Carla Birnbaum is a passionate Jewish communal professional with over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. She works for the Jewish Federation of Great Atlanta as the Relational Engagement Manager, overseeing the Gather Grants initiative. This role allows her to empower local communities to create meaningful communal Jewish engagement. Carla is a dynamic leader with a history of building relationships and leadership teams within communities and organizations based on collaboration. Her strategic vision combines creative solutions, detailed practical applications, and strong leadership to produce positive and effective results.
Before JFGA, Carla worked at various Atlanta area synagogues and overnight camps, creating and implementing curricula for Preschools, Religious Schools, and families. Carla’s educator and curriculum specialist work has earned professional accolades, including two Solomon Schechter awards for programmatic innovation.
She holds a BA from Oglethorpe University and an MA from Case Western University’s Siegel College of Judaic Studies.
Carla actively engages in several community organizations, including Congregation Gesher L’Torah, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Atlanta Dyslexia Association, and Bosley’s Place. She lives in Atlanta, GA, with her husband, teenage daughters, and rescue dog.
Carla’s leadership style can be defined by three rules: listening more than speaking, not always offering your opinion, and learning something from everyone you meet. “Who is wise? Someone who learns from everyone.” She looks forward to learning from all of you!
