigilance, ensuring that all Jewish organizations operate safely and securely. 

The first was on June 24 for Major’s Night Out, an opportunity for Toco Hills residents to meet their Precinct Commander, Major E. McCown, and share their concerns and thoughts about safety and crime in the Toco Hills community. Federation’s Community Security Director (CSD) Brian Davis accompanied him as he visited local businesses to discuss security issues, concerns, and solutions for local store owners. The Major, knowing the Toco Hills area had a large centralized orthodox Jewish community, asked Brian to join him. 

Prior to that, on June 17, Brian presented at the Chabad Rabbis Conference to share crucial insights and resources dedicated to ensuring the safety of their community.

Brian discussed current safety concerns facing the community, emphasizing the support provided by the Jewish Federation and the Secure Community Network. He outlined various training programs designed to empower individuals, including Situational Awareness, Countering Active Threat, and Stop the Bleed.

Each training is aimed to equip community members with the skills needed to respond effectively in emergencies. He spoke about comprehensive threats, vulnerability, and risk assessments offered to all community partners and organizations. Brian also highlighted the personalized consultations available to organizations, ensuring they received the best practice security recommendations tailored to their specific needs. 

“It is imperative for our community to actively participate in our security training events. By doing so, we can collectively empower our facilities, staff, and congregants with the critical knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard what matters most to us,” said Brian. “These training sessions are designed not only to enhance our preparedness but also to foster a sense of unity and resilience. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.” 

The session ended on a note of solidarity and proactive engagement, as the rabbis left with a renewed sense of purpose and the assurance that they were not alone in their mission to safeguard their community. 

The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta had strong delegation participation in last week’s Jewish Federation of North America (JFNA) Financial Resource Development Mission in Berlin and Israel. Participants included 2025 Community Campaign Chair, Stacey Fisher, Board Chair, Beth Arogeti, Board Vice-Chair, Debbie Kuniansky, 2027 Community Campaign Chair, Carolyn Oppenheimer, and Marsha Hurwitz, Senior VP for Campaign & Major Gifts.

“Atlanta had the largest delegation from one community from across North America – underscoring our love and commitment to ATL, Israel and world Jewry,” shared Marsha.

The group explored significant historical sites, such as The Platform 17 Memorial at Grunewald Station, to commemorate the thousands of Jews who were deported from Berlin on Deutsche Reichsbahn trains.

“We have seen with our own eyes and felt with our own hearts the strength and resilience of the Jewish people throughout history,“ said Beth Arogeti, Federation Board Chair. “Working together, our collective good deeds will ensure thriving Jewish communities around the world for generations to come.”

In Israel, they visited sights in the south that were brutally attacked on October 7 including Kibbutz Nir Oz and the site of the Nova music festival. They saw firsthand the devastation and heard heartbreaking tales from that day from those whose family members were murdered or kidnapped.

“The ripple effects from this tragedy run far and deep, and the conflict is still quite active in Northern Israel as well. The help dispatched from Israeli organizations was immediate and only possible because of the building blocks the Federation has been investing in for decades,” said 2025 Community Campaign Chair, Stacey Fisher. “It is clear that through our philanthropy in the Israel Emergency fund and annual campaign, Jewish Atlanta is part of the rebuilding and hope both in Berlin and Israel. I have never been prouder to serve and express our community’s care and commitment to Israel and the Jewish people.” 

“Our trip to Berlin and Israel was filled with horror and hope. We witnessed the atrocities of October 7 and visited memorials of the murdered Jews of Germany. Yet we saw the programs and progress that has been made to help resettle Jews that escaped from the Ukraine. Both in Israel and in Germany, we  provide housing, therapy, and ongoing programs to help the Jews  continue to live and thrive in this uncertain time,” said 2027 Community Campaign Chair, Carolyn Oppenheimer. “In every instance, it was because of the money we raise that we have the infrastructure in place around the world to act, respond, and meet the needs of our people. If we don’t stand up for our people, no one else will.” 

Board Vice Chair, Debbie Kuniansky said, “It was difficult and necessary to bear witness to the savage attacks on people of all ages, children and elderly, men and women, and people who were raped, murdered, and kidnapped on October 7. I’ve been to Israel several times in the last 10 years, and this time was profoundly different,” said Debbie. “I didn’t feel like a tourist or an American Jew visiting the Holy Land. I felt a deeper connection to my brothers and sisters in need and to my own feelings around being a proud Zionist. I felt the weight of the fight for the right to exist. I am more committed and devoted than ever to our Federation’s work to protect and enhance the well-being of Jews worldwide and a continuing deep support for the people and the state of Israel.” 

“We are so grateful for the collective generosity of our ATL Jewish community – together, we are rebuilding lives to ensure AM YISROEL CHAI!” said Marsha.

Hundreds of people from around the world just returned home after the 2024 Ride For the Living event, which took place from June 26th to June 30th, including Atlanta’s 12-person team.

It was a memorable four-day experience where participants immersed themselves in Krakow’s Jewish past, present, and future while raising money to support the resurgence of Jewish life in Poland.

Starting with a private guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, a tour of Krakow and Poland’s largest annual Shabbat dinner, and culminating with a one-day, 60-mile bike ride from Auschwitz-Birkenau to JCC Krakow, attendees said it was a trip to remember. 

“There was a memorial service led by a rabbi from Israel at the site of the destroyed crematorium number two, which was such a poignant moment,” said Robin Sysler, Federation’s Journeys Consultant. “We recited prayers and sang Jewish songs, honoring those who perished.” 

Friday the 28th was the 60-mile Ride for the Living, which started from the gates of Auschwitz-Birkenau. This ride symbolized the journey from darkness to light as they cycled back to the JCC in Krakow, a hub for rebuilding Jewish life and providing humanitarian aid, especially to Ukrainian refugees.

“This was one of the most moving and inspiring Jewish experiences we have had abroad,” said Tamar and Mark Stern, the Atlanta Ride For the Living co-chairs. “Prior to going, we anticipated a very somber and sad experience. This was certainly true during our visit to Auschwitz, but this darkness was quickly overcome by light as we, along with 200 other Jews and non-Jews, cycled from Auschwitz to Krakow last Friday.  The countryside was gorgeous, and we were emboldened as Jews, all wearing Jewish stars on our jerseys, as we pedaled toward the city.” 

The JCC in Krakow is a beacon of hope, supporting Holocaust survivors and fostering a resurgence of Jewish life in a city once devastated by the Holocaust. It also serves as a vital center for Ukrainian refugees, offering food, housing, and mental health services. The ride itself was a testament to resilience and hope, retracing part of the route along with Marcel, a Holocaust survivor, from Auschwitz to his home. It was challenging yet deeply meaningful, symbolizing the journey of survival and renewal. 

Fundraising was a significant aspect of the event, with the goal of raising $1 million for the JCC. Thanks to the incredible generosity of many supporters, they have almost reached that goal and are still accepting donations. 

“The Ride for the Living is not only a commemoration of the past but also a celebration of life and a commitment to rebuilding and supporting communities,” Robin added. “It was a privilege to participate in this event with my family and community, and getting to witness the strength and unity of people from diverse backgrounds coming together for a common cause.”

At a recent Saturday morning Shabbat service at URJ Camp Coleman, Nina Leff, a camp counselor and BBYO teen leader in Atlanta, spoke about the impact that Shinshinim have on the Atlanta community.  

“This year has been incredibly meaningful for me with the presence of the Shinshinim in Atlanta,” Nina said during her speech. “Working closely with them in BBYO to bridge Jewish teens in our community with their peers in Israel has not only resulted in deep, lasting friendships but has also ignited a personal passion for Israeli culture within me.”  

Federation and the Jewish Agency for Israel bring Israel and Jewish Atlanta together with the Shinshinim program. Shinshinim are recent Israeli high school graduates taking a gap year before their military service. We currently host 8 of these incredible teens here in Atlanta. 

All of our Schoenbaum Shinshinim work at regional Jewish overnight camps as a culmination of their year in Atlanta. They are able to further the relationships they’ve developed with their peers like Nina, students, and host siblings. For the first time in Atlanta, all of our local BBYO chapters collaborated with the Shinshinim to host meaningful and engaging Israel programming. 

“Their leadership has been instrumental in improving our BBYO region, introducing innovative programs that have fostered participation and strengthened our ties to Jewish traditions globally,” Nina said.  

They all agreed that this program and their connections helped them recognize the importance of shared Jewish destiny and the personal significance of Israel as a homeland.  

“Through their guidance, we have experienced a renewed sense of community where diversity is embraced and our shared Jewish heritage is celebrated. Their genuine warmth and openness have allowed for an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and connected,” added Nina. “As we approach the end of their time here in America, I am filled with gratitude for the impact they have had on us. The friendships we’ve formed and the knowledge we’ve gained about Israeli customs and daily life will continue to inspire us long after they return to Israel.”  

This experience also highlighted the unique blend of secular and religious practices that enrich the identities of the Shinshinim and the communities they serve. Nina underscored the deep bonds formed through shared cultural and religious experiences, particularly in the wake of significant events like October 7.   

“Their legacy will undoubtedly shape our community’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful connections and cultural exchanges that strengthen our global Jewish family,” Nina said.  

The year-long experience fostered a stronger sense of community and connection, both in the U.S. and Israel, illustrating the transformative power of cultural and religious exchange.  

To learn more about bringing the Shinshinim program into your home, school, or organization, please reach out to Jenn Handel at JHandel@jewishatlanta.org. 

On Friday, June 28th, Congregation Ner Tamid in Marietta invited Bryan Underwood, Deputy Community Security Director for Jewish Federation/Secure Community Network, to their Shabbat service.

Afterward, they presented him with a certificate of appreciation and honored him for his unwavering dedication to keeping their community safe.

“It was really sweet, and it was certainly very much appreciated,” said Bryan Underwood, Deputy Community Security Director. “I actually have never been to a Jewish worship service, and I found it to be very educational and inspiring. It was really moving.”

“Over his two-year tenure, Bryan consistently communicated with CNT leadership, kept us informed of various updates, provided essential safety training, conducted security assessments, and consulted on our FEMA NSGP application, among many other significant contributions,” Congregation Ner Tamid wrote in a recent newsletter.

Bryan gave a few remarks after receiving his certificate. “I made sure they knew that my efforts for them were only possible because of the Federation and the Secure Community Network,” Bryan added. “I accepted the certificate on behalf of the Federation and the Secure Community Network.”

As Bryan and his family are relocating for a new career opportunity, his tenure with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is coming to an end.

“I made sure they knew that there’s a lot of support through both of those entities, and they weren’t going to lose anything just because I was leaving,” Bryan said.

Mazel Tov, Bryan! We will miss you and are so thankful for all you have done for Federation and the entire community.