Erica G. Starrfield of Pepper Pike has been awarded the 2015 Bennett and Donna Yanowitz Leadership Award by the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. The award recognizes and honors an outstanding young individual who has demonstrated commitment, involvement, and leadership within Cleveland’s Jewish community. Starrfield was presented the award at the Federation’s Board meeting on February 29.

CLEVELAND – 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 20 – June 30, 2016. Complete the Interest Form now.

CLEVELAND – The Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Young Leadership Division (YLD) announces the appointment of Rachel Weinberg as Board Chair, Barry Guttman as Vice Chair, and 11 new members to join its board.

The success of community development initiatives has long been measured at the end of a program, through outcomes and statistics. But a new tool being piloted in five Cleveland neighborhoods looks to evaluate progress along the way.

CLEVELAND – Peter D. Hart, renowned pollster and noted analyst, will join delegates from the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Mission to Washington, D.C. for an exclusive dinner on April 18, 2016. Hart will kick off the annual Mission with “2016 Elections: Trends and Implications.”

Gross Schechter Day School is pleased to announce that Sheri Gross will join the faculty in a newly-created position, Director of Creative Programs, for the 2016-2017 academic year. In her new role, Sheri will be working in collaboration with the faculty and staff to develop new, creative Jewish and arts programming school-wide that spans the areas of tefillah (prayer), Torah study, Jewish holidays, rituals and more. Her role will be central in enhancing the vibrancy of Jewish life in our Schechter community. Students will also have the opportunity to work with Sheri on presentation skills, particularly in association with class programs and public speaking. Sheri will be a creative consultant for some of our existing community programs, such as Monday Fun Day, and will help develop new programming. Sheri will be working with all students, from the Early Childhood Program through Eighth Grade.

CLEVELAND – Established, emerging and amateur photographers are invited to submit photos that capture the people and places of Beit Shean, Cleveland’s sister city in Israel. Winning submissions will be featured in an upcoming exhibit hosted by the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and the Mandel Jewish Community Center. The exhibit, “Hidden Gems” is part of a series of events celebrating the 20th anniversary of Cleveland and Beit Shean’s partnership.

CLEVELAND – Jewish Clevelanders over 50 were invited to make an IMPACT! with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s new volunteer initiative for Baby Boomers. 400+ community members celebrated at the “Making an IMPACT! Launch Event” on January 7, 2016.