The Jewish Federation of Cleveland will host two professionals from Roots-Shorashim-Judur, a network of Israelis and Palestinians working together to make changes in an effort to end the ongoing struggle between the two sides. Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger, Roots Co-Founder, and Shadi Abu Awwad, Roots Palestinian Youth Director, will discuss “Sharing Perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian Relationship” at the 72nd Annual Meeting of the Community Relations Committee (CRC) and Sidney Z. Vincent Memorial Lecture.

We hope you'll join us at some of our upcoming Federation events this month. There's something for everyone! To learn more or register, simply click on the links corresponding to the event you're interested in attending.

Find out how Marv Gisser is making an IMPACT! by volunteering.

Coaching Circles, a leadership development program, offers women a supportive and motivating environment to connect through meaningful conversations and peer coaching. Coaching Circles was created to give participants an opportunity to work with seasoned lay leaders to help enhance their skills and talents. This program has already enabled 108 women to establish new relationships, develop in an area that is a current challenge related to a career or community volunteerism, and learn about the Federation.

I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit Israel with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland where I attended the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) General Assembly in Tel Aviv, along with the Israel at 70 Mission that took a deep dive in more remote communities.

We welcome all the women who will be leading our strong, vibrant community in the coming year and thank you to all of our outgoing chairs for their dedication.

In the weeks leading up to his Dec. 31 retirement, Jewish Federation of Cleveland President Stephen H. Hoffman’s office appeared ready for an impromptu meeting. Photos and gifts adorned with plaques engraved with names of organizations he’s worked with were still strewn around the room. Unlike others who may be preparing to vacate their office, not one cardboard box sat waiting to be filled.

Like most college freshmen, Alejandra Fishman arrived on the campus of Kent State University feeling equal parts excited and nervous. The native of Puerto Rico chose Kent State University to study at the Shannon Rodgers and Jerry Silverman School of Fashion Design and Merchandising. Moving to Northeast Ohio for college was a change for her, but it felt like home immediately after stepping on campus.