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ISRAEL UPDATE:

We are standing with Israel following the loss of innocent lives after Iranian attacks on civilian communities this past week.

Federation is closely monitoring the situation on the ground. Please watch this video from Renee Kutner explaining our current plans for mobilization and how you can help.

Security and support for Israel are two of Federation’s core priorities. Your donations power this work—year-round, in moments of calm and in times of crisis.

To make a pledge now, please follow the instructions on this page, and make your subject line “2026 Urgency Campaign Pledge”.

We’re here. We’re ready. We’re united. Am Yisrael Chai.

In early June, 26 participants from the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta’s Young Leadership Division (YLD) embarked on an unforgettable mission to Havana, Cuba—a journey that blended immersive cultural experiences, meaningful service, and deep engagement with the island’s small but vibrant Jewish community. 

Cuba is home to approximately 700 Jews, many of them elderly and in need of support. Since the 1990s, when religious expression was once again permitted after decades of suppression following the 1959 Cuban Revolution, Jewish life on the island has slowly reemerged—with help from the global Jewish community and organizations like the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). Through Federation’s partnership with JDC, Atlanta’s young leaders had the chance to witness this powerful story of revival firsthand. 

Throughout the five-day mission, participants explored Havana’s rich history—visiting Revolution Square, the Ernest Hemingway estate, the Cuban Wing of the Fine Arts Museum, and Old Havana’s winding streets. But the heart of the journey was found in their interactions with Cuba’s Jewish community. 

The group visited key Jewish sites including the historic Beth Shalom Synagogue (known locally as the Patronato), the Orthodox Adath Israel Synagogue, and the Sephardic Center. At each stop, they met with devoted leaders who carry the legacy of Jewish Cuba forward—people like Hella Eskenazi Flores, Vice President of the Jewish community, and Yakob Berezniak Hernandez, the community’s sole shohet and cantor. 

One of the mission’s most emotional moments came during a service project at Havana’s Jewish cemetery. As the group helped clean gravestones and restore pathways, participant Nathan Kaller embarked on a personal quest. “My parents are both Cuban Jews who immigrated to America in the early 1960s,” he shared. “I always identified as a ‘Jewban’ but didn’t know what that really meant or what Jewish life in Cuba looked like.” 

After a long search in the Ashkenazi section, the group was surprised to find Nathan’s great-grandfather’s grave in the Sephardic section. Together, they lit a yartzeit candle and recited Kaddish. “No one had been to that site in nearly 60 years,” Nathan said. “To learn that I may be Sephardic raises so many new questions. This trip gave me more than I imagined—it connected me to my past in a way I never thought possible.” 

Service was central to the mission. Participants served Shabbat dinner at the Patronato synagogue, brought sewing supplies for a senior-led project at the Sephardic Center, and delivered donations that would benefit families across the community. They also took salsa lessons, shared meals with local young adults, and celebrated Havdalah under the Havana skyline. 

“I wanted to meet other people my age who value the same things I do—Israel, Jewish continuity, friendship, and tzedakah,” said participant Dylan Rice. “Despite Cuba’s many challenges, this community still creates beauty and meaning. I’m going to be taking that back with me.” 

Becca Langfelder, Director of the Young Leadership Division, reflected on the journey: “It was inspiring to witness our group connect deeply with the people, history, and beauty of Cuba. We arrived with open hearts and suitcases full of donations, united by one mission: to extend a helping hand and strengthen our bond with the Cuban Jewish community in every way we could.” 

This mission wasn’t just a trip—it was an experience rooted in Jewish values: tzedakah (charity), kehilla (community), and neshama (soul). Young adults came to learn, give, and connect—and left with a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of a global Jewish family. 

Click here to see the highlight reel from the Cuba trip.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is proud to announce the establishment of a new $1.5 million endowment: The Bunzl Wilner Fund for Disability Inclusion for Jewish Life. Created through the generosity of The Bunzl Foundation and Suzy Wilner and her daughter, Anna Wilner, this fund marks a transformational investment in inclusion—supporting Federation’s JAccess initiative and ensuring that Jewish life in Atlanta is welcoming and accessible to individuals with disabilities.

“This is more than just a generous gift—it’s a legacy,” said Marsha Hurwitz, Senior Major Gifts Officer at Federation. “By creating a permanent endowment, the Bunzl/Wilner families are ensuring their values will shape Jewish Atlanta for generations, while also witnessing the impact of their giving today.”

Housed within the Atlanta Jewish Foundation, the new fund will provide sustained annual support for JAccess beginning in December 2025. These resources will fuel long-term efforts to remove barriers to participation across Jewish communal life.

 “Our Jewish community has been advocating for decades to be more inclusive, so everyone feels welcomed.  We see our fund as a way to deepen and expand these initiatives,” said Suzy Wilner.

“Jewish life thrives on belonging,” said Amy Murphy, Director of JAccess. “But for many individuals with disabilities, full participation still isn’t a given. This endowment gives us the foundation to change that—not just for today, but for every stage of life, for every generation.”

The Bunzl Wilner Fund will support:

• Training programs to equip Jewish professionals with inclusive best practices
• Toolkits and curricula to help organizations adopt meaningful accessibility standards
• Ongoing consultation and peer mentorship from the JAccess team
• Grants to Jewish institutions to improve physical access and pilot inclusive programming

Amy pointed to a recent pilot with Marcus Autism Center and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta as an example: “We trained early childhood educators and provided individualized coaching. Now we’ll expand that model to more schools and offer in-person classroom support—tailored to each community’s needs. This is how systemic change takes root.”

Importantly, the fund supports inclusion across the lifespan. “Inclusion isn’t just for one stage of life,” Amy said. “Whether it’s a preschooler starting their Jewish journey or a Holocaust survivor aging with a new disability, the fund promotes inclusion from the earliest stages of life, helping to ensure that as people grow and transition through different life stages, inclusion becomes a natural and expected part of every experience. This fund helps us build a community where no one is left behind, at any age.”

The data estimates there are 28,000 Jewish households in Atlanta that include someone with a disability, this gift underscores the importance of growing the Federation’s JAccess initiatives. “Additionally, the Wilners’ decision to create an endowment sends a powerful message,” said Marsha. “It says: you matter what, you belong, and this community is stronger because you are a meaningful part of it.”

It also highlights the unique value of endowment giving. “An endowment is one of the most meaningful ways to give,” Marsha added. “You get to see the impact of your philanthropy now, while knowing your values and vision will live on for generations. Suzy and Anna are setting a remarkable example we hope others will consider.”

Amy summed it up: “This gift makes it possible for every Jewish child to have a bar or bat mitzvah, attend preschool or camp with the right support, and grow into adulthood knowing they belong. That’s the world we’re building—and this fund helps make it real.”

Jewish education is the heart of our community—and it happens in more places than you might think. Across metro Atlanta, a diverse network of synagogues and Jewish organizations offers Supplemental Jewish Education programs that bring Jewish learning to life for children and teens. These part-time programs—supported by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta’s JLearn initiative—create meaningful Jewish experiences that fit today’s families and schedules.

And at the center of it all? Passionate educators who help the next generation connect to Jewish identity, values, and tradition.

“We believe everyone has something valuable to contribute to the Jewish educational journey—whether they’re seasoned teachers or stepping into the classroom for the first time,” says Rabbi Elana Perry, VP of Jewish Education at Federation.

These opportunities span from Pre-K through high school and exist in nearly every corner of the city. Whether it’s teaching weekly classes, facilitating holiday programs, or building relationships through storytelling and music, there’s a role for anyone looking to make a difference.

Teaching supplemental Jewish education is more than a part-time job—it’s a path to community, purpose, and personal growth. Educators often report that the experience deepens their own Jewish identity while helping others build theirs.

“It’s not just about teaching prayers or holidays—it’s about forming relationships that nurture Jewish identity and community,” Perry explains. “Teachers become mentors, guides, and trusted adult figures in the lives of their students.”

Federation’s support of supplemental Jewish education is part of a larger, unwavering commitment to lifelong Jewish learning. Through its JLearn initiative, Federation strengthens every stage of Jewish education—from early childhood and day schools to Israel experiences and adult learning. By investing in educators and programs that meet families where they are, Federation ensures that Jewish learning remains accessible, inclusive, and relevant in every chapter of life.

“Teaching in a supplemental Jewish education program is ideal for people from all walks of life – retirees, working professionals, parents – anyone who wants to engage with Jewish values and give back in a meaningful way. Schedules are flexible, positions are paid, and you’ll become part of a supportive network of educators dedicated to building a stronger Jewish future.

“If you’ve ever thought about giving back, this is the moment. Our children are waiting for someone just like you,” Perry encourages.

Whether you’re reconnecting with your own Jewish learning or exploring a new way to make an impact, teaching supplemental Jewish education is a powerful way to be part of something bigger.

Not sure where to start? Rabbi Perry is here to help you find your perfect fit—whether you’re looking for a program close to home, specific hours, a Hebrew-speaking environment, or something that aligns with your personal Jewish journey. Click here to see open teaching roles, or reach out to Rabbi Elana Perry at eperry@jewishatlanta.org to explore the opportunities waiting for you.

When Alyssa Thompson went into labor with her second child, she found herself driving solo to the hospital. Her husband stayed home with their daughter, waiting for out-of-town family to arrive. 

That moment made one thing abundantly clear: they needed community. 

Alyssa turned to a trusted Jewish parenting group online and asked for recommendations. She was quickly connected to PJ Library, then to Brookhaven PJ Connector Erin Schauder, and ultimately, to JBaby. 

“Erin has kind of been my guide through all of this. She put me in touch with the JBaby group. I joined that and immediately felt like I had found my people. The moms were so welcoming but also so vulnerable, and it’s so hard to find friendships like that these days.” 

Alyssa first signed up for the JBaby Newborn Group, then the JBaby Small Group series in her neighborhood —and never looked back.  

“It really gave me that sense of community that I didn’t know I had been missing since being here in Atlanta.” 

Led by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, JBaby provides expecting and new parents with a nurturing, Jewish-rooted space to learn, share, and connect. 

“JBaby sessions are a warm blend of support, laughter, and meaningful connection,” says Shira Hahn, JBaby Director. “We bring in trusted experts to support new parents through the early stages, while creating space for families to build lasting relationships. There’s something especially powerful about navigating this tender season of life with other parents in the Jewish community.” 

Alyssa’s group heard from a postpartum psychologist, a newborn sleep and feeding expert, and even took part in a baby music class. For Alyssa, the sessions offered both wisdom and real-time solutions. 

“My son was having issues with reflux at the time. The sleep and the feeding expert suggested changing formulas and whatever formula she suggested cleared up our problems immediately.” 

More than parenting support, JBaby reawakened Alyssa’s connection to Jewish life. Her family joined a synagogue, started celebrating Shabbat weekly, and leaned into Jewish traditions. 

“My husband and I didn’t have any Seder plans. I texted [my JBaby friends] ‘Does anyone want to come over for Passover Seder this year?’ Erin found us a Seder home.” 

And for parents who already have children, JBaby offers just as much value. 

“Even if you didn’t do it with your first kids, like me. It’s kind of like a built-in little playgroup. You end up staying in touch with the people. And the specialists were really helpful.” 

What started as a search for a mommy-and-me group became a transformative experience. 

“I feel like I’ve made lifelong friends from it. I honestly want to have another baby so I can do JBaby again.” 

Today, Alyssa continues to participate in PJ Library events and enjoys a growing circle of friends formed through JBaby. Her family life is richer, more connected, and more rooted in Jewish tradition. 

“It kind of unintentionally reignited my Jewish connection. I actually did it just to have the newborn mom support. Since then we’ve become members of a synagogue, we’ve been doing Shabbat and lighting candles.” 

Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, JBaby offers something special—support, education, and most importantly, belonging. 

Just last year, Atlanta welcomed wheelchair tennis star Guy Sasson for a community event few will forget. Last week, the Israeli athlete returned to the global stage with a stunning double victory at the 2025 French Open: a win in men’s doubles alongside world #1 Niels Vink, followed by a hard-fought singles title against Vink himself.

In an emotional moment, Guy dedicated his singles title to Yoav Raver z”l, a soldier killed in Gaza: “Today I received a message that the son of our friends was killed in Gaza, Yoav Raver z”l, so I dedicate this to him. Am Yisrael Chai!”

Guy’s story is one of remarkable resilience. After a ski accident in 2015 left him paralyzed, he discovered wheelchair tennis at the Israel ParaSport Center in Ramat Gan. Within three years, he was competing in the Tokyo Paralympics. By 2024, he had climbed to third in the world for quad singles. His journey—like so many others—was shaped by a Center that’s changing lives through sport.

Founded in 1960, the Israel ParaSport Center is a world-renowned home for adaptive athletics, serving over 3,400 people annually and sending dozens of athletes to compete in tournaments all around the world, including the Paralympics. From wheelchair basketball to hydrotherapy, the Center strengthens bodies, minds, and spirits, and transforms the narrative around disability. Asael Shabo, Center Coach, Athlete, and Terror Survivor shared: “What the Center does best is to give hope. Hope to kids and adults with disabilities and their families to find new friends, to find their way… and most importantly to believe in themselves again.”

Michelle Leven, Vice President of the ParaSport Center, has seen its impact up close. Her family’s connection spans three generations. “My son Jeremy first visited the Center on his eighth-grade trip to Israel,” she recalls. “He had no idea his grandfather Mike Leven had been involved. He just came home and said, ‘Mom, I love this place.’” That serendipitous discovery ignited a family legacy of support. Jeremy later returned to intern at the Center during Birthright, and Michelle became deeply involved with the American Friends organization. “There’s something incredibly hopeful when you walk into the Center,” Michelle says. “Everyone starts in the pool. Then they explore new sports – wheelchair tennis, swimming, archery, martial arts. These kids are resilient. They find a home here.”

Craig Kornblum, current board member and VP of Fundraising, shared his own connection to the Center: “From the first time I visited in 2012, it’s held a special place in my heart. Watching my son Justin and his friends play wheelchair basketball with kids who actually needed the chairs is a memory I’ll never forget. But the most impactful part has been the friendships I’ve made with the athletes, staff, and volunteers. I visit every time I’m in Israel.”

Since October 7th, the Center has expanded its mission. Through the SHESEK program, it now provides sports-based trauma recovery for Nova Festival survivors, displaced families, and wounded soldiers – reaching over 80 survivors weekly and operating in 40 remote locations. “This isn’t just about sports and medals,” Michelle says. “It’s about healing a nation.”

In a video message to the Parasport Center community, with his new trophy by his side, Guy Sasson shared, “I couldn’t have done it without you. I’m so proud to represent our country, our people, and our precious Sport Center that is doing so much for so many people. I dedicate this trophy to the safe return of all hostages, and to all the Jewish people all over the world. Thank you again for your support. Am Yisrael Chai!”

The Atlanta Jewish community’s support for the Center is stronger than ever. “The Adaptive Fitness Center literally has a sign that says ‘Given by the Atlanta Community,’” Michelle says with pride. “People in Atlanta know this place now. We’ve built something beautiful.”

Atlanta Jewish Foundation DAF (donor-advised fund) holders can support the Israel Parasport Center through their donor portal.

Federation’s 119th Annual Meeting was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of our collective achievements and a look toward an even brighter future. 

The evening honored outgoing Board Chair Beth Arogeti for her visionary leadership, as she passes the baton to incoming Chair Debbie Kuniansky.  

“This evening is a celebration of our shared commitment to Jewish life, and a reminder that the future we’re building is only possible because of the dedication of this community,” said Beth Arogeti. 

It also recognized exceptional community members with this year’s awards: 

• Abe Schwartz Young Leadership Award: David Kulp and Mark & Luisa Kaplan 

• Gerald H. Cohen Community Development Award: Justin Victor 

• Sylvia Newman Memorial Teacher of the Year Award: Seday Abraham and Lisa Vitello 

• Max & Mary London People Power Award: Erin Stieglitz, Bagel Rescue 

• Marilyn Shubin Professional Staff Development Award: Pam Cohen, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and Spencer Perdeck, OneTable
  
• Tikkun Olam/Community Impact Award: Daniel Dorfman, Larry Dorfman & Scott Jacobsen of FreeRent 

A significant highlight of the night was the Lifetime of Achievement Award presentation to Mike Leven, founder of Jewish Future Promise, whose generosity and commitment have profoundly shaped our community. 

Federation President and CEO Renee Kutner reflected on the year’s accomplishments, emphasizing that, “It’s heartwarming and fills me with pride to see not just what great leadership we have in our community but also the countless lives we’ve impacted, together.” 

This impact is seen across our five core impact areas, which have only expanded over the years. This includes: 

• Caring for Those in Need: 28,000+ individuals received food through JF&CS, nearly 200 Holocaust survivors received 2,400 meals, and over 3,000 people were supported through stability programs. 

• Jewish Education: $3.4M was invested in youth education, 800+ children received camp scholarships, and $70,000 supported professional development for educators. 

• Israel & Jews Worldwide: Over $12M was raised for Israel after October 7th, we funded elder care for 3,500+ individuals in Belarus, and our 8 local Schoenbaum Shinshinim reached 2,000+ Atlantans monthly. 

• Jewish Engagement: 5,000 PJ Library books were distributed, 1,100+ Gather Grants were awarded, and in FY25, more than 2,100 young adults were engaged through Federation and our partners, strengthening Jewish life and community.

• Safety & Security: $1.5M was invested through LiveSecure, enabling 871 trainings and consultations, with $250,000 directed to institutions serving young children. 

The evening also included the approval of the FY26 Board of Trustees slate, laying the groundwork for continued growth and impact. 

Together, we’re not just reflecting; we’re building. Federation’s 119th Annual Meeting marked the close of a remarkable year and the launch of a bold new chapter for Jewish Atlanta.  

Click here to see more photos from the event.

On Thursday, May 15th, a group of Federation supporters gathered in Lisa Brill’s home for the inaugural Tea for Thought, a thoughtfully curated conversation centered on the future of Jewish education in our community.  

Marsha Hurwitz, Federation’s Senior Major Gifts Officer, in partnership with Angelena May, Federation’s Early Childhood Jewish Education Manager, wanted to bring together those who have long demonstrated a deep commitment to education — either as educators themselves or as philanthropic leaders — for an intimate, engaging exchange.   

That vision evolved into Tea for Thought, a gathering designed to highlight Federation’s growing initiatives in Jewish education and to create a network of advocates who could amplify its message throughout the community.  

Central to the event was guest speaker Orna Siegel, Executive Director of the ElevatEd initiative — a national program aimed at strengthening the pipeline of qualified early childhood educators in Jewish preschools. ElevatEd, which is jointly funded by national partners and our local Federation, focuses on recruiting, training, mentoring, and retaining preschool teachers. Orna’s presentation illuminated the urgent need for skilled early childhood educators who understand both child development and Jewish culture — a combination that’s increasingly difficult to find.  

ElevatEd supports teachers through ongoing virtual professional development in areas like classroom management, Jewish holidays, and child development. It also trains directors, many of whom come to their roles with strong classroom leadership but limited experience in budgeting, marketing, and HR, with the business and administrative skills needed to run a school effectively. Orna emphasized that a child’s earliest Jewish experiences — often in preschool — are foundational to long-term Jewish identity formation, and that supporting teachers in these settings is a crucial investment in our community’s future.  

The event opened with remarks from Rabbi Elana Perry, VP of Jewish Education at Federation, who framed the conversation within Federation’s broader commitment to Jewish learning. She outlined how, just a few years ago, she was the only staff member focused on Jewish education at Federation. Today, the team has expanded to include professionals focused on day schools and early childhood education, as well as supplemental Jewish education programs (a.k.a. religious schools) and Israel education programs.  

Together, they are helping to improve the quality of Jewish education across our community and are reaching more families, educators, and institutions than ever before.  

Brief remarks followed from Shelley Fogelson, Manager of Day School Partnerships, about the ongoing work in day schools, including professional development initiatives, community-building among counselors and educators, and plans to launch additional professional learning communities in the coming year.    

According to Etta Raye Hirsch, a teacher by training and a member of the Tea for Thought Host Committee, “this gathering was eye-opening. Many of us were surprised to learn of the challenges in Jewish Atlanta and around the country in securing qualified teachers for our Jewish preschools.  I along with others were thrilled to learn how our Federation is supporting our Jewish preschools and day schools. I look forward to learning more about Federation’s efforts with our Jewish education initiatives.”    

Other Host Committee Members included Joanne Birnbrey,  Lisa Brill, Elaine Blumenthal, Beth Brown, Carol Cooper, Ann Davis, Viki Freeman, Lynne Halpern, Lois Kuniansky, and Michelle Stribling.  

Tea for Thought was envisioned as the first in a potential series — and by all accounts, its blend of hospitality, insight, and purpose struck a powerful chord. 

Stay tuned for future gatherings as we continue to foster thoughtful conversations around our shared commitment to Jewish education.  

This past week, beginning with a meaningful Shavuot and culminating in a moving 119th Annual Meeting, reflected the shared values of our community and an inspiring commitment to future generations.  

Last night we celebrated Mike Leven, recipient of this year’s Lifetime of Achievement Award. A visionary in both business and philanthropy, Mike founded the Jewish Future Promise, championing the long-term preservation of Jewish values. His dedication to legacy is a testament to the power of purposeful giving and enduring impact — a message that deeply resonated in the spiritual atmosphere of Shavuot.  

As Rabbi Elana Perry, Vice President of Jewish Education at the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, beautifully reminded us: “Shavuot is the Jewish holiday that celebrates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Yet, receiving Torah is not just about a moment of revelation in our ancient past — it’s an ongoing responsibility. It’s about bringing Torah to life in every generation.”  

Building a meaningful Jewish legacy isn’t measured only in dollars. It’s measured in the wisdom, values, and traditions we pass down to our children and grandchildren.  

That spirit of generational connection came to life at Grow a Legacy, Atlanta Jewish Foundation’s signature event celebrating the power and promise of legacy giving. Over 200 donors, families, and community leaders gathered to honor the matriarchs who have pledged to secure the future of Jewish Atlanta. The evening featured a heartfelt conversation between Candy Berman, Etta Raye Hirsch, Cathy Selig, and Raya Zalik — moderated by Frances Bunzl Chief Advancement Officer Lindsay Kopecky.  

Watch the full program here.  

“For me, philanthropy is not how you give, it’s how you live,” said honoree Candy Berman. “It’s about expressing yourself. It’s about making your voice heard. It’s the friends you have, the things you care about, and the passions you choose to support.” The panelists showed us that generosity is rooted in joy and a hopeful vision for the future. “I just hope that 100 years from now, you can say I taught by example,” Etta Raye Hirsch shared. “Give not because it’s just an obligation — it’s an honor. And do it with joy.”  

Start Building Your Legacy  

Legacy giving — especially through endowments — embodies this philosophy. Unlike annual giving, which supports current needs, an endowment is a long-term charitable investment. The principal stays intact, while a portion of its earnings is distributed each year to sustain the organizations, programs, and values you care about most. It’s a strategic way to ensure stability, growth, and impact for generations to come.  

At Atlanta Jewish Foundation, we help donors create endowments that strengthen the Jewish community — from synagogues and schools to social services and Israel-focused initiatives. By establishing or contributing to an endowment, you create a lasting legacy that reflects your values and shapes the future.  

Receiving the Torah is a call to action — a commitment to climb the mountain and carry our sacred values forward. Let’s ensure that the story of Jewish Atlanta continues to be written with meaning, joy, and hope.  

Ready to explore legacy giving? Contact Lindsay Kopecky at lkopecky@jewishatlanta.org  

This past month, the Jewish Atlanta Merit Scholarship (JAMS), a bold new initiative powered by the Zalik Foundation, honored 11 outstanding teens for their academic achievements, leadership, and deep connection to Jewish life. On Sunday, May 18, scholarship recipients and their families gathered for the first-ever JAMS Celebration Dinner—a night of pride, purpose, and community—hosted at The Dupree in Sandy Springs. 

The JAMS program was created with a simple but powerful idea: to open doors to Jewish high school for students who embody both excellence and strong Jewish identity but may not have previously considered a Jewish high school experience. 

 “We have exceptional Jewish high schools in our community,” said Amanda Abrams, Executive Director of the Zalik Foundation. “JAMS was created as an invitation to explore these incredible institutions by providing a unique opportunity that recognizes a group of extraordinary students in our community.” 

The scholarship selection process was rigorous and meaningful. After a community-wide nomination and application phase—including essays about Jewish identity and personal growth—19 finalists were invited to virtual interviews. From there, 11 students were selected for the inaugural cohort. Each brought a unique story, talent, or perspective: one shared a cherished basketball gifted by a grandparent, another played the piano, and one spoke powerfully about finding Jewish pride in the face of antisemitism. 

 The May 18 dinner brought JAMS scholarship recipients and their families together for an evening of celebration and connection. It was a chance for the teens to meet one another and to honor the winners. Throughout the evening, both students and parents reflected on what the scholarship represents—to them personally and to the broader Jewish community. 

 “One of the things that struck me most,” said Amanda, “was hearing from parents how much confidence this award gave their kids. In a world where social media and peer pressure can erode self-worth, this recognition from the Jewish community sent a powerful message: ‘We see your accomplishments. We believe in you. You’re a leader.’” 

Students will begin attending either the Weber School or Atlanta Jewish Academy this fall, with nine enrolled at Weber and two at AJA. Some are entering freshmen, while others are transferring into 10th grade. All will do so not only with financial support, but with knowledge their Jewish community believes in them. 

Federation President & CEO Renee Kutner, who also spoke at the dinner, emphasized the lasting value of Jewish education. “Jewish high school education plays a vital role in shaping the leaders who will carry our community into the future. We’re thrilled that JAMS is attracting such exceptional students—each one a testament to the strength, excellence, and promise of our Jewish high school system here in Atlanta.” 

The inaugural JAMS cohort represents a promise kept: to nurture talent, uplift values, and build a stronger Jewish future from the inside out. 

Summer 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most impactful yet for Jewish campers across Greater Atlanta—and Federation is at the heart of it all. 

Through JCamping, JAccess, and targeted investments from Federation’s Emergency Response Fund, more children are experiencing the joy of Jewish overnight camp, campers of all abilities are being included like never before, and Israeli children affected by the trauma of war are finding comfort and connection in Atlanta’s Jewish overnight camp communities. 

“We’re not just helping kids get to camp through financial support—we’re making sure that camp is meaningful, inclusive, and rooted in Jewish values,” said Leah Stinson, Federation’s JCamping Manager. 

This year, Federation raised $1.55 million to support Jewish overnight camping. These funds provided 301 One Happy Camper (first year camper) incentive grants, 460 need-based scholarships, and 28 Russian-speaking Jewish camper incentive grants, ensuring that financial barriers didn’t stand in the way of a Jewish overnight summer camp experience. 

“We increased our average scholarship to keep pace with rising camp costs and were able to provide assistance to every family who needed support,” said Leah. 

Federation, in partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Camp, also helped facilitate scholarships for campers from small Jewish communities across the state of Georgia—including Savannah, Augusta, and Macon—ensuring that kids from every corner of the state could connect with Jewish life through overnight camp. 

In the wake of October 7, Federation activated its Emergency Response Fund, a pool of dollars set aside for urgent and strategic community needs. One grant supported a regional overnight camp in hosting approximately 20 Israeli campers this summer, offering them a safe, joyful, and healing environment. 

“These campers have endured so much,” said Annie Garrett, Federation’s VP of Planning. “Bringing them here is not only exciting for them, but also an opportunity for our local campers to build real, lasting connections with Israeli peers.” 

The Response Fund also helped support displaced Israeli families living temporarily in Atlanta by covering the cost of Jewish camp for their children and even assisted a regional camp in rebuilding security infrastructure damaged by a recent hurricane. 

“Our goal is always to respond to what’s needed most in the moment,” said Annie. “And this summer, the needs were clear.” 

Through Federation’s JAccess initiative, Federation is partnering with Atlanta’s regional Jewish overnight camps to enhance accessibility and inclusion. This year, these camps received grant funding to create sensory spaces, add adaptive equipment, and make physical and programmatic accommodations for campers with disabilities. 

Federation also supported on-site training for camp staff, coordinated by Lindsey Flax, JAccess Training Coordinator, in partnership with inclusion experts. These sessions are helping camps not just accommodate—but truly embrace—neurodivergent campers and those with support needs.

“This work is about more than equipment or training,” said Leah. “It’s about building a culture of belonging.” 

From funding camper scholarships to fostering Israeli-American relationships and creating inclusive environments for all, Federation is transforming what Jewish summer camp looks and feels like in 2025. 

“This is what it means to be a partner, not just a funder,” said Annie. “We’re working hand in hand with our camps, with our community, and with our global partners to ensure every child has access to a summer they’ll never forget.” 

By Rabbi Elana Perry, Vice President of Jewish Education 

Shavuot is the Jewish holiday that celebrates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Yet, receiving Torah is not just about a moment of revelation in our ancient past—it’s an ongoing responsibility. It’s about bringing Torah to life in every generation. 

Shavuot reminds us that learning is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. Each year, as we symbolically stand again at Mount Sinai, we are invited to recommit ourselves to the pursuit of knowledge, meaning, and connection—for ourselves and for our entire community. 

At JLearn, Jewish Federation’s Education Initiative, that commitment is at the heart of everything we do. JLearn supports and cultivates opportunities for all kinds of learners to explore Jewish texts, ideas, and traditions in ways that are both relevant and inspiring. 

We nurture curiosity by investing in creative, experiential approaches that make Jewish learning joyful and memorable—from preschool through high school. Whether it’s in congregations, early childhood programs, or Jewish day schools, our learners engage through storytelling, music, hands-on exploration, social action, drama, science, and play. These moments plant seeds of identity and connection that can last a lifetime. 

But none of this is possible without passionate, skilled Jewish educators. That’s why JLearn is also deeply committed to nurturing teachers through professional development, mentorship, and community support. By investing in our educators, we ensure that the next generation of learners will be guided by voices that are wise, innovative, and empowered. 

This Shavuot, as we celebrate the giving of the Torah, we also celebrate the many ways we continue to receive it—through collaboration, creativity, and commitment to bringing Jewish learning to life for every age and stage. 

Learn About JLearn