We have a sense of belonging here in Cleveland, at Federation, and around the world.

For more than 20 years, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland has been a partner in helping to build Jewish life in St. Petersburg, Russia, Cleveland’s sister city. Federation’s Overseas Connections Committee (OCC) recently hosted a Capacity Building delegation with all of the directors and associate directors of every major Jewish organization in St. Petersburg.

On the "Men's Mission to Poland and Israel: From Darkness to Light," 14 Jewish Cleveland men are learning about the pre-War centers of Jewish life in Poland, the Holocaust, and the contemporary scene, experiencing meaningful tours of Poland sites, and discovering Israel like they've never seen it before.

Judaism teaches us that all Jews are responsible for one another – Kol Yisrael Aravim Zeh La Zeh. This concept is the basis of the notion that we must take action in order to care for Jews in communities around the world.

Jewish Cleveland IMPACT! Volunteers are spending two weeks in Cleveland's sister city of Beit Shean, Israel, volunteering in the community and immersing themselves in Israeli culture. Check out photos and blogs from their experience below:

My dad is Jewish and my mom is Catholic. I went to Catholic school from Pre-K through 12th grade. We hardly ever went to synagogue growing up. However, I started attending Shabbat services with my dad during high school and began to feel an extra sense of fulfillment.

Here are just a few reasons why we love Birthright – and you should, too!

– Do you know a Jewish Clevelander, ages 22 to 26, who is ready for a travel experience unlike any other? If so, they might be eligible for Birthright Israel, a free 10-day trip to Israel for Cleveland residents from June 18 – June 28, 2017. Learn more at www.ClevelandBirthrightIsrael.com.

Through Masa Israel, a program funded through I-Connect, an initiative of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, young adults like Mara are able to pick their perfect Israel travel experience.

"Israel is my home, but for the next two years I am happy to call Cleveland my home!"