On Thursday, December 12, Federation had the privilege of hosting our partners from the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) for a day of meaningful dialogue and learning.
The day began with an inspiring presentation to Federation’s professional team by Roni Lior, Deputy Director of JDC Israel’s Ashalim Division and Anna Allen, JDC Director of Strategic Partnerships. Roni shared powerful insights into JDC’s impactful initiatives across Israel, particularly in the northern region, as well as the special projects supported by Federation’s Israel Emergency Campaign, making special note of Atlanta’s contribution of $250,000 for emergency kits that have been distributed in northern communities.
Later in the evening, the delegation engaged with our global allocations committee for an in-depth discussion about JDC’s critical programs. The presentations highlighted the resilience, innovation, and dedication that define JDC’s work, especially during the challenges of the past year.
Roni Lior and Anna Allen from JDC provided an eye-opening exploration of the organization’s global impact. As a long-time Federation partner, JDC embodies the principle of Aravut—the idea that all Jews are responsible for one another.
“JDC has been doing incredible work in Israel forever, and certainly since October 7. But not just in Israel—JDC supports Jewish communities across 70 countries,” shared Roni. Known as the “global Jewish 911,” JDC responds swiftly to crises, provides aid to vulnerable Jews, builds sustainable communities, and develops future Jewish leaders.
One notable highlight was the support JDC provides in Belarus, which is part of Atlanta’s longstanding partnership in the region. “Your core allocations allow us to move swiftly during emergencies, but they also let us support vulnerable Jews in calmer times,” Anna explained.
JDC’s mission extends beyond Jewish communities through its GRID program, which leverages Israeli technology for global disaster relief, exemplifying the value of Tikkun Olam—repairing the world.
Whether responding to immediate needs in Ukraine or fostering thriving communities like Budapest, JDC’s mission is unwavering: saving Jewish lives and reviving Jewish life.
It’s not only our privilege, but our duty to ensure every Jew and Jewish community has the resources to live in safety and dignity,” Roni emphasized.
Your ongoing support of the Federation makes this lifesaving work possible. Thank you for being a vital part of this impactful global network.
During Black History Month, we celebrate and commemorate the history of the African diaspora. In the United States, we often think of this month through the lens of African Americans, but it’s important to recognize much of Black History does not involve the U.S. Indeed, there are Black Jews all over the world, and their history is our history. One of the largest and most well-known Black Jewish communities is from Ethiopia, and Federation supports initiatives that help Ethiopian Jews and amplify their stories. 
Winter is quickly approaching in Ukraine, and sadly, the war continues. In recent weeks, critical infrastructure that provides power and water throughout the country has been destroyed. Meanwhile, refugees continue to flee the region. As it gets colder, their situation will be more dire than ever. 
Nothing says “fall” like sitting under your sukkah with your loved ones and enjoying a beautiful evening. Last week, Federation celebrated Sukkot in a variety of ways, including through Gather Grants and our social media sukkah competition!
